Ah, the day after Thanksgiving. The fridge is brimming with leftovers, and you’re staring at that mountain of turkey wondering what on earth to do with it all. Fear not, because this Easy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe is like a warm hug on a chilly day—simple, hearty, and a perfect way to transform yesterday’s feast into today’s comfort. Imagine the way the broth dances with flavors, each spoonful whispering tales of holiday cheer.
Steps
- Heat olive oil and butter in a pot over low heat, then sauté chopped onions, celery, carrots, and garlic with thyme for 5 minutes.
- Pour in turkey or chicken stock, add the cooked turkey and bay leaves, and bring the mixture to a boil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in the giant couscous or noodles and cook for about 10 minutes over medium heat until the couscous is tender.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy the soup on its own or with your choice of bread.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 onion or 2 shallots
- 1 large carrot
- 2 stalks of celery
- 1 clove of garlic
- 4 sprigs of fresh thyme or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1.5 liters (6 cups) turkey or chicken stock
- 75 grams (½ cup) giant or pearl couscous
- 250 grams (2 cups) cooked turkey or chicken
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Nutritional Values
Calories: 852 kcal | Carbohydrates: 78g | Protein: 54g | Fat: 36g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 156mg | Sodium: 2748mg | Potassium: 1086mg | Fiber: 12g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 11514 IU | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 132mg | Iron: 6mg
FAQ
- Can I use chicken instead of turkey in this soup recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute leftover turkey with rotisserie chicken or any leftover roast chicken. The recipe is versatile and works well with either poultry option.
- Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?
- Absolutely! You can replace the giant couscous with rice to make the soup gluten-free. White rice, brown rice, or even wild rice can be used, each adding a unique texture and flavor.
- What can I serve with the leftover turkey soup?
- The soup pairs wonderfully with a bread roll or garlic cheesy rye toast. To make the toast, rub your favorite bread with a garlic clove, sprinkle with cheese, and broil until golden and melted.
- How should I store leftover turkey soup?
- Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, it’s best to use a saucepan on the stove to maintain the soup’s moisture and flavor.
- Can I freeze the leftover turkey for later use?
- Yes, leftover turkey can be frozen for up to 6 months, though it’s best used within 3 months to maintain quality. Freezing helps stretch the leftovers for future meals beyond the holiday season.
Tips
- Enhance Flavour with Butter: Sauté your vegetables in a combination of olive oil and butter. The butter will add a wonderful depth of flavor to your soup, making it extra delicious.
- Choose Your Starch Wisely: If you can’t find Israeli couscous, consider using short pasta shapes like orzo or macaroni. For a gluten-free option, white or brown rice works well, while wild rice can add a nutty twist.
- Incorporate Leftover Vegetables: To make the most of your leftovers, add leftover roasted vegetables from your turkey dinner. Dice them to a similar size as the other vegetables and add them to the soup a few minutes before finishing cooking.
- Optimal Reheating Method: For the best results, reheat your leftover soup on the stovetop rather than in the microwave. This method retains moisture and ensures that your soup is heated evenly.
Equipment
- Giant/Israeli (Pearl) Couscous – A specific type of couscous that may not be commonly found in every pantry.
- Bay Leaves – Often used for flavoring soups and stews, but not everyone might have these on hand.
- Fresh Thyme – If you prefer using fresh herbs and don’t have a garden, you might need to purchase this.
