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Writer's pictureThe Hungry Golfer

Leftover Christmas Turkey Stew: Cozy Holiday Revival of Your Turkey Carcass


A steaming bowl of leftover turkey stew topped with fresh parsley, showcasing chunks of vegetables in a rich broth.

As the holiday season winds down and the Christmas turkey carcass hibernates in your freezer, let’s transform it into a hearty, high-protein turkey stew. Perfect for curling up on the couch; this stew combines comfort, nutrition, and winter coziness in every bowl.


Ingredients


For the Stock:

  • 1 leftover turkey carcass

  • 10 cups water

  • 1 large onion, quartered

  • 2 carrots, roughly chopped

  • 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed

  • 2 bay leaves

  • A few sprigs of fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)

  • 1 tsp black peppercorns

  • 1 tsp salt


For the Stew:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 large onion, diced

  • 2 carrots, sliced

  • 2 celery stalks, sliced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 cups cooked turkey meat, shredded

  • 1 cup frozen green peas

  • 1 cup white beans (cooked or canned, drained and rinsed)

  • 1 cup cooked quinoa (optional, for extra protein)

  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

  • 1 cup diced sweet potato (or squash, for added flavor)

  • 4 cups turkey stock (from above)

  • 1 tsp dried rosemary (or 1 sprig fresh rosemary)

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)


Instructions


Make the Stock

  1. Thaw the Carcass: If frozen, let the turkey carcass thaw in the fridge overnight or in cold water for a few hours.

  2. Simmer: Place the carcass in a large stockpot. Add water, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, peppercorns, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 2-3 hours.

  3. Strain: Remove the carcass and strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve. Let it cool and skim off excess fat if desired.


Build the Stew

  1. Prep the Veggies: While the stock simmers, chop your vegetables and gather your ingredients.

  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened (about 5 minutes).

  3. Add Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes and sweet potatoes, cooking for another 3-4 minutes.

  4. Pour in Stock: Add 4 cups of turkey stock and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender (about 15-20 minutes).

  5. Add Protein and Seasoning: Stir in shredded turkey, white beans, peas, and cooked quinoa (if using). Season with rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes to meld the flavors.

  6. Taste and Adjust: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed.


Serve It Up

  • Ladle the stew into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve piping hot. It’s perfect with a slice of crusty bread or a side of crackers to soak up the goodness.


Why This Stew is a Hole-In-One


  • High-Protein Heroes: Turkey, beans, and quinoa pack a nutritional punch, keeping you fueled for your off-season training.

  • Winter Warmth: The broth is rich, hearty, and satisfying—perfect for those frigid winter evenings.

  • Sustainably Delicious: Repurposing your turkey carcass reduces waste while elevating leftovers into something spectacular.


Now, grab your bowl of stew, settle in, and dream of fairways and greens—even if they’re covered in snow.


Pro tip: Double the recipe and freeze portions for easy meals during the cold winter months.

Stay Well, Stay Safe, and Have Fun


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