There’s something deeply satisfying about this creamy turkey stew recipe, since it combines the lusciousness of cream with the wholesome goodness of turkey. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you have leftover turkey on hand, this creamy turkey stew is a bowlful of warmth, comfort, and delightful flavors.
Creamy Turkey Stew Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cooked turkey diced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 md onion finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 3 md carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 4 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 md potatoes diced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until onions become translucent.
- Stir in the diced turkey, followed by the potatoes.
- Pour in the chicken or turkey broth, ensuring that the ingredients are covered.
- Add thyme and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, letting it simmer for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Check for seasoning and adjust if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Notes
- Turkey Selection: Both white and dark turkey meat work well in this stew. Dark meat may offer a richer flavor while white meat can be leaner.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or replace some of the veggies based on what you have on hand. Mushrooms, green beans, and bell peppers are all great additions.
- Spice It Up: For an added kick, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
- Dairy-Free Version: If you're dairy-free, you can replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or another dairy-free alternative. Remember, this might slightly alter the flavor.
- Leftovers: Leftover stew tastes even better the next day once the flavors meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Thickening: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash a few of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot or add a cornstarch slurry.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs always give the best flavor. However, if you don't have fresh thyme on hand, dried herbs will work in a pinch. Generally, use one-third the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh.
- Storage Tip: If you're freezing the stew, leave out the heavy cream. Add it when reheating to ensure the best texture and flavor.
- Bread Pairing: This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the creamy goodness.
- Healthier Version: To cut down on calories, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a milk of your choice. However, this might make the stew less creamy.
Why Make Creamy Turkey Stew Recipe?
A creamy turkey stew is not just about satiating hunger. It’s an expression of culinary art that brings together tender turkey, fresh vegetables, and a creamy broth. Perfect for using up holiday leftovers, this stew is a resourceful way to make the most out of your roasted turkey, ensuring no wastage while presenting a completely transformed dish.
How Difficult Is It To Make Creamy Turkey Stew Recipe?
Making this stew is straightforward. The process involves sautéing, simmering, and seasoning. Even if you’re a beginner, the steps are simple to follow, ensuring a hassle-free cooking experience.
How Does Creamy Turkey Stew Recipe Taste?
This stew offers a symphony of flavors – the richness of the cream, the wholesomeness of the turkey, the earthiness of the vegetables, and the aromatic herbs. Each spoonful is creamy, hearty, and bursting with a balanced flavor that comforts the soul.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw turkey for this recipe?
Yes, if using raw turkey, ensure it’s cooked thoroughly before adding the broth.
What can I use as a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter for a lighter version.
Can this stew be frozen?
Absolutely! Once cooled, store in an airtight container and freeze. It can last up to 3 months.
How can I thicken the stew further?
Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry and stir it into the simmering stew.
Are there any vegetables I can add?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like green beans, peas, or corn for more variety and nutrition.
Enjoy This Delectable Creamy Turkey Stew Recipe
Indulge in this bowl of comfort and let its creamy goodness envelop you. Whether you’re trying to warm up on a cold day or make the most of your leftover turkey, this creamy turkey stew will not disappoint!
