Nothing beats the cozy feeling of a warm bowl of Hearty Turkey Leftover Soup, especially after a big holiday feast. This recipe is perfect for making the most out of your leftover turkey, transforming it into a comforting, delicious meal for the whole family.
The foundation of our soup is the turkey carcass, which provides a depth of flavor that can't be matched by store-bought broths. Water is the base for our broth, absorbing all the goodness from the turkey. Onion, carrots, and celery form the classic trio of aromatics, adding sweetness and depth. Garlic lends a subtle kick, while bay leaves and thyme bring an earthy, herbaceous note. Salt and pepper are crucial for enhancing all the flavors. We repurpose cooked turkey to add hearty protein, and cooked rice or noodles make the soup filling and satisfying. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to each bowl.
This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of warm, crusty bread or a simple side salad. For a touch of indulgence, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top just before serving. A glass of crisp white wine can also complement the meal beautifully.
Begin by placing your turkey carcass into a large pot. Cover it completely with water — about two gallons should do the trick. Add your chopped onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and the minced garlic. For flavor, toss in the bay leaves, and sprinkle in the dried thyme, along with a good pinch of salt and pepper.
Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for about two hours. This is where the magic happens, as the flavors meld together. After the time is up, carefully remove the carcass and strain the broth to get rid of the solids. You're left with a beautiful, clear broth.
Return the strained broth to the pot and stir in the shredded turkey and your choice of cooked rice or noodles. Let it all simmer together for another 20 minutes. This allows the turkey to absorb the broth's flavor, and the rice or noodles to warm through. Just before serving, stir in the fresh parsley and taste to adjust any seasonings.
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