Turkey soup a la Greek! A delight!!!

Turkey Soup a'la Greek - A Comforting Delight

Turkey Soup a'la Greek is a traditional recipe that combines the rich flavors of turkey meat with the freshness of vegetables and aromatic herbs. This soup is perfect for cool days, offering not only a savory taste but also a dose of essential nutrients. Made with simple yet flavorful ingredients, Turkey Soup a'la Greek transforms into a feast for the whole family. Moreover, it is a healthy choice, rich in proteins and vitamins, that can be enjoyed at any time of the year.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 70-75 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 2 turkey wings
- 2 turkey drumsticks
- 2 medium onions
- 4 carrots
- 1 celery
- 1 parsnip
- 2 red bell peppers
- 100 g rice
- 3 egg yolks
- 400 g yogurt
- juice from 2 lemons or 1/2 teaspoon of lemon salt
- 2 bunches of fresh dill
- salt, to taste
- 50 ml oil

Steps for preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the turkey wings and drumsticks well under cold running water. This step is essential to remove any impurities. Place the meat in a large pot and add 3-4 liters of cold water. Sprinkle salt to taste. Place the pot over medium heat and let it reach a boiling point. Begin skimming off the foam that forms on the surface. This step will ensure a clear and appetizing soup.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, peel and wash the vegetables. Cut the onions, carrots, celery, parsnip, and bell peppers into small cubes. These vegetables will not only add flavor to the soup but also a pleasant texture.

3. Boiling the vegetables: Once the meat has been skimmed and started to boil, add the chopped vegetables to the pot. Let them boil together with the meat for about 30 minutes, until the vegetables become tender.

4. Adding the rice: After the vegetables are nearly cooked, rinse the rice under cold water. This step helps to remove excess starch, preventing the grains from sticking together. Add the rice to the soup pot and let it boil for another 15 minutes, until the rice is well cooked.

5. Preparing the yogurt mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with the yogurt. Gradually add the lemon juice, stirring continuously. This mixture will give the soup a creamy texture and a pleasant acidity. To prevent the mixture from curdling, add 2-3 ladles of hot soup to the bowl and stir constantly.

6. Combining the ingredients: Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and add the yogurt and egg yolk mixture, stirring continuously to achieve a smooth consistency. It is important not to put the soup back on the heat after this step, but you can gently reheat it if necessary, being careful not to boil it.

7. Finalizing the soup: Add the finely chopped fresh dill and oil, stirring gently. The dill will add a fresh and vibrant flavor, while the oil will provide a touch of smoothness.

8. Serving: Turkey Soup a'la Greek is ready to serve! You can garnish it with a few sprigs of fresh dill and serve it warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread. This soup pairs perfectly with a vegetable salad or warm polenta, which will highlight the delicate flavors of the dish.

Useful tips:
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add some spices like pepper or bay leaves during boiling.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute turkey meat with chicken.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavor improves as it cools and the flavors meld.

Nutritional benefits:
Turkey soup is rich in proteins, B vitamins, and essential minerals, contributing to a healthy diet. Additionally, the vegetables add fiber, aiding digestion and maintaining intestinal health.

Possible variations:
If you are looking for variations, you can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans. Adding spices like turmeric or ginger can provide an exotic taste and additional health benefits.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen turkey meat?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking.
2. How long should I boil the soup?
The soup should boil for about 45-50 minutes, but the time may vary depending on the size of the meat and vegetable pieces.
3. Can I add another type of grain instead of rice?
Of course! You can use quinoa or bulgur, but the cooking time will vary.

In conclusion, Turkey Soup a'la Greek is not just a delicious dish, but also a recipe that combines tradition with health. Whether enjoyed with loved ones or prepared for a festive meal, this soup will always bring smiles to the faces of those who taste it. Enjoy your meal!