Are you ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience? This Smoked Turkey and White Bean Soup is not just a recipe—it's a journey of rich, smoky flavors and hearty comfort that will transport you to a cozy kitchen on a chilly evening. Packed with protein, tender vegetables, and an irresistible aroma, this soup promises to become your new go-to comfort food that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked turkey, shredded
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables: dice the onion, carrots, and celery into uniform small pieces. Shred the smoked turkey into bite-sized strips.
- Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to coat the bottom of the pot.
- Sauté the chopped onions, carrots, and celery in the pot for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions become translucent.
- Add the shredded smoked turkey to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and drained white beans. Sprinkle the dried thyme over the mixture.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 35-40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving. The soup will continue to develop flavor during this time.
- Ladle into warm bowls and serve hot. Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use high-quality smoked turkey and ensure your vegetables are uniformly chopped for even cooking.
- Don't rush the sautéing process—letting the vegetables caramelize slightly will add depth to your soup's flavor profile.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can partially mash some of the white beans to create a creamier texture.
- Fresh thyme can be used instead of dried for a more vibrant herb flavor.
- Make sure to let the soup rest for those crucial 5 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to fully develop and meld together.
- This soup freezes beautifully—store in airtight containers for up to 3 months for a quick future meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 40mg
