Turkey soup is a delightful and hearty dish that transforms leftover turkey into a warm, comforting meal. Traditionally enjoyed after Thanksgiving, this soup can be made year-round, using both fresh and leftover turkey meat.

The beauty of turkey soup lies in its versatility; you can customize it with seasonal vegetables, herbs, and spices to suit your taste.

This recipe will guide you through creating a flavorful turkey soup that showcases the bird’s natural richness.

The combination of tender turkey, vibrant vegetables, and a fragrant broth makes for a nourishing dish perfect for chilly days or as a restorative meal. Whether you’re using up Thanksgiving leftovers or preparing it from scratch, this turkey soup is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 3-4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 medium carrots (sliced)
• 2 celery stalks (sliced)
• 1 medium potato (peeled and diced)
• 1 cup green beans (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 8 cups turkey broth (or chicken broth)
• 3 cups cooked turkey meat (shredded or diced)
• 2-3 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1-2 cups egg noodles or rice (optional)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Juice of 1 lemon (for serving, optional)

How to Make

Sauté the Aromatics:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the Vegetables:

Stir in the sliced carrots, celery, and diced potato. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.

Add the Broth:

Pour in the turkey broth, ensuring the vegetables are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Season the Soup:

Add the shredded or diced turkey meat to the pot, along with the bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.

Simmer the Soup:

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.

Add Green Beans and Corn:

About 10 minutes before the soup is finished, add the green beans and corn. If you’re using noodles or rice, add them at this stage as well, and cook according to package instructions until tender.

Adjust Seasoning:

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Serve:

Ladle the hot turkey soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, if desired.

Enjoy:

Serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the comforting flavors and warm textures of this delicious turkey soup!

Chef’s Note

Using Leftovers: This soup is an excellent way to use leftover turkey from holiday meals. Be sure to include any flavorful bits like skin or gravy for added depth.

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or peas. You can also add legumes like chickpeas or lentils for extra protein and fiber.

Broth Options: For a richer flavor, consider using homemade turkey broth. You can make it by simmering turkey bones with onions, carrots, celery, and spices for a few hours.

Gluten-Free Option: If you want a gluten-free version, skip the noodles or rice, or use gluten-free alternatives. Quinoa or cauliflower rice can be great substitutes.

Storage Tips: Leftover turkey soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if it becomes too thick.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1.5 cups)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg (varies based on broth)
• Calcium: 40mg
• Iron: 2mg

Turkey soup is not only delicious but also provides a good source of protein and essential nutrients, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option for families.

Conclusion

Turkey soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that showcases the best of turkey, whether enjoyed on a chilly day or as a way to use up leftovers. With its savory broth, tender vegetables, and hearty turkey, this soup is a meal that brings people together.

Customize it to your liking, experiment with different vegetables and seasonings, and make it your own. Gather your loved ones, enjoy this hearty soup, and celebrate the warmth and flavors of homemade cooking. Enjoy!

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