TURKEY SOUP

Turkey soup – a symbol of culinary tradition

Turkey soup is a recipe that combines the rich flavors of meat with the freshness of vegetables, offering a comforting and nourishing dish. This recipe has deep roots in culinary culture, often prepared on holidays or family gatherings. With every spoonful, you'll feel enveloped by the warmth of a family meal, surrounded by loved ones.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 8

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 turkey (approximately 1.5 - 2 kg)
- 1 medium celery
- 2 carrots
- 3 bell peppers (preferably in different colors for a vibrant look)
- 3 medium onions
- 1 parsnip (or cauliflower, if you prefer a sweeter flavor)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- salt (to taste)
- 1 packet of Delicat (or another preferred seasoning)
- 200 ml tomato puree
- 500 ml borscht (or to taste)

Nutritional information:
Turkey soup is a healthy choice, rich in proteins and vitamins, thanks to the fresh vegetables. One serving (approximately 250 ml) contains about 150 calories, providing a balanced intake of nutrients. Turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, while the vegetables add essential fiber and vitamins, contributing to a healthy diet.

Preparing turkey soup – step-by-step guide:

1. Preparing the turkey:
- Start by washing the turkey well under cold running water. It is important to remove all impurities for a clean taste.
- Cut the turkey into smaller pieces for even cooking. You can use just the breast or thighs, depending on your preference.

2. Boiling the meat:
- Place the turkey pieces in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil.
- At the first boil, discard the water. This will help remove impurities and make the soup clearer.
- Add fresh water and let it simmer over medium heat.

3. Preparing the vegetables:
- Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables. Peel and chop the celery, carrots, bell peppers, and onions. I recommend cutting them into large pieces, as they will soften during boiling and add flavor to the soup.
- If using parsnip, peel it and cut it into suitable pieces.

4. Adding the vegetables:
- When the meat is half-cooked (about 30 minutes), add all the prepared vegetables.
- Let them simmer together with the meat for another 20-25 minutes, until they become tender and aromatic.

5. Seasoning the soup:
- Five minutes before turning off the heat, add the tomato puree, borscht, and Delicat. These ingredients will enhance the soup's flavor.
- Taste and adjust the salt if necessary.

6. Finishing and serving:
- When the soup is ready, turn off the heat and add the chopped parsley and lovage. This will add a fresh and fragrant note to the dish.
- Serve the soup hot, in deep bowls, and don't forget to add a spoonful of sour cream for extra creaminess if desired.

Tips and suggestions:
- For an even richer flavor, you can add a few peppercorns and bay leaves during the meat boiling.
- If you want a spicier version, you can add a bit of hot pepper or chili sauce.
- Turkey soup pairs wonderfully with fresh bread or polenta.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
- Of course! The soup will have a similar taste but will be less rich.

2. How can I store the soup for several days?
- Keep the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be consumed for 3-4 days. You can freeze small portions for occasional use.

3. What other vegetables can I add?
- Potatoes, zucchini, or green peas can be added to diversify the recipe.

Serving combinations:
Turkey soup is perfect alongside a fresh vegetable salad or a cabbage salad. A good drink would be a dry white wine or freshly made lemonade, which will perfectly complement the intense flavors of the soup.

Turkey soup is not just a dish; it's a culinary experience! Whether you enjoy it at a holiday meal or on an ordinary day, this recipe will bring you comfort and joy. Don't hesitate to experiment and personalize the recipe to your tastes!