Cozy Turkey and Wild Rice Soup: A Perfect Post-Holiday Comfort

As the holiday season winds down, the chill in the air makes us crave something warm and comforting. Turkey and Wild Rice Soup is the perfect way to use up leftover turkey while creating a hearty and nutritious meal that the whole family will love. This soup combines tender turkey, nutty wild rice, and a medley of vegetables in a flavorful broth. It’s a satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out, making it ideal for those cold winter days.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for creamier soup)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Yield and Serving Size:

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings, with each serving size being 1 cup (240 ml).

Instructions:

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Cook the Rice: Add the rinsed wild rice to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, and add the bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
3. Add the Turkey: Stir in the shredded turkey and let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream during this step.
4. Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 18g

Storage Tips:

This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it later.