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I discovered this Turkey Wild Rice Soup years ago when trying to use up Thanksgiving leftovers and it's become my go to comfort meal. The combination of tender turkey wild rice and rich creamy broth creates pure magic in a bowl. My family begs for this soup as soon as the weather turns chilly.
Why This Soup Became My Favorite
After years of experimenting with leftover turkey recipes this soup has earned its spot as our family tradition. One pot easy cleanup and those amazing herbs with cream make it feel like a warm hug. Plus it uses up all that holiday turkey in the most delicious way.
Everything You Need
- Cooked Turkey: 2 cups shredded or diced I love using the dark meat for extra flavor.
- Wild Rice: ¾ cup uncooked give it a good rinse first.
- Mirepoix: 1 cup each of diced onion celery and carrots this is your flavor base.
- Chicken Broth: 6 cups I use low sodium so I can control the salt.
- Thyme: 1 tsp dried or 2 tsp fresh from my garden when available.
- White Wine: ½ cup optional but adds amazing depth.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup this makes everything silky smooth.
- Baking Soda: ¼ tsp my secret for perfectly tender rice.
- Salt & Pepper: Add gradually and taste as you go.
Let's Make Some Soup
- Start with Your Base
- Get those veggies going in your pot with a bit of oil until they smell amazing about 5-7 minutes.
- Build the Flavors
- Pour in that wine if using let it bubble then add your broth and thyme.
- Rice Time
- Add your rinsed rice and my little baking soda trick. Let it all simmer covered for 45 minutes giving it a stir now and then.
- Turkey Goes In
- Now add your turkey and let it warm through for about 10 minutes.
- Finishing Touch
- Stir in that lovely cream taste and adjust your seasonings. Time to enjoy.
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My Kitchen Secrets
Trust me on this one skip the instant rice and go for real wild rice. I learned the hard way that regular stirring prevents sticking. And don't skip deglazing with wine it adds this amazing depth you can't get any other way.
Switch Things Up
Sometimes I use leftover rotisserie chicken when I don't have turkey. Last week I tossed in some broccoli and it was fantastic. The soup works great with any rice but wild rice has that special nutty flavor we love.
Perfect Pairings
In my house we always serve this with crusty bread for dunking. A simple green salad on the side makes it feel like a complete meal. My husband says it's better than any restaurant soup he's ever had.
Keeping It Fresh
This soup stays good in the fridge for about 2 days. Just warm it up slowly and maybe add a splash of cream if needed. I don't freeze it though the rice gets weird when thawed.
Plan Ahead
Want to make this for guests? Do everything except adding the cream store it in the fridge then just heat and add cream when you're ready to serve. Works like a charm every time.
Common Questions
My readers always ask if they can use chicken instead of turkey absolutely yes. The wild rice cooks right in the soup no need to pre cook it. And that leftover turkey Keep it no longer than 4 days in the fridge before using.
The Baking Soda Secret
I discovered this trick from my grandmother adding just a pinch of baking soda helps break down the rice faster. It's like magic and nobody can ever figure out how I get the rice so perfectly tender.
Getting the Rice Right
The key to perfect rice is patience. I've made this soup hundreds of times and rushing the rice is always a mistake. Keep it at a gentle simmer and you'll get that perfect tender but firm texture.
Wine Pairings
Love having this soup with a glass of buttery Chardonnay. The creaminess pairs perfectly. For non wine drinkers sparkling water with lemon adds a nice contrast to the richness.
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Holiday Leftovers Magic
This soup saved me from leftover burnout after last Thanksgiving. Now I actually look forward to transforming holiday extras. Sometimes I even toss in leftover roasted veggies or use the turkey gravy in place of some broth.
Setting the Mood
Nothing beats enjoying this soup on a cold evening with some soft music playing and candles lit. I keep fresh bread warm in the oven and serve it in my favorite pottery bowls. It's become our family's cozy night tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why add baking soda?
- Baking soda breaks down tough rice fibers and reduces cooking time. Don't skip this ingredient for best results.
- → How do I adjust the thickness?
- Add more broth if too thick, or mix flour/cornstarch with cold cream to thicken if too thin.
- → Can I use fresh turkey?
- Yes, you can cook turkey specifically for this recipe. Just ensure it's fully cooked before adding to the soup.
- → How long does it keep?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- → What type of wine works best?
- Use a good quality, drinkable dry white wine that you would enjoy drinking.