Turkey soup is one of those comfort foods that combines simplicity and depth of flavor in every bowl. Whether you’re using leftovers from Thanksgiving or prepping a fresh turkey for the occasion, a warm bowl of turkey soup has a way of soothing both the body and soul. Packed with savory ingredients, rich broth, and tender turkey meat, this dish is not only a treat for the tastebuds but also a great way to make the most out of a whole bird.
The beauty of turkey soup lies in its versatility-you can go hearty with loads of veggies, or light and brothy depending on your mood. Whether it’s a crisp fall evening or a chilly winter day, this dish is perfect for those seeking a cozy meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.
Let’s dive into this Turkey Soup UK recipe, which offers a blend of rich, comforting flavors and some helpful tips for making it truly spectacular.
Turkey Soup Uk Recipe
This recipe follows a traditional British approach to turkey soup. It brings together the classic turkey flavors with ingredients you’ll commonly find in UK kitchens-potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and the all-important homemade stock. The best part? It’s adaptable, meaning you can use ingredients you have on hand or experiment with different flavors to make it your own.
Ingredients Needed
- Leftover cooked turkey – Ideally, use any meat leftover from a roast turkey or a whole bird, shredded into bite-sized pieces.
- Turkey carcass – For making the flavorful homemade stock that forms the backbone of the soup.
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Vegetables
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 large parsnip, peeled and diced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
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Herbs And Spices
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
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Stock Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter for sautéing
- 2L of water (for the stock)
- 1 tsp of whole peppercorns
- A couple of garlic cloves, smashed
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
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Other
- A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness (optional)
Cooking Instructions
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Make The Stock
- Start by creating a rich turkey stock. Place the turkey carcass in a large pot. Add about 2 liters of water to cover the bones, along with the garlic, whole peppercorns, and a couple of bay leaves.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for 45 minutes to an hour, occasionally skimming the surface to remove any impurities.
- Once the stock is rich and flavorful, strain it to remove all the solids, leaving you with a clear, delicious base for your soup.
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Prepare The Vegetables
- While your stock is simmering, prepare the vegetables. Dice your carrots, parsnips, potatoes, and chop the onion.
- In a separate large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until softened and translucent-about 5-7 minutes.
- Toss in the diced carrots, parsnips, and potatoes, and cook for another 5 minutes to give them a little bit of a sauté before adding the stock.
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Combine And Cook
- Once the stock is ready, pour it into the pot with the vegetables. Bring everything to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the leftover turkey meat, and season with salt, black pepper, and thyme. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Finishing Touches
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as needed. If you like a little zing, squeeze in some lemon juice to brighten it up.
- Serve with freshly chopped parsley sprinkled on top for an extra burst of color and flavor.
Ingredient Insights
- Turkey Carcass: Using the carcass to create a homemade stock brings an incredible depth of flavor to the soup. The bones release collagen and natural gelatin as they simmer, creating a velvety, rich broth that no store-bought stock can replicate.
- Root Vegetables (Carrots, Parsnips, Potatoes): Root vegetables are not only affordable but add a lovely, earthy sweetness to the soup. Parsnips are particularly interesting here because their slightly nutty flavor enhances the overall richness of the soup.
- Herbs: The use of bay leaves and thyme helps build the flavor profile of the soup. Thyme, with its subtle earthy and lemony notes, pairs beautifully with the turkey and vegetables, adding an extra layer of depth.
- Turkey Meat: If you’re using leftovers from a roast turkey, you’ll find that the meat has absorbed some of the savory flavors from the original dish, which further enriches the soup. Make sure to shred it finely so it melds well into the broth.
Expert Tips
- Don’t rush the stock: Take your time simmering the turkey carcass to get the most out of it. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful your stock will be. If you can, try letting it simmer for a few hours.
- Adjust for consistency: If you like a thicker soup, mash a portion of the vegetables or even add a few more potatoes. On the flip side, if you prefer a lighter broth, just add more water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
- Season gradually: Since turkey can be on the mild side, taste as you go and adjust your seasoning. Don’t be afraid to go heavy on the salt if the broth tastes bland, as the turkey and veggies can absorb it.
- Use leftovers creatively: This soup works great for using up more than just turkey! You can throw in leftover vegetables from your roast dinner, such as brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or even some stuffing.
Recipe Variations
- Add rice or pasta: For a more filling soup, add some small pasta (like elbow macaroni or orzo) or cooked rice toward the end of the cooking process. This will give the soup extra substance and make it a one-pot meal.
- Swap out vegetables: While this recipe uses the standard root vegetables, you can mix it up based on what’s in season. Leeks, celery, or even butternut squash can add unique flavors to the soup.
- Spicy twist: If you prefer a kick of heat, add a chopped chili or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper. A dash of smoked paprika could also add some complexity and a subtle smoky undertone.
- Herb variation: While thyme and bay leaves are traditional, you could experiment with rosemary or sage for a different herbal note that pairs well with turkey.
Final Words
Turkey soup is one of those dishes that’s greater than the sum of its parts. It’s deeply satisfying, nourishing, and full of flavor, with just the right balance of richness from the stock and freshness from the vegetables. Plus, it’s so adaptable-it can go from simple to gourmet depending on what you have in your pantry.
The beauty of this recipe is its ability to bring people together, whether it’s a family meal or a cozy dinner on a quiet evening. And let’s not forget, it’s an excellent way to use up leftovers, so it’s kind on both the environment and your wallet!
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Commonly Used In A Traditional Turkey Soup UK Recipe?
A traditional UK-style turkey soup typically includes leftover turkey meat and bones, carrots, celery, onions, leeks, potatoes, parsley, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Some recipes may also include parsnips, turnips, or pearl barley for added texture and flavour.
Can I Make Turkey Soup From Scratch Without Leftovers?
Yes, you can make turkey soup from scratch by using a whole turkey or turkey carcass. Simmer the turkey with water, vegetables, and herbs for several hours to create a rich stock, then add chopped meat and additional vegetables to complete the soup.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Turkey Soup In The UK Style?
Cooking turkey soup usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours on the stovetop. This includes simmering the stock to extract flavours from the turkey bones and then cooking the vegetables and meat until tender.
What Are The Best Vegetables To Add To Turkey Soup?
Common vegetables for UK-style turkey soup include carrots, celery, onions, leeks, potatoes, and parsnips. Seasonal vegetables such as turnips, swedes, or cabbage can also be added for extra flavour and nutrition.
How Can I Make The Turkey Soup More Flavourful?
To enhance flavour, use the turkey carcass and simmer it slowly with herbs like thyme, bay leaf, and parsley. Roasting the turkey bones before making the stock can also deepen the taste. Adding a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can brighten the flavours.
Is It Possible To Freeze Turkey Soup?
Yes, turkey soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Can I Make Turkey Soup Gluten-free In The UK?
Absolutely. Most turkey soups are naturally gluten-free if you avoid adding ingredients like barley or thickening with flour. You can use gluten-free alternatives such as rice, quinoa, or gluten-free pasta instead.
What Is The Typical Serving Size For Turkey Soup?
A typical serving size for turkey soup is around 300-400ml per person, depending on whether it is served as a starter or a main meal. It is often accompanied by crusty bread or rolls in the UK.
Can I Use Leftover Turkey Meat Instead Of A Whole Carcass?
Yes, using leftover cooked turkey meat is common and convenient. For maximum flavour, you can combine leftover meat with a store-bought or homemade stock made from turkey bones or vegetable stock.
Are There Variations Of Turkey Soup In The UK?
Yes, variations exist across the UK. Some recipes include pearl barley or dumplings for a heartier texture, while others might use root vegetables and leeks for a lighter, traditional style. Spices like nutmeg or a dash of Worcestershire sauce may also be added in certain regional recipes.