Delicious Turkey Soup With Deep Fried Stuffing Balls Recipe

Turkey soup is a comforting dish that has been a staple in many households, especially after the holidays when leftover turkey is abundant. This recipe takes it up a notch by incorporating deep-fried stuffing balls, adding a delightful crunch and unique flavor. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this soup is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

For the Turkey Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups turkey stock
• 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups egg noodles (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Deep-Fried Stuffing Balls:

• 3 cups leftover stuffing
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Making the Turkey Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 2: Simmer the Soup

1. Pour in the turkey stock and bring to a boil.
2. Add the shredded turkey, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Optional – Add Egg Noodles

1. If using egg noodles, add them to the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Ensure they are cooked through before serving.

Making the Deep-Fried Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Form the Balls

1. In a large bowl, mix the leftover stuffing with the beaten egg until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.

Step 2: Coat the Balls

1. Roll each stuffing ball in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Step 3: Fry the Balls

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the stuffing balls in batches until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
3. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Serving the Soup

1. Ladle the hot turkey soup into bowls.
2. Add a couple of deep-fried stuffing balls to each bowl.
3. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy the combination of warm, flavorful soup and crunchy stuffing balls.

Tips and Variations

Tips

• Turkey Stock: If you don’t have turkey stock, you can use chicken stock as a substitute. Homemade stock will enhance the flavor of the soup.
• Stuffing Consistency: If the stuffing mixture is too dry to form balls, add a bit of turkey stock or water to moisten it.
• Frying Tips: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the stuffing balls to prevent them from becoming greasy.

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Add other vegetables like corn, peas, or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Spice up the soup by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Herb Substitutes: Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 700mg

Conclusion

This delicious turkey soup with deep-fried stuffing balls is a fantastic way to utilize leftovers and create a hearty, satisfying meal. The crispy stuffing balls add an exciting texture to the smooth, savory soup. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting dish after the holidays, this recipe is sure to please your family and friends.