Best-ever Turkey and Rice Soup

Best-ever Turkey and Rice Soup Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 4 hours and 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

The Best-ever Turkey and Rice Soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for utilizing leftover turkey. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful and nourishing meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Whether you're looking to warm up during the colder months or seeking a light yet satisfying dish, this turkey and rice soup is sure to please.

History

The tradition of making soup from leftover poultry dates back centuries and spans across many cultures. This particular turkey and rice soup recipe is inspired by the classic American approach to making the most out of Thanksgiving leftovers. It embodies the spirit of resourcefulness and the joy of sharing a warm, homemade meal with loved ones.

Ingredients

bones and trimmings from 1 turkey
5 cups water
1 tsp salt
1 bay leaf
0.25 tsp poultry seasoning
0.25 tsp ground white pepper
2 medium carrots, sliced
1 cup whole kernel corn
1 cup chopped onion
1 stalk celery, sliced
0.5 cup uncooked rice
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

How to prepare

In a Dutch oven or large saucepan, combine turkey, water, salt, bay leaf, poultry seasoning, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to simmer and cook, covered, for 3 to 4 hours.
Remove the bones, cut off the meat, and return the meat to the broth.
Add carrots, corn, onion, celery, and rice to the broth.
Simmer, covered, for 30 minutes or until the rice and vegetables are tender.
Garnish with parsley.

Variations

For a twist on the classic, consider adding different vegetables such as kale, spinach, or mushrooms. You can also substitute the rice with other grains like barley or quinoa for a different texture and nutritional profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of your soup, consider roasting the turkey bones and trimmings before adding them to the pot. This extra step adds depth to the broth. Additionally, rinsing the rice before cooking can prevent the soup from becoming too starchy. For a richer broth, you can also add a splash of white wine during the simmering process.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is a complete meal on its own but can be paired with a crusty piece of whole-grain bread or a light salad for a more filling meal. For a touch of creaminess, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can be added upon serving.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a flavorful soup is a slow and gentle simmer. This method allows the ingredients to meld together and the broth to become rich and full-bodied. Additionally, sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the broth can enhance their flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If turkey is not available, chicken can be used as a substitute. For a vegetarian version, omit the turkey and use vegetable broth, adding beans or lentils for protein.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw (if frozen) and warm on the stove over medium heat until heated through.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the soup in a deep bowl garnished with fresh parsley and a side of lemon wedges. For an elegant touch, serve with a small pitcher of extra broth on the side for guests to add to their liking.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling pairs beautifully with the flavors of this soup. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon complements the dish well.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a little water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of this turkey and rice soup is relatively low in calories, with an average of 150-200 calories per serving. This makes it an excellent option for those looking for a lighter meal that still provides plenty of nutrients and satisfaction.

Carbohydrates

This turkey and rice soup is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the rice and vegetables. A serving of this soup contains approximately 15-20 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those monitoring their carb intake.

Fats

The fat content in this soup is minimal, primarily coming from the turkey. Depending on the leanness of the turkey used, a serving typically contains about 3-5 grams of fat. For a lower fat option, you can skim off any fat that rises to the top of the broth during cooking.

Proteins

Turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, and this soup provides a generous amount, with approximately 20-25 grams of protein per serving. This makes it a filling and muscle-friendly option for a meal.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is packed with vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of vegetables and turkey. It is particularly high in Vitamin A (from carrots), Vitamin C (from parsley and vegetables), and essential minerals like potassium and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe is free from most common allergens, including dairy, nuts, and gluten (assuming gluten-free poultry seasoning is used). However, those with specific food sensitivities should always double-check individual ingredients.

Summary

Overall, the Best-ever Turkey and Rice Soup is a nutritious and balanced meal. It's low in fats and calories, moderate in carbohydrates, and high in protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It's also allergen-friendly, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.

Summary

The Best-ever Turkey and Rice Soup is a versatile, nutritious, and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. With its rich history, simple ingredients, and the ability to customize to dietary needs and preferences, it's a recipe that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you're looking to use up leftover turkey or simply craving a wholesome meal, this soup is sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a cold winter day, and I was rummaging through my old recipe box, looking for something warm and comforting to make for dinner. I stumbled upon a faded, handwritten note tucked away in the back of the box. It was titled "Best-ever Turkey and Rice Soup" and had a list of ingredients and instructions that sparked my curiosity.

I had never made turkey and rice soup before, but the ingredients seemed simple enough, and I decided to give it a try. As I gathered the necessary items from my pantry and refrigerator, I couldn't help but wonder where this recipe had come from. I had collected recipes from various places and people over the years, but this one seemed different somehow, as if it held a special significance.

As I chopped the vegetables and shredded the leftover turkey from Thanksgiving, the savory aroma filled my kitchen, warming me from the inside out. I followed the instructions carefully, adding the ingredients one by one and allowing the flavors to meld together in the pot.

As the soup simmered on the stove, I couldn't resist sneaking a taste. The combination of tender turkey, hearty vegetables, and fragrant herbs was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. It was rich and satisfying, with a depth of flavor that spoke of years of culinary wisdom.

I served myself a steaming bowl of soup, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil. As I took my first spoonful, memories flooded back to me – memories of family gatherings, of shared meals and laughter around the table. This soup was more than just a recipe – it was a connection to my past, a reminder of the love and care that had gone into each dish I had ever prepared.

Over the years, I have made this soup countless times, each batch slightly different from the last as I experimented with new ingredients and techniques. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of homemade meals made with love and care.

As I sit here now, stirring a pot of simmering soup on the stove, I am reminded of all the recipes that have brought me joy and comfort over the years. But none hold quite the same place in my heart as this one – the Best-ever Turkey and Rice Soup. It is a testament to the power of good food and good company, a reminder that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most cherished.

So as I ladle out bowls of steaming soup for my loved ones, I offer a silent thank you to the person who first shared this recipe with me, whoever they may be. Their gift has brought me endless joy and comfort, and for that, I am forever grateful. And as we gather around the table to enjoy a meal together, I am reminded once again of the power of good food to bring us closer, to nourish our bodies and our souls, and to create lasting memories that will stay with us always.