Turkey Soup

Turkey soup is a savory and comforting dish made by simmering turkey meat, bones, and vegetables in broth. It is a common way to utilize the leftovers from a roasted turkey, particularly after Thanksgiving or Christmas celebrations.

Wild turkey was part of the diet of indigenous peoples in North America long before European contact, and turkey-based broths and stews likely predate written records. In the United States, turkey soup became especially popular as a means of stretching the holiday turkey into multiple meals.

In the classic preparation, the turkey carcass and any remaining meat are simmered with onions, carrots, celery, herbs, and seasonings to create a flavorful broth. The meat is then removed from the bones and added back into the soup. Egg noodles, rice, or barley are common additions that turn the broth into a heartier, more substantial dish. Turkey soup can also incorporate other vegetables such as potatoes, parsnips, or mushrooms.

The flavor profile of turkey soup is savory, with notes of poultry, herbs, and vegetables. The broth is typically rich and slightly sweet from the natural sugars in the turkey bones and vegetables. Turkey meat contributes a delicate, lean protein that pairs well with the aromatic broth.

Turkey soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round, but it is particularly comforting during the colder months. It is often considered a restorative meal, especially when one is feeling under the weather. The soup can be customized to individual tastes, with the addition of spices, herbs, or other ingredients.

Regional variations of turkey soup exist throughout the United States. In the Southwestern United States, the soup may include chili peppers, cumin, and lime for a more robust, spicy flavor. In the Northeastern states, turkey soup is sometimes thickened with a roux or finished with heavy cream for a velvety texture.

Regardless of the specific ingredients or preparation method, turkey soup remains a beloved comfort food that allows home cooks to make the most of their holiday turkey leftovers. It is a simple, nourishing dish that can be easily adapted to suit personal preferences or dietary needs.