It’s Turkey Time: Here’s How To Use Those Leftovers
With fewer visitors at your table this year, you might find yourself wondering what you’re going to do with all of that extra turkey. We’ve gathered a few tips, tricks, and recipes to help. Bookmark this post for November 27th, when you’re looking into your fridge and wondering how on earth you’ll eat it all.
Cooked turkey tips:
- Leftovers should be stored within two hours of cooking.
- Separate white and dark meat from the bones and freeze everything separately.
- Wrap sliced meat in freezer paper or foil, then seal in plastic freezer bags. Press out all the air before sealing.
- Label everything with the date it was frozen or the date it should be used by (pick one and stay consistent!). Cooked turkey should last up to 2 months in the freezer.
- When reheating leftovers, be sure they reach 165°F, as measured with a food thermometer.
- See what else you can freeze from your Thanksgiving table
This turkey hash is perfect for any meal of the day. Bulk it up with fried eggs and a smidge of leftover gravy. Uses up 1.5 cups of diced roast turkey.
Classic Wild Rice Soup with Turkey
What could be nicer on a cold winter day when you don’t feel much like cooking? Open your freezer and grab a quart of this delicious classic soup. You’ll thank yourself for thinking ahead! Uses up 1 cup of cooked turkey, shredded or chopped.
Turkey Vatapa
This Brazilian stew spices things up with garlic, ginger, and jalapeño pepper… perfect to clear out that stuffy nose! Uses up 2.5 cups of cooked turkey, skin removed, chopped.
This combination of savory turkey with tangy, fresh quick-pickled cranberries and carrot will make any mouth smile. You can even use that leftover baguette! Uses up 2 cups of shredded turkey.
Leftover turkey can also be repurposed into taco filling, for casseroles, and more. What’s your favorite way to enjoy Thanksgiving turkey leftovers?