Description
This Lemony Turkey Rice Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender shredded turkey with hearty rice and a bright lemon twist. Perfect for using up leftover turkey, this soup is infused with aromatic herbs and fresh vegetables, creating a warm and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey broth
- 1 ½ cups cooked turkey, shredded
- ¾ cup uncooked white rice (or brown rice)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables have softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 2: Add the Broth and Rice
Pour in the chicken or turkey broth, followed by the shredded turkey, uncooked rice, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for approximately 20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.
- Step 3: Add Lemon and Season
After the rice has cooked, stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice to brighten up the flavors. Season the soup with salt and pepper to your preference. If you desire a more pronounced lemon flavor, you can add extra lemon juice.
- Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Remove the bay leaf from the soup and discard it. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired. Serve the soup hot and enjoy this flavorful, comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute white rice with brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber; note that brown rice may require a longer cooking time.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure that your broth is certified gluten-free.
- Leftover turkey works perfectly in this recipe, making it an excellent way to use up holiday leftovers.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste preference to balance acidity and brightness.
- Adding extra herbs such as fresh thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor complexity.
