Here are all of my cooking tips for turkey stock, along with some ideas for making delicious turkey soup with it. And one of my favorite Thanksgiving traditions is making soup out of the leftover turkey carcass by making turkey stock!
I’m sharing this updated post in case you need it when a large turkey carcass is staring you in the face because Thanksgiving is almost here and many of you will have leftover turkey!
Making the house smell good with a large roasting pan of turkey bones and vegetables simmering on the stove is one of my favorite Thanksgiving traditions. Additionally, many families have a Thanksgiving tradition of making turkey soup, which, in my opinion, cannot be made without turkey stock.
I’ve been using my leftover turkey for years to make stock, but I’m not a stock connoisseur; I believe Penzeys Turkey Soup Base works well in both turkey gravy and stock. However, if you didn’t order that in time or you don’t want to use it, continue reading as there are still ways to improve the flavor of turkey stock.
Unleashing the Flavorful Potential of Leftover Turkey Stock
Ah, Thanksgiving. A time for family, friends, and, of course, copious amounts of food. But what happens to all that leftover turkey stock? Don’t let it languish in the back of your fridge! This golden elixir is a culinary treasure trove, waiting to be unleashed in a myriad of delicious dishes
From Soups to Sauces: A Culinary Journey with Turkey Stock
Turkey stock is like a culinary chameleon adapting to a variety of culinary creations. Let’s embark on a flavor-filled adventure, exploring the diverse ways you can utilize this versatile ingredient:
1. Soups:
- Turkey Noodle Soup: A classic comfort food, this heartwarming soup is perfect for a chilly day. Simply add noodles, your favorite vegetables, and a splash of cream for a rich and satisfying meal.
- Turkey Tortilla Soup: Spice things up with this vibrant Mexican-inspired soup. Add corn, black beans, and a dollop of sour cream for a fiesta of flavors.
- Turkey and Wild Rice Soup: This hearty soup is packed with protein and nutrients. Add wild rice, mushrooms, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a satisfying and healthy meal.
2. Risotto:
- Turkey and Mushroom Risotto: This creamy Italian dish is elevated by the addition of flavorful turkey stock. Sauté mushrooms, onions, and garlic, then add Arborio rice and gradually stir in the stock until the rice is perfectly cooked.
- Turkey and Spinach Risotto: A lighter option, this risotto is packed with fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese. The turkey stock adds a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
3. Gravies and Sauces:
- Turkey Gravy: No Thanksgiving feast is complete without a rich and flavorful gravy. Use your turkey stock as the base, adding flour, butter, and your favorite seasonings for a gravy that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Turkey Pan Sauce: Don’t let those delicious pan drippings go to waste! Deglaze the pan with turkey stock, scraping up all the browned bits, and add a touch of cream or butter for a silky smooth sauce.
4. Other Culinary Delights:
- Turkey Pot Pie: This comforting dish is a perfect way to use up leftover turkey and vegetables. Use the turkey stock to create a flavorful gravy, then layer it with tender turkey, vegetables, and a flaky pie crust.
- Turkey Tetrazzini: This creamy pasta bake is a crowd-pleaser. Combine cooked pasta, turkey, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce made with turkey stock and Parmesan cheese. Top with breadcrumbs and bake until golden brown.
- Turkey à la King: This classic dish is a delicious way to use up leftover turkey. Sauté mushrooms, onions, and peppers, then add cooked turkey, peas, and a creamy sauce made with turkey stock. Serve over toast or rice for a satisfying meal.
Beyond the Kitchen: Unexpected Uses for Turkey Stock
Turkey stock’s versatility extends beyond the culinary realm. Here are a few unexpected ways you can use this versatile ingredient:
- Pet Food Enhancer: Add a splash of turkey stock to your pet’s food for a boost of flavor and hydration.
- Plant Fertilizer: Diluted turkey stock can be used as a natural fertilizer for your plants. The nutrients in the stock will help your plants thrive.
- Hair Rinse: Turkey stock can be used as a natural hair rinse to add shine and volume to your locks.
So, the next time you have leftover turkey stock, don’t just toss it aside. Embrace its culinary potential and unleash its flavorful magic in a variety of dishes. From comforting soups to creamy sauces, the possibilities are endless. Let your creativity soar and discover the endless culinary possibilities that await with turkey stock.
Tips for How to Make Turkey Stock:
(This is only a summary of the steps for the recipe; please scroll down for complete printable recipe. Alternatively, you can access the entire recipe by clicking the JUMP TO RECIPE link at the top of the page. ).
- Start with turkey scraps, including things like skin and bones.
- Turkey “giblets,” which are frequently packed inside the bird, should not be added.
- Add a generous amount of onion, celery, and carrots.
- I chop the vegetables fairly large so that they are easier to remove with a spoon.
- Add the onion, carrots, celery, and leftover turkey bones to a soup pot. Sprinkle in some sage and thyme, as well as a small amount of Penzey’s Turkey Soup Base (affiliate link). Then, cover with water.
- I’ve also used Better than Bouillon Turkey Base (affiliate link), which is available in many grocery stores, in place of Penzeys Turkey Soup Base. (Edit: Better than Bouillon no longer makes the claim that its products are gluten-free, according to Shirley from Gluten Free Easily.) ).
- Simmer the stock directly in the large roasting pan you used to cook your turkey if you have one.
- Simmer and reduce the stock for the entire day, or until the flavor reaches your desired level of concentration.
- After that, strain it and store it in freezer-safe containers so you can eat turkey soup all winter long!
What ingredients do you need for turkey stock?
(This is only a list of ingredients; please scroll down for complete printable recipe. Alternatively, you can access the entire recipe by clicking the JUMP TO RECIPE link at the top of the page. ).
How To Make Turkey Stock – Turkey Broth Recipe
Why do you make Turkey stock?
But the main reason I make turkey stock is for gravy. If you can get ahead of the game plan and make your own turkey stock, you’ll have the best flavor base for your Thanksgiving gravy. Your turkey and your guests will thank you.
What are the health benefits of ground turkey?
Ground turkey has multiple benefits. It is a good source of minerals, and B vitamins, rich in proteins, low in fat and it is lower in calories than common turkey.
Can turkey bones be used for stock?
Because turkeys are a larger bird, the leftover bones and bits of meat from one are plenty enough for making stock. When preparing your bird for roasting, remember to save the neck bone for stock-making too. Stock- and broth-making is typically dependent on collagen from the bones for thickening, and even roasted bones contain a fair amount.
Can you use a turkey neck for Turkey stock?
Sometimes your whole turkey will be supplied with the turkey neck. They can be very tough to eat, hence why they aren’t typically used. However, they bring a lot of flavor when cooked for long periods of time, which makes them ideal for homemade turkey stock and turkey broth. Is turkey stock the same as turkey broth?