Harvest Turkey Carcass Soup is the perfect way to breathe new life into leftover turkey bones from your holiday feast. Packed with hearty vegetables and fragrant herbs, this soup is both comforting and resourceful.
The star of this dish is the turkey carcass, which provides a rich, savory base for the soup. The water helps extract all those wonderful flavors from the bones. Carrots and potatoes add sweetness and body, while celery and onion contribute depth and aroma. Garlic enhances the overall flavor with a subtle kick. Seasonings like salt, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, and a bay leaf bring everything together with a herbaceous touch. Finally, frozen peas and corn kernels add a pop of color and sweetness, and olive oil aids in sautéing the vegetables to perfection.
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or homemade biscuits. A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette would complement the savory flavors nicely, balancing the meal perfectly.
Start by placing the turkey carcass in a large pot. Add about 12 cups of water, or enough to cover the bones. Bring this to a boil over high heat, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for an hour, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface. This step is crucial for a clear broth.
After an hour, carefully remove the carcass from the pot. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl to catch any stray bones or bits. Set the broth aside while we get started on the veggies.
In the same pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté them gently until they're softened, which should take about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender but not browned.
Add the diced potatoes to the pot along with the strained broth. Season with salt, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, and the bay leaf. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook for another 30 minutes. This is where the flavors really meld together.
Finally, stir in the frozen peas and corn kernels. Cook for an additional 10 minutes until everything is heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve your soup hot, perhaps garnished with some fresh herbs if you have them on hand.
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