Leftover turkey? Don't let it go to waste! Transform your Thanksgiving or Christmas feast remnants into a comforting and flavorful soup. This recipe is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to reduce food waste and enjoy the deliciousness of your turkey for days to come. This recipe is adaptable to your taste and the ingredients you have on hand, so feel free to experiment!
What Kind of Turkey Can I Use for Soup?
You can use leftover roasted turkey, smoked turkey, or even leftover turkey breast from a different meal. The key is to make sure the turkey is cooked thoroughly and has cooled completely before you start preparing the soup. Bone-in turkey adds extra flavor to the broth, but you can certainly use boneless turkey as well.
How Long Does Leftover Turkey Last in the Fridge?
Properly stored leftover turkey should last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Ensure it's tightly wrapped or stored in airtight containers to maintain its freshness and prevent bacterial growth. If you're not planning to use your leftover turkey within that timeframe, consider freezing it for longer storage.
What are the Best Vegetables for Turkey Soup?
The best vegetables for turkey soup are those that hold their shape well during cooking and complement the savory turkey flavor. Classic choices include carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes. You can also add other vegetables such as parsnips, turnips, green beans, or even some leafy greens like spinach or kale towards the end of cooking.
How to Make the Best Leftover Turkey Soup: A Step-by-Step Recipe
This recipe provides a foundation; feel free to adjust it based on your preferences and available ingredients.
Yields: 6-8 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 45-60 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups turkey broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
- 2 cups chopped potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional additions: noodles, rice, dumplings, fresh herbs (parsley, chives)
Instructions:
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the broth and turkey: Pour in the turkey broth and add the shredded turkey, potatoes, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired. Optional additions like noodles or dumplings can be added during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking time.
Can I Freeze Leftover Turkey Soup?
Yes! Leftover turkey soup freezes beautifully. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How Can I Make My Leftover Turkey Soup Thicker?
If your soup is too thin, you can thicken it in several ways:
- Starch: Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) towards the end of cooking.
- Flour: Similar to cornstarch, you can use a roux (a mixture of equal parts butter and flour cooked together) to thicken the soup.
- Mashed Potatoes: Add a couple of tablespoons of mashed potatoes to the soup for a creamy texture.
What Are Some Variations of Leftover Turkey Soup?
The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Here are a few variations:
- Creamy Turkey Soup: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche before serving.
- Spicy Turkey Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Turkey Noodle Soup: Add egg noodles or other pasta during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
Enjoy your delicious and resourceful leftover turkey soup! Remember to adjust the recipe to your liking and make it your own. Happy cooking!
