Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Soup Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Soup is the perfect comfort food that combines savory turkey with hearty vegetables and rich flavors, making it a great way to use up leftover turkey while also nourishing your body with a wholesome, satisfying meal.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Soup

Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Soup is a delicious, easy-to-make soup that utilizes leftover turkey, creating a rich and hearty dish. Packed with vegetables, herbs, and spices, it transforms your leftover turkey into a comforting, flavorful soup that can feed a crowd.

This soup is ideal for chilly days or when you’re looking for something both satisfying and healthy. It’s a great option for utilizing holiday turkey leftovers, but it’s delicious enough to make from scratch as well. The best part about Jamie Oliver’s recipe is its flexibility; you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand to add flavor, texture, and nutrients.

Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Turkey leftovers (about 500g of turkey meat, shredded)
• Olive oil (for cooking)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 leek, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 2 cups of turkey or chicken broth (you can also use stock cubes)
• 1 can of chopped tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• 1 bay leaf
• Fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 handful of frozen peas (optional)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
• A splash of lemon juice (optional, but it adds a lovely zing)

Equipment Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Soup, the following equipment is needed:

• Large pot or Dutch oven (for simmering the soup)
• Chopping board and knife (for prepping the vegetables)
• Wooden spoon (for stirring)
• Ladle (for serving)
• Soup bowls (for enjoying your meal)

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Soup?

Making Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Soup is simple and straightforward. Here’s how to do it:

1. Prepare The Vegetables

   • Start by peeling and chopping your vegetables. Dice the onion, chop the carrots, celery, leek, and potatoes, and mince the garlic.

2. Cook The Aromatics

   • Heat some olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Add The Vegetables

   • Toss in the carrots, celery, leek, and potatoes. Stir for a few minutes to combine and allow the vegetables to start softening.

4. Add The Broth And Tomatoes

   • Pour in the turkey or chicken broth along with the chopped tomatoes (and their juices). Stir everything together, making sure all the ingredients are well combined.

5. Simmer The Soup

   • Add the bay leaf and fresh thyme. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

6. Add The Turkey

   • Shred the leftover turkey and add it to the soup. Stir to incorporate the meat into the broth. If you’re using frozen peas, throw them in at this point too.

7. Finish And Serve

   • Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you like, add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavor. Remove the bay leaf, and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Expert Tips

1. Use homemade turkey stock if you have it, as it will add extra richness and depth of flavor to the soup. You can even simmer turkey bones with vegetables to make your own stock before preparing the soup.
2. Feel free to experiment with vegetables. If you don’t have one of the vegetables listed, swap it out for something else like parsnips, butternut squash, or even spinach.
3. Make it a creamy soup: For a richer version, blend part of the soup once it’s cooked to create a creamy texture without adding cream. You can also add a dollop of cream or crème fraîche for extra indulgence.
4. Don’t overcook the turkey: If using cooked turkey, be sure to add it near the end of the cooking process to avoid drying it out.
5. Make ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together, so feel free to make it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Soup is a perfect way to breathe new life into leftover turkey. With its satisfying blend of vegetables, turkey, and herbs, it offers a warm, hearty meal that will keep you cozy on the coldest of days.

Whether you’re making it after a holiday meal or preparing it from scratch, this soup will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile, easy to make, and guaranteed to please the whole family. So grab your ingredients, get your pot ready, and enjoy the comforting taste of homemade turkey soup!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Soup

Jamie Oliver’s turkey soup is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for the colder months, especially after a big holiday meal. But what makes this soup so amazing is how adaptable it is. Whether you want to spice it up, add more veggies, or try a different protein, there are plenty of easy variations to suit your taste.

1. Add Extra Veggies: While Jamie’s turkey soup recipe calls for a simple base of onions, carrots, and celery, you can easily throw in other vegetables to enhance flavor and nutrition. Try adding parsnips, turnips, or even squash for a subtle sweetness. Leafy greens like kale or spinach also add vibrancy and a fresh texture, making your soup even more satisfying.
2. Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding some chili flakes, fresh chopped chili, or a teaspoon of smoked paprika. The warmth from these spices will elevate the turkey soup and give it an exciting kick. You could also opt for a few dashes of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
3. Herbal Infusions: Jamie’s recipe uses bay leaves and thyme to infuse flavor into the soup, but you can experiment with different herbs for unique flavor profiles. Rosemary, sage, and oregano are great choices. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, added at the end of cooking, can also give your soup a fresh pop.
4. Change the Protein: While turkey is the star of this recipe, you can easily swap it out for other lean meats. Chicken is an excellent alternative, and leftover roast chicken would work just as well. For a vegetarian version, swap the turkey for hearty beans like cannellini or chickpeas, or even try some tofu for added protein.
5. Creamy Twist: To make the soup a bit richer and creamier, add a splash of cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk toward the end of the cooking process. You could also puree a portion of the soup with an immersion blender to create a smooth and velvety texture while leaving some chunks for a heartier feel.
6. Different Grains or Pasta: Jamie’s soup is perfect for using up any leftover rice or pasta. You can easily add a handful of cooked rice, or pasta like small shells or orzo to make the soup more filling. Quinoa or farro are great whole-grain options that add a nutty flavor and extra fiber.

These variations keep things interesting and allow you to customize the soup to whatever ingredients you have on hand, making it a versatile dish that can evolve with your cravings.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Leftover turkey soup can be a wonderful thing, as it’s even more flavorful the next day. But storing it correctly is key to maintaining the quality and taste of your soup. Here are the best practices to follow:

1. Cool Before Storing: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator. Rapidly cooling your soup helps prevent bacterial growth and preserves its texture. To speed up the cooling process, you can place the soup in a shallow container or use an ice bath method (placing the pot in a sink with ice and water).
2. Use Airtight Containers: Store your turkey soup in airtight containers to keep it fresh for as long as possible. Glass containers or BPA-free plastic containers are excellent options. If you’re planning on storing multiple portions, consider using smaller containers to make reheating more convenient.
3. Refrigeration Time: Turkey soup can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. After that, the flavor and texture may begin to deteriorate, so it’s best to eat it within this timeframe.
4. Freezing Leftovers: If you have more soup than you can consume in a few days, freezing is a great option. Turkey soup freezes wonderfully, but make sure to leave some room at the top of your container for expansion as the soup freezes. You can store it in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Label the containers with the date so you can easily track how long it’s been stored.
5. Reheating: When reheating leftover turkey soup, do so gently on the stove over medium heat. Stir occasionally to avoid scorching. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, you can add a little water or broth to bring it back to your desired consistency. Avoid reheating soup multiple times, as repeated heating can affect the quality of the ingredients.
6. Avoid Storing for Too Long: If your soup has been left in the fridge for more than 4 days or shows any signs of spoilage (unpleasant odor, mold, or curdled liquid), it’s best to discard it.

Proper storage of your leftover turkey soup ensures that you can enjoy it at its best later on, without compromising on flavor or safety.

What Goes Well With Turkey Soup?

Turkey soup, with its rich, savory flavors, can be paired with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy lunch or a hearty dinner, here are some ideas for pairing that will elevate your meal:

1. Crusty Bread: A classic pairing for any soup is a slice of warm, crusty bread. A fresh baguette or rustic sourdough works beautifully with turkey soup, perfect for dipping. You can even spread a little butter or olive oil on the bread for added richness.
2. Salads: To balance out the hearty, warm nature of the soup, a crisp salad is an excellent option. A simple green salad with mixed greens, arugula, and a light vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast. You can also add a tangy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a vinegar-based dressing.
3. Cheese: Adding cheese to your turkey soup meal is a no-brainer. A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese over the soup can add depth to the flavor. Alternatively, serve a cheese platter with the soup, offering varieties like brie, goat cheese, or aged cheddar.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips, complement turkey soup perfectly. Their natural sweetness and caramelized edges pair beautifully with the savory soup, adding another layer of flavor to the meal.
5. Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: If you love the idea of bread but want something a little more exciting, garlic bread or buttery breadsticks are a fantastic choice. Their bold, garlicky flavor complements the soup’s mild turkey taste while adding a bit of indulgence.
6. Pickles or Relishes: A small side of pickles or a tangy relish can cut through the richness of the soup, adding a burst of acidity that brightens the dish. You can serve simple cucumber pickles or a tangy mustard relish for an extra zing.

These accompaniments are sure to make your turkey soup experience even more enjoyable and well-rounded.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s turkey soup is a wonderfully flexible dish, offering endless variations that allow you to experiment with different flavors, textures, and ingredients. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or add your own twist, it’s a comforting and satisfying meal.

Best of all, it’s easy to store and even better as leftovers, making it perfect for meal prepping. Pair it with some crusty bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables, and you’ve got yourself a delightful, wholesome meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With these tips and ideas in mind, your turkey soup experience will always be a memorable one.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Typically Used In Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Soup Recipe?

Jamie Oliver’s turkey soup generally includes leftover cooked turkey, olive oil, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, leeks, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, pearl barley or pasta, and chicken or turkey stock. Optional additions include greens like kale or spinach and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Soup Gluten-free?

Yes, to make it gluten-free, simply substitute pearl barley or pasta with a gluten-free alternative like rice or gluten-free pasta. Also, ensure that the stock used is certified gluten-free.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Soup?

The soup takes about 15-20 minutes for prep and 30-45 minutes to cook, depending on the ingredients used, particularly if barley or root vegetables are included.

Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Soup?

Yes, the soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What Is The Best Way To Use Leftover Turkey In This Soup?

Shred or chop the cooked turkey into bite-sized pieces and add it to the soup during the final 10 minutes of cooking, just long enough to heat through without drying out the meat.

Can I Make This Soup In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can adapt it for a slow cooker. Sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add cooked turkey in the last hour.

What Herbs Are Recommended In Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Soup?

Commonly used herbs include fresh thyme, rosemary, parsley, and bay leaves. These add depth and complement the savory flavor of the turkey.

Is This Soup Suitable For Children?

Absolutely. Jamie Oliver’s recipes are often family-friendly. This soup is nourishing and mild, and you can adjust the seasoning and texture to suit young children.

Can I Make This Turkey Soup Dairy-free?

Yes, the soup is naturally dairy-free unless you choose to add cream or butter for richness. Simply omit any dairy ingredients to keep it dairy-free.

How Can I Add More Flavor To Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Soup?

For deeper flavor, use homemade stock, sauté the vegetables until caramelized, and consider adding a splash of white wine or a parmesan rind (if not dairy-free) during cooking. Fresh lemon juice or a spoon of pesto at the end also enhances flavor.