Turkey and Rice Soup
Turkey and rice soup is a comforting, hearty dish that makes the most of leftover turkey, especially after a festive meal like Thanksgiving. Combining tender turkey, nutritious vegetables, and wholesome rice, this soup is a satisfying way to warm up on a chilly day.
The recipe is easy to customize, allowing you to adjust flavors to suit your palate. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Let’s dive into the recipe for this classic, soul-soothing soup.
Ingredients
Serves: 6
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30–40 minutes
Main Ingredients:
2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
1 cup cooked or uncooked rice (white, brown, or wild rice)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups turkey stock (or chicken stock)
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 bay leaf
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins:
1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped
½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a creamy version)
½ teaspoon chili flakes (for a spicy kick)
Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese
How to Make Turkey and Rice Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Dice or shred the cooked turkey into bite-sized pieces.
If using uncooked rice, rinse it under cold water to remove excess starch.
Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Stock and Seasonings
Pour in the turkey stock and stir in the thyme, parsley, and bay leaf.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
If using uncooked rice, add it to the pot and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender. If the rice is pre-cooked, add it later with the turkey to avoid overcooking.
Step 5: Add the Turkey
Stir in the cooked turkey pieces and simmer for another 5–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
If using spinach or kale, add it during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Step 6: Adjust Consistency and Seasoning
If the soup is too thick, add more stock or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls.
Garnish with fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Chef’s Notes
Rice Choices: Wild rice adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture, while brown rice makes the soup heartier. For a quicker option, use white rice or pre-cooked rice.
Leftover Turkey: This recipe is perfect for using leftover roasted turkey. You can also substitute turkey with cooked chicken if needed.
Creamy Version: Stir in heavy cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer texture.
Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, peas, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients.
Freezing Tip: This soup freezes well, but if using uncooked rice, it’s better to cook and add it after thawing to avoid mushy grains.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 280
Protein: 18 grams
Fat: 7 grams
Carbohydrates: 35 grams
Fiber: 4 grams
Vitamin A: 40% of Daily Value (DV)
Vitamin C: 10% of DV
Calcium: 6% of DV
Iron: 8% of DV
This turkey and rice soup is a balanced meal in a bowl, providing lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. It’s low in fat and can be made even healthier by using brown or wild rice and adding extra vegetables.
Conclusion
Turkey and rice soup is a versatile, nutritious, and satisfying recipe that’s perfect for repurposing leftovers into a fresh and flavorful dish. Its comforting taste and heartwarming aroma make it a favorite for family meals or casual gatherings. Customize it to suit your preferences and enjoy a bowl of wholesome goodness. With this recipe, turning simple ingredients into a delightful dish has never been easier!