Warm Up with Homemade Turkey Soup: A Simple Guide

Using Leftover Turkey Wisely

After a festive feast, there’s often plenty of leftover turkey sitting in the fridge. Instead of letting it go to waste, why not turn that turkey into a delicious and nourishing turkey soup? Making turkey soup from leftover turkey is an easy and rewarding way to savor those flavors long after the holiday celebrations have ended. Plus, soups are generally easy to make and a great way to sneak in some veggies!

Gather Your Ingredients

To whip up a pot of turkey soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 onion, diced

• 2 carrots, sliced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 cups turkey or chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• 1 bay leaf

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home. If you’re low on broth, you can substitute with water – but keep in mind the flavor may be milder.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Turkey Soup

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s dive into the recipe!

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. This step creates a base for your soup and adds a touch of flavor.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Add Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Garlic elevates the aromatic profile of your soup!

4. Stir in Broth and Herbs: Pour in the turkey broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. These herbs will imbue your soup with warmth and depth.

5. Incorporate Turkey: Once the broth is gently bubbling, add the shredded turkey and stir well. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. Season to Taste: Taste your soup and add salt, pepper, or more herbs as desired. If you’re using frozen peas, now’s the time to toss them in too!

7. Finish Up: Remove the bay leaf before serving and garnish each bowl with fresh parsley. Serve hot, and enjoy your comforting turkey soup!

This homemade turkey soup is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to reduce food waste and make the most of your leftovers. So, the next time you have turkey left over from a feast, remember this simple recipe and keep those holiday flavors alive!