Turkey Soup

INTRODUCTION

Turkey soup is a warm and comforting dish that many people enjoy, especially during colder months. This recipe makes good use of leftover turkey, making it not just delicious but also economical. The rich flavors of the turkey mixed with fresh vegetables and savory herbs create a meal that is both hearty and satisfying. Whether you have turkey left from a holiday feast or you bought turkey just for this soup, it’s easy to prepare and is perfect for feeding a family or bringing to friends.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons to love turkey soup. First, it is a great way to use up leftover turkey, saving you from wasting food. Second, the soup is full of healthy ingredients like vegetables and herbs that add flavor and nutrition. The recipe is simple and easy to follow, even for beginners. You can also customize it to suit your taste by adding your favorite vegetables or different types of pasta. Finally, turkey soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch, and it can be stored for later meals. There is nothing better than enjoying a warm bowl of homemade soup after a long day!

HOW TO MAKE Turkey Soup

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make turkey soup, you will need the following equipment:

• A large pot
• A cutting board
• A sharp knife
• A stirring spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle (optional)
• Serving bowls

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 1/2 cups chopped carrots (3 large)
• 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion (1 medium)
• 1 1/4 cups chopped celery (3 ribs)
• 1 Tbsp minced garlic (3 cloves)
• 8 cups homemade turkey stock or store-bought chicken broth
• 2 tsp minced thyme
• 2 tsp minced rosemary
• 2 tsp minced sage
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
• 2 cups dry rotini pasta or medium egg noodles
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 3 cups leftover cooked turkey, shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 3/4 cup leftover turkey gravy or 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
• 1 1/4 cups frozen petite corn
• 3 Tbsp chopped parsley (or 1 tbsp dried)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped carrots, onion, and celery to the pot. Sauté these vegetables for about 8 to 10 minutes until they are nearly softened.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 1 minute longer. Stir it well to combine the flavors.
4. Pour in the turkey stock (or chicken broth) and add the minced thyme, rosemary, sage, and optional ground nutmeg. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it is simmering, lower the heat just below medium. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Add the pasta of your choice into the pot. Cook until the pasta is tender, which usually takes about 6 to 12 minutes depending on the type of pasta used.
7. Stir in the cooked turkey, frozen petite corn, and optional gravy or heavy cream. Warm this mixture through.
8. Stir in the chopped parsley. For a brighter flavor, you can also optionally add lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice at this point.

HOW TO SERVE Turkey Soup

Turkey soup is best served warm. You can ladle the soup into bowls and offer some fresh bread or crackers on the side. This brings a nice touch to the meal, giving a crunchy contrast to the soft soup. You can sprinkle extra parsley on top for a pop of color and an added layer of flavor. Some people enjoy adding a touch of grated cheese on top for extra richness as well.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Turkey Soup

If you have leftover turkey soup, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The soup will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. To freeze turkey soup, let it cool completely first, then pour it into freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand when it freezes. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it on the stove until it’s warm.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Turkey soup goes great with different types of sides. Here are some ideas:

• Serve with crusty bread or soft dinner rolls for dipping.
• Pair it with a light salad for a balanced meal.
• Enjoy with crackers or breadsticks for some crunch.
• Offer a variety of toppings, like grated cheese, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil.

VARIATIONS

There are many ways to make turkey soup your own. Here are some variations you can try:

• Vegetarian Version: Replace turkey with beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of turkey stock.
• Spicy Turkey Soup: Add some cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a bit of heat.
• Creamy Version: For a richer soup, add a can of coconut milk or more heavy cream for a creamy texture.
• Add Different Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like green beans, peas, or zucchini based on your preference.
• Herb Variations: Use different herbs like oregano or basil to change the flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftover turkey?

Yes, you can use fresh turkey. Just cook it first, then shred or chop it before adding it to the soup.

2. How do I make homemade turkey stock?

You can make turkey stock by boiling turkey bones and scraps with vegetables like onion, celery, and carrots for several hours. Strain the liquid, and you have stock!

3. How can I thicken my turkey soup?

If you want to thicken it, you can add instant potato flakes, cornstarch mixed with water, or simply let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid.

4. Is it okay to reheat turkey soup with cream in it?

Yes, you can reheat it, but be careful not to let it boil after adding cream, as it might separate.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Turkey Soup

This turkey soup is great for making ahead. Prepare everything ahead of time and store the ingredients separately. You can chop the vegetables and keep them in the fridge, and store the stock or broth in another container. On the day you want to serve, simply cook the vegetables, add the stock, and mix in the rest of the ingredients. This way, you’ll save time and enjoy a fresh warm soup without a lot of fuss!

In summary, turkey soup is a delicious and hearty way to use leftover turkey in a done, easy-to-follow recipe. It is not just a meal but an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Enjoy making and sharing this wonderful soup with family and friends!

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