Description
A soul-warming, Southwest-inspired stew that transforms a turkey carcass into a deeply flavorful, nourishing broth. Infused with aromatic cilantro, tangy fresh lime juice, and a gentle heat from ancho chili powder, this stew is a labor of love that rewards patience with a vibrant, comforting depth. It is a perfect, forgiving dish for meal prepping, as the complex flavors continue to develop over time, making it an ideal choice for effortless, delicious dinners throughout the week.
Ingredients
1 turkey carcass
Filtered water to cover
2 cans (15 oz each) corn, drained
1 can (14 oz) stewed tomatoes
2 medium yellow onions, sliced thin
2 green peppers, sliced
1 carrot, sliced thin
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons dried celery leaves
2 tablespoons ancho chili powder
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
4–6 limes, juiced
Salt to taste
1 cup salsa verde for serving
Instructions
Place turkey carcass in a large stockpot and cover completely with filtered water.
Add sliced carrots and minced garlic to the pot.
Simmer on very low heat for 3 to 4 hours, ensuring a gentle extraction without a rolling boil.
Remove the carcass once the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
Strain the broth to remove bones and cartilage, then return the liquid to the pot.
Add the onions, green peppers, corn, stewed tomatoes, dried celery leaves, ancho chili powder, oregano, coriander, and cayenne pepper.
Simmer for an additional 30 to 45 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in the fresh chopped cilantro and lime juice just before serving.
Season with salt to taste and serve hot with a dollop of salsa verde.
Notes
The stew is best prepared in two stages: making the broth on the first day and finishing the stew on the second. It stores exceptionally well and improves in flavor after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. You can substitute any remaining cooked turkey meat picked from the carcass back into the stew for extra protein.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 65mg