Turkey Lentil Soup

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Turkey Lentil Soup on a chilly winter evening. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a cold night, and I wanted to create a meal that not only filled our stomachs but also warmed our hearts. As I chopped the vegetables and stirred the pot, the rich, savory aroma filled my kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This soup isn’t just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, with every spoonful brimming with nourishing ingredients. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a cozy night in or feed a crowd during the holidays, Turkey Lentil Soup is a perfect choice. With tender lentils, flavorful turkey, and hearty vegetables, it’s a dish that truly brings people together.

Shopping List for Turkey Lentil Soup

This Turkey Lentil Soup is built on a foundation of wholesome ingredients that work harmoniously to create a nutritious and filling meal. Each component adds its own unique flavor and texture, making this soup not only delicious but also packed with health benefits.

• Olive oil: A heart-healthy fat that adds richness to the soup.
• Carrots: Sweet and colorful, they bring a natural sweetness and vibrant hue.
• Celery: Adds crunch and depth of flavor, balancing the sweetness of the carrots.
• Onion: A foundational ingredient that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Garlic: Adds a fragrant aroma and a punch of flavor to the soup.
• Oregano: A fragrant herb that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• Basil: Adds a hint of sweetness and freshness.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors, adjustable to taste.
• Pepper: Brings a touch of heat and depth.
• Broth: The base of the soup, adding richness and flavor.
• Crushed tomatoes: Provides a luscious texture and acidity.
• Lentils: High in protein and fiber, they make the soup hearty and filling.
• Shredded Turkey: A great way to use leftovers, it adds protein and flavor.
• Bay leaves: Infuses the soup with a subtle earthy aroma.
• Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and adds richness.

Cooking Instructions for Turkey Lentil Soup

Creating Turkey Lentil Soup is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Follow these simple steps for a tasty, comforting dish:

1. Prepare the ingredients. Start by washing and rinsing the lentils in cold water. Next, shred the turkey into bite-sized pieces. Chop the carrots, celery, and onion into small, even pieces. Mince the garlic cloves. This prep is essential for an evenly cooked soup.
2. Heat the olive oil. In a large pot, pour in the olive oil and place it over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough. This step is crucial as it helps to sauté the vegetables properly.
3. Sauté the aromatics. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion to the pot. Stir them around, letting them cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the vegetables soften. This process enhances their flavors.
4. Add the garlic. Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. This will release the garlic’s aromatic oils, infusing the soup with a delicious fragrance.
5. Incorporate the rest of the ingredients. Now it’s time to add everything else: the rinsed lentils, broth, crushed tomatoes, shredded turkey, oregano, basil, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together, ensuring the lentils are well-distributed throughout the soup.
6. Bring to a boil. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. This will help all the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Simmer. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium or medium-low and allow the soup to simmer. Let it cook for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. You can check their doneness by tasting a few; they should be soft but not mushy.
8. Adjust seasoning. Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper as desired. This step is important to ensure the soup is flavorful and balanced.
9. Serve and enjoy. Once done, remove the bay leaves, and ladle the Turkey Lentil Soup into bowls. It’s delicious on its own, but feel free to add your favorite toppings.

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about Turkey Lentil Soup is how it can be tailored to your preferences. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Storage: Store any leftover Turkey Lentil Soup in an airtight container. It can last up to four days in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Freezing: Yes! This soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like spinach, kale, or even potatoes. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
• Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a splash of lemon juice for brightness before serving.
• Serving suggestions: Pair Turkey Lentil Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a more complete meal.
• Family-friendly: This soup is a hit with kids! You can blend it to a smooth texture for younger eaters who may not enjoy chunky soups.

Serving This Turkey Lentil Soup

When it’s time to serve your delicious Turkey Lentil Soup, there are a few ways to make the meal even more special:

• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
• Accompany it with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping. It’s perfect for sopping up the flavorful broth.
• Pair with a light salad to balance the meal. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette works wonderfully.
• Occasions: This soup is perfect for cozy family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even meal prep for the week.
• Storage tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, or freeze for longer storage.
• Seasonal pairings: This hearty soup is ideal during the winter months, warming you up on cold days and keeping you satisfied.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Turkey Lentil Soup is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth and nourishment to your table. Its hearty ingredients and simple preparation make it a recipe you’ll want to return to time and again. So why not give it a try tonight? You won’t regret it!

Turkey Lentil Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Turkey Lentil Soup is a hearty and delicious way to warm up on cold days. Packed with protein-rich lentils and tender turkey, it's an easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. Perfect for using up leftovers, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Soups

Cuisine: American

Calories: 290

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 Tbsp Olive oil
• 4 pieces Carrots, chopped
• 2-3 stalks Celery, chopped
• 1 small Onion, small diced
• 3-4 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1.5 tsp Oregano
• 0.5 tsp Basil
• 0.5 tsp Salt, more or less as desired
• 0.5 tsp Pepper
• 8 cups Broth
• 14 oz Crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups Lentils (uncooked), rinsed
• 2.5 cups Shredded Turkey, or cubed
• 2 leaves Bay leaves
• 3 Tbsp Tomato paste

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Saucepan
• Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Prepare the ingredients by washing and rinsing the lentils in cold water. Shred the turkey into bite-sized pieces. Chop the carrots, celery, and onion into small, even pieces. Mince the garlic cloves.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
3. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
5. Incorporate the rinsed lentils, broth, crushed tomatoes, shredded turkey, oregano, basil, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium or medium-low and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until the lentils are tender.
7. Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper if needed.
8. Lastly, remove the bay leaves and ladle the Turkey Lentil Soup into bowls.

Notes

No extra notes available.

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Meet Simone Patel

Food is the ultimate connector, and I approach every recipe with the host in mind. I focus on creating meals that scale well for crowds and make entertaining effortless. I cooked and tested this meal to ensure it holds up beautifully from the stove to the serving platter, ready for your guests.