Smoked Turkey Rillettes

Step 1

Peel skin from turkey and reserve. Cut turkey in large chunks, discarding cartilage, membrane and bones. Melt fat in a 2- to 3-quart saucepan. Add turkey and skin, bay leaves, thyme and garlic. Add enough stock to barely cover turkey. Bring to a brisk simmer and cook about 1 hour, until most of stock has evaporated (surface will no longer look foamy or bubbly). Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.

Step 2

Discard skin, bay leaf and thyme. Remove turkey with a slotted spoon, draining well. Cut turkey in 1-inch pieces and place in food processor. Add fat from saucepan. Pulse quickly about 15 times until mixture looks finely shredded. Season with pepper; adding salt only if not using smoked turkey. Pack in a crock, cover and refrigerate overnight or longer (it is best after a couple of days). Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before serving with toast rounds and cornichons.