TODAY we celebrate a soup that is comforting to your heart and soul during this Spring weather when the weather sometimes gets a little chili, the Turkey Neck Soup.

Turkey neck soup is a warm and hearty dish that has been a staple in Southern cuisine for generations. This flavorful soup is made with turkey necks as the main ingredient is simmered with a variety of vegetables and seasonings to create a rich and satisfying broth.

Turkey neck soup has a long and storied history in Southern cuisine. Turkey necks were once considered an overlooked and underappreciated part of the bird, as they were not commonly used in more mainstream dishes like turkey breast or legs. However, resourceful cooks found ways to turn the turkey necks into a flavorful and satisfying soup.

One theory is that turkey neck soup may have been influenced by African American culinary traditions, as many enslaved Africans and their descendants relied on inexpensive cuts of meat and vegetables to create nourishing meals. In some African cultures, soups and stews made with meat, vegetables, and spices are staple dishes.

Today, turkey neck soup remains a popular dish in the South and is often served as a comforting and nourishing meal. It is also a favorite among hunters who enjoy using every part of the bird and creating hearty soups and stews with the leftover parts.

To make turkey neck soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds of turkey necks
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 cups of chicken or turkey broth
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the turkey necks and cook until they are golden brown on all sides.
2. Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot and sauté them until they are softened.
3. Pour in the chicken or turkey broth, along with the thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the turkey necks are tender and the broth is rich and flavorful.
4. Remove the turkey necks from the pot and let them cool. Once they are cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bones and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
5. Add the shredded turkey meat back into the pot and simmer for another 10-15 minutes.
6. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Now that you got the recipe, why not celebrate this day by making some heartwarming soup! Whether you’re using leftover turkey necks or starting from scratch, and is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger. So next time you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful meal, give turkey neck soup a try – you won’t be disappointed!