Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  • Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
  • Dice the onion, slice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic.
  • If using fresh turkey, cook it and shred or dice it. If using leftovers, ensure they’re cut into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large soup pot over medium heat.
  • Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
  • Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Sweet Potatoes and Spices

  • Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, thyme, bay leaf, and cumin (if using).
  • Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Rice

  • Pour in 6 cups of chicken or turkey broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  • Stir in the uncooked rice. If you’re using brown or wild rice, note that it will require a longer cooking time.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

  • Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the soup to simmer for 20–30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the rice is fully cooked. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.

Step 6: Add the Turkey

  • Once the rice and sweet potatoes are cooked, stir in the cooked turkey. Allow it to heat through for 5–10 minutes.
  • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

  • Remove the bay leaf before serving.
  • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Variations:

  1. Add Greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
  2. Use Quinoa or Barley: Substitute the rice with quinoa or barley for a different texture and flavor.
  3. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
  4. Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream for a creamy version of the soup.

Tips for Perfect Turkey and Sweet Potato Soup:

  1. Use Leftovers Wisely: This recipe is ideal for leftover turkey from a roast dinner or holiday meal.
  2. Cook Rice Separately: If you plan to store leftovers, cook the rice separately and add it to individual servings to prevent it from absorbing too much broth.
  3. Adjust the Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to thin it out to your liking.

Conclusion

Turkey and Sweet Potato Soup with Rice is a delicious, nutrient-packed meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any time of year. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a creative way to use up leftovers or simply want a wholesome dinner option, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy a warm, hearty bowl tonight!