Thanksgiving is a time of abundance, where families gather around tables laden with turkey, stuffing, and all the festive trimmings. But what comes after the feast? Leftovers.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

1 turkey carcass (separate meat from bones)
9 cups hot water
1 cup uncooked white rice (rinsed and drained)
4 dried scallops
4 dried shiitake mushrooms
Hot water (for rehydrating scallops and mushrooms)
Toppings: fresh cilantro, green onions, julienned ginger, roasted peanuts, dried red onions, sesame oil, white pepper (optional)

Directions

Place dried scallops and dried mushrooms in a bowl; pour in hot water to cover and let stand for 10 minutes to rehydrate.
Separate meat from the turkey carcass, reserving the bones. Set aside the meat for later use.
In a large stockpot, combine turkey bones and 9 cups of hot water. Bring to a boil.
Drain and squeeze out any excess water from the rehydrated scallops and mushrooms. Break scallops into smaller pieces and thinly slice the mushrooms.
Add scallops, mushrooms, rinsed rice, and turkey meat to the stockpot. Reduce heat and simmer partially covered for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally for a smooth congee consistency.
Adjust thickness by stirring in additional hot water a few tablespoons at a time if needed.
Ladle congee into bowls and garnish with desired toppings: cilantro, green onions, ginger, peanuts, dried red onions, sesame oil, and white pepper. Serve warm.

Nutritional Information Per serving:

Calories: 250 kcal
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 600mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g

The Story Behind Thanksgiving Turkey Congee

Thanksgiving is a holiday filled with warmth, gratitude, and of course, an abundance of delicious food. After the grand feast, many families find themselves with plenty of leftover turkey and wonder how to repurpose it creatively. While sandwiches, casseroles, and soups are common solutions, Thanksgiving Turkey Congee offers a unique, comforting, and flavorful way to give new life to leftover turkey. Congee, a rice porridge deeply rooted in Asian cuisine, is a staple in many cultures, particularly in China, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia. It is known for its simplicity, ease of digestion, and versatility in both sweet and savory variations. By combining the familiar flavors of roasted turkey with the rich, creamy texture of congee, this dish becomes an ideal post-Thanksgiving meal.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Leftovers

One of the biggest challenges after Thanksgiving is figuring out how to use up leftovers without getting tired of eating the same flavors. This turkey congee is a game-changer because it:

Transforms leftovers into a new dish – Instead of eating turkey the same way, it gives it an entirely different texture and flavor profile.
Uses the entire turkey – The bones and carcass add depth and richness to the broth, making sure nothing goes to waste.
Is easy to digest – After a heavy Thanksgiving meal, a light yet satisfying dish like congee is perfect for resetting the stomach.
Warms and comforts – The thick, creamy texture of congee is soothing, especially on a cold fall or winter day.

The Secret to a Rich and Creamy Congee

A great congee starts with the right technique. Unlike regular rice soups, where grains remain separate, congee requires a slow-cooking process that allows the rice to break down and release its starch. Here are a few tips to achieve the perfect consistency:

Use the right rice-to-water ratio – Too little water results in a thick, clumpy texture, while too much makes it too runny. A good balance ensures the rice fully absorbs the liquid.
Rinse the rice before cooking – This removes excess starch and ensures the grains cook evenly.
Stir occasionally – This helps break down the rice further and prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Cook on low heat – Slow simmering allows the flavors to develop fully and creates a velvety texture.

Variations and Customization

One of the best things about congee is its versatility. While this recipe highlights turkey, you can easily adapt it to your preferences and available ingredients.

Protein options – If you don’t have turkey, you can substitute chicken, duck, or even seafood like shrimp and fish.
Vegetables – Adding vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or bok choy enhances the nutritional value and flavor of the dish.
Broth – Instead of plain water, using homemade turkey or chicken broth adds an extra layer of richness.
Toppings – The garnishes make a big difference! Some great options include green onions, fresh cilantro, julienned ginger, roasted peanuts, fried shallots, and a drizzle of sesame oil.

The Health Benefits of Congee

Congee is more than just a delicious dish—it also offers several health benefits:

Gentle on digestion – Because it’s cooked for a long time, congee is easy on the stomach and is often used as a healing food for those recovering from illness.
Hydrating – Since it contains a high amount of water, it helps keep the body hydrated.
Nutritious and filling – With turkey, rice, and various toppings, it provides a balanced meal with proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
Great for cold weather – Its warmth and smooth texture make it a comforting dish during fall and winter.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Thanksgiving Turkey Congee can be enjoyed on its own, but it pairs well with various side dishes to make the meal more complete. Here are some serving ideas:

Pickled vegetables – The acidity of pickled cucumbers or radishes cuts through the richness of the congee.
Chinese donuts (Youtiao) – A crispy, fried breadstick commonly served with congee in Asian cuisine.
Soy sauce eggs – Soft-boiled eggs marinated in soy sauce add extra umami flavor.
Spicy condiments – If you like a kick of heat, add chili oil, sriracha, or white pepper.

Making It Ahead and Storing Leftovers

Since Thanksgiving Turkey Congee requires slow cooking, it’s a great dish to prepare ahead of time. Here’s how you can make it more convenient:

Make the broth in advance – Simmer the turkey carcass to extract all the flavor, then store the broth in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook the congee.
Reheat properly – Congee thickens as it cools, so when reheating, add a bit of water or broth and stir well to restore its original consistency.
Freeze in portions – If you have extra, freeze individual servings for quick, ready-to-eat meals later.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving Turkey Congee is a fantastic way to make the most out of your holiday leftovers while enjoying a warm, nourishing, and deeply satisfying meal. It embodies the essence of comfort food—simple, hearty, and filled with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a lighter meal after Thanksgiving, a cozy dish to enjoy on a chilly evening, or a creative way to use up every part of your turkey, this congee is a must-try.

Pin1

1 Shares