Make Delicious Bean Soup with Smoked Turkey

Bean soup is a hearty, nutritious dish that is perfect for chilly weather. Adding smoked turkey enhances the flavor and makes it even more satisfying. With so many ways to make bean soup, it can be hard to choose the best recipe. This article outlines everything you need to know to make delicious bean soup with smoked turkey.

Benefits of Bean Soup

There are many health benefits to eating bean soup

• Beans are packed with protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Just one cup provides a significant amount of your daily recommended values.

• The high fiber content helps regulate blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol It also promotes digestive health

• Beans contain antioxidants that reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage

• Studies show bean consumption is linked to weight loss as the fiber makes you feel fuller longer.

• The wide array of nutrients in beans, including folate, iron, potassium, and magnesium, boost immunity and energy levels.

Adding smoked turkey to bean soup amplifies the nutrition as it provides extra protein, B vitamins, zinc, and selenium. The smoky flavor also enhances the taste.

Best Beans for Soup

While all beans work well, some of the best choices for soup include:

• Navy beans: These small white beans have a mild flavor and smooth texture. They hold their shape well during cooking.

• Great northern beans: With a creamy, potato-like texture, these large white beans are perfect for thickening soups.

• Pinto beans: Popular in Mexican cuisine, pintos have an earthy flavor. They soften fully when cooked but still retain their shape.

• Kidney beans: Large, red kidney beans have a meaty texture and robust, almost nutty taste.

• Black beans: Bold, rich black beans have a slightly sweet undertone. They break down easily, thickening the broth.

• Cannellini beans: These large white beans become velvety soft and absorb surrounding flavors nicely.

• Mixed beans: Blends that contain 3 or more bean varieties add visual interest and unique textures.

Smoking Your Own Turkey

While pre-smoked turkey legs, wings or bacon work well, smoking your own turkey imparts much more flavor. It’s easier than you think:

• Choose boneless turkey breast or thighs for the most smoke absorption.

• Remove skin to expose more surface area.

• Brine the turkey overnight in saltwater. This keeps it moist.

• Smoke for 2-3 hours at 225°F using wood chips like hickory, apple, cherry or maple.

• Cool completely before adding to soup. The meat shreds easily.

Smoking your own turkey lets you control ingredients and quality. You can use natural wood chips and avoid added nitrates or phosphates.

Best Herbs and Spices

Herbs and spices add layers of flavor to bean soup:

• Onion and garlic provide an aromatic base. Sauté at the beginning.

• Smoked paprika offers a sweet, smoky taste similar to the turkey.

• Oregano and thyme contribute an earthy flavor.

• Rosemary and sage lend a woodsy element.

• Basil balances the other herbs with a fresh, minty essence.

• Bay leaves impart subtle floral notes.

• Crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne add mild heat.

• Black pepper and sea salt enhance overall flavor.

Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite medley.

Cooking Methods

You can make bean soup with smoked turkey in a slow cooker, on the stovetop or in the oven. Each has advantages:

Slow cooker:

• Easy, hands-off cooking. Just add ingredients and turn on.

• Beans soften completely and absorb flavors over 8+ hours.

• Makes large batches for leftovers.

Stovetop:

• Lets you brown aromatics like onion and garlic first.

• Shorter cook time of 2-3 hours.

• Easier to control seasoning and thickness.

Oven:

• Use a Dutch oven with lid.

• Bake untouched for 4-6 hours.

• Great for large quantities when entertaining.

• Can start on stovetop then finish in oven.

The method doesn’t significantly alter taste. Choose based on your schedule, quantity and preferences.

Tips for the Best Flavor

Follow these tips for maximum flavor in your bean soup:

• Sauté onions, garlic, and herbs in olive oil first.

• Cook bacon or pancetta to render the fat for sautéing.

• Brown the turkey for deeper flavor.

• Add tomato paste and cook briefly to intensify its sweetness.

• Use broth, not water, for the liquid. Chicken or turkey broth works well.

• Simmer a Parmesan rind in the soup while cooking.

• Add fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaves then remove before serving.

• Finish with a splash of red wine vinegar or lemon juice.

• Garnish bowls with grated Parmesan or Monterey Jack.

• Let the soup sit overnight in the fridge to develop flavors. Simply reheat to serve.

Sample Recipe

This widely loved 15 bean soup with smoked turkey recipe offers tried and true results:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb 15 bean soup mix, rinsed
• 1-2 lbs smoked turkey legs or wings
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 14 oz can diced tomatoes
• 2 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• 1⁄4 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté onion, carrots and garlic in olive oil over medium high heat until soft, 5-7 minutes.

2. Add beans, turkey, broth, tomatoes, oregano, paprika, bay leaf and cayenne. Bring to a boil.

3. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer 2-3 hours until beans are very tender, stirring occasionally.

4. Remove bay leaf. Take turkey off bone and shred or chop meat.

5. Return turkey to pot, season with salt and pepper.

For even more flavor, brown the turkey first or use homemade turkey stock. Garnish with cheese and fresh herbs. Enjoy!

Make it Your Own

Once you master the basics, adjust the recipe to suit your tastes. Get creative with different add-ins like kale, potatoes, sausage and chili peppers. Top with crunchy croutons, Greek yogurt or a poached egg. The possibilities are endless.

Bean soup with smoked turkey makes for a hearty, healthy and comforting meal any time of year. With so many options for ingredients and seasoning, you can create your own signature version. Experiment and have fun with it!