Turkey soup

Turkey soup is a perfect choice for chilly days or for moments when we want to indulge in a comforting, flavorful dish. This recipe will not only bring warmth to your soul but will also transform a farm-raised turkey into an unforgettable delicacy. In the following steps, I will guide you step by step to achieve a tasty, yellow, and rich soup that you will love.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 turkey thigh (approximately 1-1.5 kg)
- 1 whole onion
- 2 large carrots
- 1 piece of parsnip
- 1/4 celery
- Salt, to taste
- 1 small dried chili pepper
- Peppercorns, to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Noodles (approximately 200 g)

A brief history of turkey soup
Turkey soup has deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures, often prepared for holidays or family gatherings. Turkey, a versatile and nutritious ingredient, is considered a symbol of hospitality, and the soup made from this ingredient is not only full of nutrients but also filled with cherished memories. This recipe combines tradition with innovation, bringing a touch of warmth to every bowl.

Step by step: Preparing turkey soup

1. Washing and preparing the meat: Start by washing the turkey thigh well under cold running water. Cut the thigh into two pieces for more even cooking.

2. Boiling the meat: Place the turkey pieces in a large pot, add cold water and a pinch of salt. Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and remove the foam that forms on the surface. This process will eliminate impurities and ensure a clear and tasty soup.

3. Adding spices: Do not discard the first water! This is key to preserving the rich flavor of the soup. Add the peppercorns and continue to simmer on low heat.

4. Preparing the vegetables: While the soup is simmering, peel and wash the vegetables. Cut the carrots and parsnip into sticks, and the celery into cubes. You can leave the onion whole for a more intense flavor.

5. Adding the vegetables: When the meat is halfway cooked, add the chopped vegetables and the onion. Season with salt and finely chopped dried chili pepper for a touch of spice. Let all the ingredients simmer together until the meat and vegetables become tender.

6. Straining the soup: When everything is well cooked, take a large strainer and place it over an empty pot. Carefully pour the soup through the strainer to separate the liquid from the meat and vegetables. The meat can be used later for a salad, and the vegetables can be added back to the soup or served separately.

7. Finishing the soup: Put the strained soup back on the heat and bring it to a boil. In the meantime, cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Once they are ready, strain them and run them under cold water to stop the cooking process.

8. Serving: Add the noodles to the soup, along with the vegetables (or just the carrots, if you prefer) and mix well. Serve the soup hot, sprinkled with chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Useful tips:
- Choosing the meat: Always use quality turkey meat, preferably raised naturally, to achieve an authentic taste.
- Vegetarian option: If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the turkey meat with mushrooms and various vegetables, keeping the same cooking technique.
- Storing the soup: The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for later consumption.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This turkey soup is not only delicious but also healthy. A serving of soup contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of meat and vegetables used. It is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, having benefits for the immune system and overall health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can replace turkey with chicken or beef, but the cooking time will change.
- What vegetables can I add? You can experiment with vegetables like zucchini, peas, or even potatoes, depending on your preferences.
- How can I make the soup spicier? Add more chili pepper or even a teaspoon of hot sauce during cooking.

Serving suggestions:
You can enjoy this turkey soup with a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons for an extra texture. A fresh green salad as an appetizer will perfectly complement this comforting meal.

In conclusion, turkey soup is a classic dish, full of flavor and warmth, perfect for enjoying with family. I encourage you to try it and personalize your recipe with your favorite vegetables and spices. Enjoy your meal!