Emeril Lagasse Turkey Soup Recipe

Let’s talk turkey soup, specifically Emeril Lagasse’s version!

The key to really enhancing the flavor with this recipe is starting with a whole turkey carcass, as it provides a rich and nutritious stock base.

Don’t rush the simmering process; letting it cook over low heat for a few hours allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.

I love that you can customize this soup with your favorite veggies and maybe even some pasta for a bit of variety!

How to Make Emeril Lagasse Turkey Soup Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 whole Turkey Carcass
• 2 medium Onions, chopped
• 3 medium Carrots, chopped
• 3 stalks Celery, chopped
• 2 Bay Leaves
• Salt
• Pepper
• 8 cups Water
• 2 cups Turkey Meat, diced
• 2 cups Potatoes or Pasta, cooked

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Place the whole turkey carcass in a large stockpot.

Add the onions, carrots, celery, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.

Step 2:

Cover the turkey carcass with 8 cups of water.

Bring the pot to a boil over medium heat.

Step 3:

Reduce the heat to medium-low.

Let it simmer for about 2-3 hours.

Step 4:

After simmering, strain the stock through a fine mesh sieve to remove solids.

Place the stock back into the pot.

Step 5:

Add the diced turkey meat and your choice of cooked potatoes or pasta to the stock.

Simmer for another 15-20 minutes until everything is warmed through.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Save the Carcass:

Whenever you’ve got a leftover turkey carcass, freeze it so you can make this delicious soup another day!

Spice Things Up:

Feel free to add herbs such as thyme or sage to elevate the soup’s flavor.

It really personalizes the taste to your liking.

Veggie Variations:

If you’re a fan of more veggies, consider adding corn or peas towards the end.

These could give the soup a sweet touch, which complements the savory elements well.

Don’t Rush the Stock:

Giving the stock ample simmering time extracts more flavors from the turkey bones, resulting in a richer soup.

Opt for Fresh Ingredients:

Whenever possible, use fresh ingredients to get the best taste in your soup.

Fresh veggies bring a crisp and vibrant taste!

What to Serve with Emeril Lagasse Turkey Soup Recipe

The turkey soup you’ve prepared is fantastic on its own, but you can take it to another level by pairing it with some tasty sides.

Here’s my list of a few traditional and unique ideas!

Garlic Bread

You can’t go wrong with a warm slice of garlic bread!

The rich, buttery flavors meld perfectly with the soup’s savory broth.

Simply toast some bread, rub it with fresh garlic, and brush it with butter before serving.

Baked Potatoes

A classic baked potato, when loaded with all your favorite toppings, can be a wonderful companion to your turkey soup.

Bacon bits, scallions, and cheese offer satisfying textures and flavors.

Wrap the potatoes in foil and bake until tender for an easy addition to your meal.

Caprese Salad

For a refreshing contrast, a Caprese salad could be just what you need.

With juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, it brings a burst of flavor that complements the soup’s hearty nature.

Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra touch.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Try pairing your soup with roasted Brussels sprouts for something a bit out of the ordinary.

When roasted, these sprouts come alive with an earthy flavor that sings when combined with the soup.

Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and roast until they are deliciously crisp.

Farro Pilaf

A farro pilaf can offer a unique and nutritious accompaniment to your turkey soup.

The chewy texture and nutty taste of farro offer something distinct.

Cook it with broth, herbs, and your choice of veggies for a delightful side option.

Tater Tots

And for a touch of fun, how about tater tots?

These crispy little nuggets are always a hit and can be a playful addition to your meal.

Serve them hot and crispy for the perfect crunchy complement to your warm, comforting soup.

Variations and Substitutions

Broth Base

You can experiment with different broth bases for this recipe.

If you prefer a richer flavor, try using turkey or chicken stock instead of water.

Adding stock infuses your soup with depth and richness, transforming each bite into a savory experience.

Vegetable Choices

Feel free to substitute any of the classic vegetables like carrots and celery for others.

Consider adding parsnips for a hint of sweetness or bell peppers for a touch of color.

It’s a fantastic way to make use of whatever is in your fridge.

Herb Options

Bay leaves are a staple, but you can mix it up with herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Fresh herbs can provide an aromatic twist and enhance the flavor profile of your soup.

Dried herbs can also be a convenient and flavorful alternative.

No Turkey?

No turkey on hand?

You can easily swap in shredded chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Both alternatives work wonderfully and absorb the soup flavors beautifully.

How to Store Leftover Turkey Vegetable Soup

You’ve got some delicious leftover soup, and it’s time to store it right.

Grab some airtight containers to keep the soup fresh and flavorful.

Leaving it down to room temperature before popping it into the fridge or freezer is crucial.

Refrigerator

If you plan on eating the leftovers within a day or two, use the refrigerator.

The soup will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days.

Make sure it’s chilled and tightly sealed to keep the taste intact.

Freezer

For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions using freezer-safe containers.

Leave enough space at the top, as the soup may expand when frozen.

Label each container with the date to keep track of how long it’s been stored.

Defrosting Tips

When you’re ready for more soup, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

This method helps the soup maintain its texture and flavor after heating.

Storing it properly means your meal will still taste like the day you made it!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Vegetables

You want your veggies to be tender, but not mushy.

Cook them just enough to release their flavors without turning them into a puree!

Not Skimming the Broth

Fat and foam can ruin the soup’s texture if they’re left floating on top.

Make sure to skim off these impurities as the soup simmers.

Your broth will be clear and beautiful!

Forgetting to Season

Adding salt and pepper at different stages ensures flavor is absorbed throughout.

Taste as you go along!

Adjust the seasoning, keeping your soup well-balanced and delicious.