Turkey Carcass Soup is a fantastic way to utilize the remains of a roast turkey, transforming it into a delicious and nourishing meal. This soup, rich with the flavors of turkey, vegetables, and herbs, offers a comforting warmth, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner, especially after holiday feasts.
Ingredients
- 1 leftover turkey carcass (from a roasted turkey)
- 10 cups water (or enough to cover the carcass)
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chopped potatoes or leftover roasted potatoes
- 1/2 cup barley or rice (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley and lemon wedges for garnish
Directions
- Break down the turkey carcass so it fits into a large pot. Add water to cover the carcass.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 1 hour, skimming off any foam that rises to the top.
- Remove the carcass from the pot. Once cool enough to handle, remove any meat from the bones and set the meat aside. Discard the bones.
- Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot to remove any remaining solids.
- In the pot with the strained broth, add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- If using barley or rice, add it to the pot. Continue to simmer until the vegetables and grains are tender, about 30-40 minutes.
- Add the reserved turkey meat back into the pot. Season with bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 150-200 (varies depending on the amount of turkey and whether grains are added)
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 15g (without grains)
- Protein: 15g
Prep and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (for chopping vegetables and handling the carcass)
- Cooking Time: 2 hours
Servings
- Serves: 6-8 people
Turkey Carcass Soup is a wonderful, cost-effective way to make the most of your holiday meals. The soup is hearty, flavorful, and full of nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a post-holiday meal that warms the soul and reduces waste. Enjoy this comforting soup with your loved ones and appreciate the full bounty of your feast!
