Delia Smith’s Turkey Soup Recipe

Delia Smith’s Turkey Soup is more than just a way to repurpose leftovers-it’s a comforting, full-bodied broth that carries the elegance and heartiness of traditional English cooking. Known for her practical approach and reliable results, Delia takes what many would discard-the carcass and scraps of roast turkey-and transforms them into a golden, rich stock that becomes the soul of this soup.

The result is a soup that’s deeply savory, peppered with soft vegetables and tender grains of rice or barley, and brightened by subtle herbs. It’s not just a dish; it’s a ritual of post-festive nourishment and waste-not culinary philosophy.

Delia Smith’s Turkey Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

The beauty of Delia’s Turkey Soup lies in its flexibility and the use of humble, wholesome ingredients. Here’s a typical lineup:

For the stock:

• Turkey carcass (with some meat still attached)
• 1 onion, halved (no need to peel)
• 1 carrot, roughly chopped
• 1 celery stalk, roughly chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• A few black peppercorns
• Fresh parsley stalks (optional)
• Cold water to cover

For the soup:

• 1 tbsp butter or a glug of olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 50-75g rice or pearl barley
• Leftover turkey meat, shredded
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Chopped fresh parsley or thyme (for garnish)

Equipment Needed

Nothing fancy required-this is rustic kitchen magic. You’ll need:

• A large stock pot or deep saucepan
• A slotted spoon or skimmer
• A fine mesh sieve or colander (lined with cheesecloth if possible)
• A medium saucepan (for making the final soup)
• A ladle and wooden spoon
• Sharp knife and chopping board

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Delia Smith’s Turkey Soup

Step 1: Make the stock

1. Place the turkey carcass and any reserved bones into a large stockpot.
2. Add onion, carrot, celery, bay leaf, peppercorns, and parsley stalks.
3. Pour in enough cold water to cover the bones. Slowly bring to a simmer.
4. Skim off any foam that rises, then reduce heat. Cover loosely and simmer for 2-3 hours.
5. Strain the stock through a sieve into a clean bowl or pot. Discard solids. Skim off excess fat from the surface.

Step 2: Prepare the soup

1. In a clean pan, melt the butter or heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook gently for 10-15 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in the rice or barley and pour in your strained turkey stock.
4. Simmer until the grain is tender (about 20 minutes for rice, longer for barley).
5. Add the shredded turkey meat and heat through.
6. Season well with salt and pepper. Stir in chopped herbs just before serving.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

1. Layer the flavor: Roast the turkey bones in the oven before boiling to deepen the flavor of the stock.
2. Use barley for a more rustic texture and added nutrition-it makes the soup more filling.
3. Add a squeeze of lemon or a dash of white wine vinegar at the end to brighten the flavor.
4. Avoid over-seasoning early-reduce the stock slightly while cooking the grains, and season at the end for best balance.
5. Freeze any extra stock for future soups or stews-it’s liquid gold in the freezer.

Delia Smith’s Turkey Soup is a celebration of thoughtful cooking, where nothing goes to waste and flavor is built layer by layer with care. It’s not just a recipe-it’s a warm hug in a bowl, echoing the essence of the holiday season even days later. Whether you’re savoring it by the fire or serving it as a starter for a winter gathering, this soup remains a testament to Delia’s legacy: simple ingredients, cooked well, with love.

Simple Twists On Delia Smith’s Turkey Soup Recipe

Delia Smith’s turkey soup recipe is a comforting classic, especially during the winter months when the need for hearty meals is ever-present. The original recipe is rich with flavors from the turkey stock, vegetables, and seasonings, making it an excellent base for creative modifications. Here are a few simple yet effective twists to elevate the dish:

1. Add a Splash of Cream: If you love creamy soups, a splash of double cream or coconut milk can transform the texture and make it feel more luxurious. Coconut milk, in particular, will add a slightly exotic, sweet flavor that complements the turkey perfectly.
2. Incorporate Fresh Herbs: While Delia’s recipe may call for standard seasonings, try using fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage to deepen the flavor profile. Fresh herbs release more aromatic oils than dried ones and can add an earthy richness that brings the soup to life. You could also use a sprig of rosemary as a garnish for extra flavor.
3. Spicy Kick: Add a bit of heat with some fresh chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you want to explore a different kind of spice, consider using smoked paprika, which will give the soup a subtle smokiness without overpowering the other ingredients.
4. Crispy Bacon or Pancetta: Adding crispy bacon bits or pancetta can provide a wonderful salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth soup. This twist works particularly well if you’ve made the soup with turkey leftovers from a roast dinner.
5. Roast the Veggies: Instead of simply boiling the vegetables in the stock, try roasting them first. Roasting carrots, parsnips, and even the onion brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
6. Lemon Zest or Juice: For a refreshing, zesty twist, consider adding a little bit of lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice towards the end of cooking. It brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the turkey and stock.
7. Swap the Stock: Delia’s original recipe likely uses a turkey or chicken stock, but why not get creative by using vegetable stock or even beef stock for a deeper, more intense flavor? A rich beef stock would complement the turkey beautifully, adding complexity.
8. Add Grains or Legumes: To make your turkey soup heartier, add some cooked barley, quinoa, or lentils. These grains and legumes provide additional texture and nutrition, turning your soup into a more filling meal.

By experimenting with these twists, you can create your own personalized version of Delia Smith’s turkey soup, perfectly suited to your taste preferences.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers is an essential part of making the most out of your meals, especially when it comes to soups, which often taste even better the next day. Here’s a guide on how to store your turkey soup properly to ensure freshness and safety:

1. Cool Before Storing: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before placing it in the fridge or freezer. Hot soup can raise the temperature of your fridge, which can encourage bacterial growth. For safety, try to cool it down within two hours.
2. Use Airtight Containers: For both the fridge and freezer, make sure to store your soup in airtight containers. This will help preserve its freshness and prevent odors from other foods in the fridge from affecting the soup. Glass containers are an excellent choice because they are non-reactive and provide a clear view of your food.
3. Refrigeration: If you plan on eating the soup within 3-4 days, store it in the fridge. It should be stored in shallow containers to ensure it cools down evenly. Always label the containers with the date it was made so you know when it needs to be eaten.
4. Freezing: If you want to keep the soup longer, freezing is a great option. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. To freeze, divide the soup into individual portions, which will make it easier to thaw only the amount you need. Ensure the soup is fully cooled before placing it in freezer-safe bags or containers. To save space, freezer bags are ideal-just lay them flat in the freezer until they solidify.
5. Thawing and Reheating: When you’re ready to eat the soup, the best way to thaw it is overnight in the fridge. If you’re in a hurry, you can use a microwave or stovetop to thaw it, but make sure it’s heated through thoroughly. Stir the soup occasionally while reheating to ensure an even temperature throughout.
6. Don’t Refreeze: Once thawed and reheated, it’s not recommended to refreeze turkey soup. Freezing and thawing multiple times can degrade the texture and flavor of the soup, not to mention increasing the risk of bacterial growth.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your turkey soup stays delicious and safe to eat for days after its initial cooking.

What To Eat With Delia Smith’s Turkey Soup?

Turkey soup is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can take it to the next level. Here are some perfect accompaniments to enjoy alongside Delia Smith’s turkey soup:

1. Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread is always a winner with any soup. You can opt for a classic French baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough-each will soak up the delicious broth perfectly. If you want to elevate it, you can toast the bread and rub it with a garlic clove for an extra punch of flavor.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The timeless combination of soup and grilled cheese is hard to beat. The gooey cheese paired with crispy, buttery toast is a wonderful contrast to the richness of the turkey soup. Try a sharp cheddar for more depth of flavor or mix it up with a smoked cheese for something a little different.
3. Salad: A simple, fresh salad can balance the richness of the soup. Consider a green salad with mixed greens, a tangy vinaigrette, and perhaps some roasted nuts or seeds for crunch. Adding a few slices of avocado or a handful of feta cheese can introduce more creaminess to contrast with the soup’s texture.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables make an excellent pairing, especially during the colder months. Roasted root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips bring a natural sweetness and earthiness that complements the savory flavors of the turkey soup.
5. Cheese and Crackers: For a lighter side or an appetizer, a platter of cheese and crackers is an easy and satisfying addition. Opt for creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which will add richness, or choose a tangy blue cheese to introduce a sharp contrast.
6. Stuffing or Dressing: If you’re looking to recreate the flavors of a Thanksgiving meal, why not serve your turkey soup with some stuffing or dressing on the side? Whether it’s a classic bread stuffing or a savory cornbread version, the stuffing’s herby flavors complement the turkey perfectly.
7. Roasted Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of the corn, combined with the rich roasted garlic butter, will enhance the overall experience of the soup. The buttery finish on the corn balances the savory turkey broth beautifully.

With these options, your meal will feel like a feast, and the turkey soup will shine even more.

Conclusion

Delia Smith’s turkey soup recipe is a fantastic dish to work with, offering a delicious, hearty base that can easily be tweaked to fit your tastes. By adding simple twists like extra cream, fresh herbs, or roasted vegetables, you can create your own version of the soup that keeps it exciting and flavorful.

When it comes to storing leftovers, a bit of care goes a long way in ensuring the soup remains fresh and tasty. Whether served alongside crusty bread, a salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich, Delia’s turkey soup can easily be turned into a fulfilling, memorable meal. Try out these suggestions and make this comforting soup your go-to recipe every season!.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Delia Smith’s Turkey Soup?

Delia Smith’s turkey soup requires simple yet flavorful ingredients. The main ingredients include leftover turkey (from a roast), stock (either homemade or store-bought), carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and herbs such as thyme and bay leaves. You will also need olive oil or butter, and some optional additions like noodles or rice for extra heartiness.

How Can I Make The Turkey Soup Thicker, If I Prefer A Heartier Consistency?

If you prefer a thicker consistency for Delia Smith’s turkey soup, there are several ways to achieve this. You can blend a portion of the soup to create a creamier base, or add some mashed potatoes or a flour-based roux to thicken the broth. Alternatively, you can simmer the soup for a longer time to reduce the liquid and concentrate the flavors.

Can Delia Smith’s Turkey Soup Be Frozen, And If So, How Should I Store It?

Yes, Delia Smith’s turkey soup can be frozen for later use. To store it, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags.

Ensure you leave some room for expansion when freezing. The soup can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.