Leftover Turkey Bone Broth Recipe

If you’ve ever wondered what to do with all those turkey bones left after a big holiday meal, you’re in for a treat. This Leftover Turkey Bone Broth Recipe transforms those humble scraps into a rich, flavorful broth that’s packed with nutrients and perfect for boosting your immune system. It’s warm, comforting, and so versatile that once you try it, you’ll be making it year-round, not just after Thanksgiving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating a broth that’s both simple and wonderfully aromatic. Each component adds just the right touch of flavor, color, and nourishment to make your broth shine.

• 2 lbs turkey bones: The star of the broth, these provide deep, savory flavor and plenty of collagen.
• ½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the natural flavors without overpowering.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Helps extract minerals and collagen from the bones for a nutrient-rich broth.
• 1 celery rib, chopped coarsely: Adds subtle earthiness and a lovely green color.
• 1 carrot, chopped coarsely: Brings sweetness and vibrant orange hues.
• ½ onion, quartered: Adds depth and a gentle, natural sweetness.
• 1 head garlic, top sliced off: Infuses a warm, mellow garlic flavor throughout the broth.
• Scraps from turkey dinner prep (carrot peels, celery leaves, etc.): Waste not, want not—these scraps boost taste and minimize food waste.
• Leftover herbs from turkey dinner prep: Fresh herb flavors to brighten and round out the broth.
• 10 cups water: The base that gently pulls all these flavors together into a harmonious broth.

How to Make Leftover Turkey Bone Broth Recipe

Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients

Start by placing your turkey bones along with all the vegetable scraps, herbs, apple cider vinegar, sea salt, and water into your Instant Pot or stockpot. The vinegar is the secret weapon here — it wakes up the bones and helps draw out every bit of goodness. Make sure everything is submerged in water, as this will be your flavorful base.

Step 2: Cook Low and Slow

If you’re using an Instant Pot, seal the lid properly and set it to cook on high pressure for 2 hours. After the cooking finishes, let the pressure release naturally for about an hour to develop those rich flavors even further. For those who prefer a slow cooker or stove-top method, simmer gently for 24 hours—trust me, the long cooking time rewards you with the most silky, nutrient-packed broth.

Step 3: Strain and Store

Once cooked, carefully strain the broth through a colander or fine sieve to remove all the solids. What you’ll have left is a beautiful, clear golden broth that carries the warmth and essence of turkey and veggies perfectly. Discard the solids — they’ve given all they can give! This broth is now ready to be used immediately or stored for later enjoyment.

How to Serve Leftover Turkey Bone Broth Recipe

Garnishes

Serving your broth with a touch of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme adds a burst of brightness that makes the flavors pop. A few freshly ground black peppercorns or a squeeze of lemon juice can also lift the broth, turning a humble cup of goodness into a moment of pure comfort.

Side Dishes

This broth is a fantastic companion to crusty bread for dipping or alongside a fresh green salad for a light meal. You can also serve it with grain bowls or steamed vegetables for a nourishing lunch or dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Try using the broth as a cooking liquid for rice, quinoa, or risotto to add a subtle turkey flavor. You can also use it as a base for soups and stews, elevating those dishes with homemade richness and complexity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your broth in an airtight jar in the fridge where it will keep well for up to 5 days. Be sure to cool it completely before sealing to preserve the vibrant flavors and safety.

Freezing

For longer storage, freezing is your best friend. Portion the broth into freezer bags or mason jars, leaving room for expansion. Freeze flat to save space, and once solid, you can stand the bags upright for easy stacking. Frozen broth stays delicious for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Gently reheat your broth on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid boiling vigorously, as this can dull the flavors. Warm broth tastes best with just a gentle simmer.

FAQs

Can I use leftover turkey meat in this broth?

While the broth focuses on bones for their collagen and minerals, adding small bits of cooked turkey meat during serving can enhance the texture and flavor of your final dish. Just be mindful not to overcook the meat while simmering the broth.

Is apple cider vinegar necessary?

Yes, incorporating apple cider vinegar is key because it helps break down the bones to release nutrients like calcium and collagen, resulting in a more nutritious and gelatinous broth.

How long can I simmer the broth?

The longer you simmer (up to 24 hours), the richer and more nutrient-dense the broth becomes. If using the Instant Pot, 2 hours is sufficient due to the high pressure cooking method.

Can I make this broth in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Slow cooking your broth on low heat for 24 hours yields a deep, comforting flavor and makes it easy to have broth ready without constant monitoring.

Is this broth suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Definitely. All ingredients used in this Leftover Turkey Bone Broth Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and nourishing choice for gluten-sensitive diets.

Final Thoughts

This Leftover Turkey Bone Broth Recipe is a wonderful way to honor your turkey leftovers by turning them into something incredibly nourishing and delicious. Once you taste the warmth and depth this broth offers, you’ll soon discover it’s that special kitchen staple you didn’t know you needed. So grab those bones, your favorite veggies, and dive in—your future self will thank you!

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