Description
Delia Smith’s Turkey Soup combines leftover turkey meat and bones with vegetables, herbs, and a rich stock to create a warming and flavorful soup. It’s a classic dish that’s perfect for making the most of your holiday leftovers.
Ingredients
For the Stock
- Turkey Carcass (1): Provides a rich, flavorful base.
- Onion (1, halved): Adds depth to the stock.
- Carrot (1, roughly chopped): For sweetness.
- Celery (1 stalk, roughly chopped): Adds flavor.
- Bay Leaf (1): For aroma.
- Fresh Thyme (2-3 sprigs): Optional, for herbal notes.
- Black Peppercorns (1 tsp): Adds mild spice.
- Water (1.5 liters): To simmer the stock.
For the Soup
- Cooked Turkey (300g, shredded): The star ingredient.
- Onion (1, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and flavor.
- Carrot (1, diced): Provides color and texture.
- Leek (1, sliced): Adds a subtle, earthy flavor.
- Potatoes (2 medium, diced): For heartiness.
- Butter or Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): For seasoning.
- Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the stock
Place the turkey carcass, onion halves, carrot, celery, bay leaf, thyme, and peppercorns in a large pot. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, skimming off any foam or fat that rises to the surface. Strain the stock through a fine mesh sieve and discard the solids.
Step 2: Sauté the vegetables
In a large pot, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrot, and leek. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened but not browned.
Step 3: Add the stock and potatoes
Pour the strained turkey stock into the pot and add the diced potatoes. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Add the turkey
Stir in the shredded cooked turkey and season with salt and black pepper. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the turkey through.
Step 5: Garnish and serve
Remove the pot from the heat and garnish the soup with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or your favorite side.