Chunky Turkey Soup

This Chunky Turkey Soup is the perfect way to put leftover turkey to good use, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. The soup is thick and creamy, making it a comforting choice, especially if you have homemade turkey stock on hand. With a blend of vegetables, turkey chunks, and a touch of garlic bread, this soup offers a delightful taste of home.

SERVES 4
PREP 15 MIN
COOK 30 MIN
FREEZE UP TO 3 MONTHS

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3½ tbsp (50g) butter, softened
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 large potato, peeled, cut into small chunks
• 2 carrots, cut into small chunks
• 1 leek, cut into small chunks
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 quart (1 liter) turkey or chicken stock, preferably homemade
• 3 scant tbsp (25g) all-purpose flour
• 1¾oz (50g) frozen peas
• 7oz (200g) cooked turkey, cut in chunks
• Big handful of coarsely chopped parsley
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Hot garlic bread, to serve

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil and half of the softened butter. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 4–5 minutes until it starts to turn golden. Introduce the potato, carrot, leek, and bay leaves to the pan. Cook for a few more minutes over high heat until the vegetables become golden and start to stick to the bottom of the pan.
2. Deglaze with Stock: While maintaining high heat, pour in the turkey or chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate the lovely golden color into the stock. Reduce the heat, cover the pan with a lid, and simmer for approximately 15 minutes.
3. Create a Roux: In a separate bowl, work the rest of the butter into the all-purpose flour using a spoon. Add this mixture in small pieces to the pan, whisking vigorously after each addition with a wire whisk. Continue until you achieve a thin sauce consistency. Allow the soup to simmer for about 10 minutes to ensure the vegetables are fully cooked. Add the frozen peas for the last 2 minutes of simmering. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves.
4. Add Turkey and Season: Stir in the chunks of cooked turkey and the coarsely chopped parsley. Grind plenty of black pepper into the soup and add salt if necessary. Warm everything through.
5. Serve: Ladle the Chunky Turkey Soup into bowls and accompany it with slices of hot garlic bread. This soup makes for a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for utilizing leftover turkey and enjoying a delicious homemade soup.

This Chunky Turkey Soup is a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving or any turkey-centered meal in a new and comforting form. It’s both hearty and creamy, offering a delightful and fulfilling dining experience.