Korean BBQ Turkey & Pineapple Power Skillet with Zucchini Noodles
Harness Korea's beloved gochujang trend with this explosive sweet-heat combo. Caramelized pineapple chunks temper spicy turkey in a sticky glaze ready in one pan. Benefits: no added sugar, 30-minute prep, and spiralized zucchini keeps carbs balanced.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 jalapeño, minced (seeds removed)
- 3 tbsp gochujang paste
- 2 tbsp coconut aminos
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp minced ginger
- 3 medium zucchinis, spiralized
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (garnish)
Instructions
- Spiralize zucchini using medium blade; set aside.
- Whisk gochujang, coconut aminos, rice vinegar & ginger in bowl.
- Heat sesame oil in large skillet over medium-high. Add turkey; break apart until browned (5 min).
- Add pineapple, bell pepper, jalapeño; sauté 3 minutes until slightly caramelized.
- Pour sauce mixture over turkey; stir until fully coated (1 min).
- Add zucchini noodles; toss gently 2 minutes until just tender (don't overcook).
- Remove from heat; top with green onions & sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately with extra red pepper flakes if desired.
Chef's Note
Boost umami by adding 1 tsp fish sauce to the glaze. For crisp-tender zucchini, squeeze spiralized noodles in paper towel to remove excess moisture before cooking.
Make-Ahead Tips
Store sauce separately up to 3 days. Best served fresh – zucchini releases water when refrigerated.
Substitutions
Pineapple → mango, turkey → chicken, zucchini → cabbage slaw, gochujang → sriracha + 1 tsp honey