My Cozy Turkey Soup Recipe That Makes Leftovers Shine
You guys I absolutely love what happens when you turn holiday leftovers into something magical. This Turkey Soup is my go to comfort food after all the festivities are over. The combination of tender turkey fresh veggies and herbs brings back memories of my grandma's kitchen. I added pearl couscous to make it extra special and trust me this soup will warm your soul on chilly evenings.
Why This Soup is a Family Favorite
Listen up if you're wondering what to do with that leftover turkey. This soup couldn't be easier to throw together and the flavors are absolutely incredible. I love using fresh herbs and homemade stock when I can but store bought works just fine too. The pearl couscous adds such a fun little twist that even my kids ask for seconds. Plus you can make it ahead which is perfect for busy days.
What You'll Need From Your Kitchen
- The Star: Your leftover turkey is perfect here but honestly I've made this with rotisserie chicken too and it's just as yummy.
- Veggie Base: Grab some onions celery and carrots plus any roasted veggies you have hanging around.
- The Broth: Homemade turkey stock is amazing but chicken stock works great no judgment if you use bouillon cubes.
- Fresh Herbs: I love using thyme rosemary bay leaves garlic and parsley they make everything smell incredible.
- My Secret Weapon: Israeli couscous gives such a fun texture but pasta or rice work too.
Here's How I Make It
- Start With Your Veggies
- Heat up some olive oil and butter in your biggest pot then cook those onions celery and carrots until they smell amazing.
- The Good Stuff
- Pour in your stock add your turkey garlic thyme and bay leaves then let it come to a nice bubble.
- Time for Couscous
- Toss in that pearl couscous and let it cook about 10 minutes until it's just right.
- Final Touches
- Fish out those bay leaves sprinkle in some fresh herbs and serve it up with some yummy bread.
My Best Soup Making Secrets
Want to know what makes this soup extra special? Homemade stock is a game changer if you have time. I always cook my veggies in butter it adds such richness. If you're gluten free swap the couscous for rice. Got leftover roasted veggies? Throw them in too. Just remember to only reheat once to keep everything tasting fresh. It'll keep in your fridge for 3 to 4 days or pop it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
My Favorite Way to Serve It
You know what makes this soup even better? A slice of crusty bread or my special garlic cheese toast. Just grab some rye or sourdough rub it with garlic top with cheese and broil until it's all melty and golden. It's seriously the perfect combo for a cozy dinner at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use regular couscous instead of pearl couscous?
Regular couscous cooks much faster and has a different texture. While you can use it, you'll need to adjust cooking time to about 5 minutes and expect a different consistency in your soup.
- How long does this soup keep in the fridge?
The soup stays fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors often get better the next day.
- Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Just cool completely before freezing, and when reheating, you might need to add a bit more broth as the couscous absorbs liquid.
- What if I don't have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs work fine - use 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme instead of fresh sprigs. For dried parsley, use 1 teaspoon instead of fresh.
- Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add peas, corn, green beans, or any other vegetables you have. Just add them at the right time so they don't overcook.