Turkey Carcass Soup

 Ingredients:

  • 1 turkey carcass (with some meat still attached)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 8 cups water (or enough to cover the carcass)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • 1 cup cooked turkey meat, shredded or diced
  • 2 cups cooked noodles or rice (your choice)
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Turkey Carcass:

    • Begin by stripping as much meat as you can from the turkey carcass and reserve it for later use in the soup. Don't worry about getting every bit; the goal is to use up the leftover turkey bits.

  2. Start the Broth:

    • Place the turkey carcass, including any leftover skin, in a large soup pot.
    • Add chopped onions, carrots, celery, minced garlic, and a bay leaf to the pot.

  3. Cover with Water:

    • Pour enough water over the turkey carcass and vegetables to cover them completely.

  4. Simmer the Broth:

    • Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low.
    • Simmer the broth, uncovered, for about 1-2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the turkey carcass to release its essence into the broth.
    • As the broth simmers, skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.

  5. Strain the Broth:

    • Carefully strain the broth through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean pot or large bowl.
    • Discard the solids (the carcass and vegetables) or save any tender bits of meat that have fallen off.

  6. Return the Broth to the Pot:

    • Return the strained broth to the soup pot.

  7. Add Remaining Ingredients:

    • Add the shredded or diced turkey meat and the cooked noodles or rice to the pot.

  8. Season the Soup:

    • Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. You can also add any preferred seasonings, such as thyme or sage.

  9. Simmer with Optional Ingredients:

    • If you like, add frozen peas or any other vegetables you prefer to the soup.
    • Simmer the soup for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and everything is heated through.

  10. Serve:

    • Ladle the hot turkey carcass soup into bowls.
    • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
    • Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

Enjoy your homemade turkey carcass soup, a delicious way to make the most of your holiday leftovers and create a hearty and comforting meal.

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