Leftover Turkey Curry

The BEST Easy Leftover Turkey Curry is the perfect way to revamp those holiday turkey leftovers that are just sitting in your fridge. If you’re like many of us, you might find yourself wondering what to do with that extra turkey after Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. Well, worry not! This delightful dish combines spices and creamy coconut milk, transforming plain old turkey into a comforting, flavorful meal in no time. It’s super easy, which is just what we need on busy weeknights or when we want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

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This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl. It can satisfy a crowd while keeping cleanup minimal, thanks to the one-pot method. Plus, it’s so versatile you can throw in whatever vegetables you have lying around. So, if you’re ready for a comforting dish that brings warmth to your table, let’s get started on making The BEST Easy Leftover Turkey Curry!

Why This Recipe Works

This leftover turkey curry is a perfect way to transform holiday leftovers into a delicious, comforting meal. The combination of spices creates a depth of flavor that elevates the dish, while the creamy coconut milk balances the heat, making it appealing to all taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This The BEST Easy Leftover Turkey Curry

Not only is this recipe quick and easy, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can whip it up in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. The use of leftover turkey ensures that no food goes to waste. This hearty dish can nourish families and friends all season long, making it a go-to recipe you’ll keep returning to. Imagine the warmth of spices and the richness of coconut milk wrapping around tender turkey, all ready in under thirty minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 lb leftover turkey, shredded or diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 ¼ tablespoons curry powder (mild or medium)
• 2 teaspoons Garam Masala
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric
• ¼ teaspoon ground coriander
• 14 oz can chopped tomatoes (or passata)
• 14 oz can coconut milk (light or regular)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• ½ bunch fresh coriander, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime

Preparing Your Leftover Turkey Curry

Heat the oil and sauté aromatics

First, grab a medium saucepan or a high-sided skillet. Heat the olive oil over medium heat, and let it warm up for a minute. Now, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Sauté them together until the onion softens and becomes fragrant, which should take about 5 minutes.

Add spices for flavor

Next, stir in the curry powder, Garam Masala, turmeric, and ground coriander. Make sure the onions are well-coated with those spices, as this is where the magic happens. If anything starts to stick, a tablespoon of water can help things along.

Combine tomatoes and coconut milk

Pour in the chopped tomatoes and coconut milk. Stir well to ensure all your ingredients meld together perfectly.

Add the turkey and simmer

Now, it’s time to incorporate that leftover turkey into the pan. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes or until the turkey is heated through. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Incorporate fresh spinach

After that, add the fresh spinach to the mix. Cook it until it wilts, which should take approximately 5 minutes. This will add a lovely pop of color and nutrition to your dish.

Finish with fresh herbs and lime

Finally, finish everything off by stirring in the chopped fresh coriander and squeezing the juice of the lime over the curry. Serve it hot and enjoy a comforting meal together!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your leftover turkey curry, pair it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread. This combination adds carb goodness to the dish, making it even more satisfying. Whether for lunch or dinner, these sides will definitely take your meal to the next level.

Tips for Success

• For extra creaminess, go for full-fat coconut milk.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference. Feel free to add chili flakes if you enjoy extra heat.

Variations

• If you want something different, substitute turkey with other proteins like chicken or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• You can also experiment with different vegetables, such as bell peppers or peas, to give your dish added nutrition and texture.

Storage Tips

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat until heated through. This means you can enjoy your curry several times throughout the week!

FAQs

Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftovers?
Absolutely! You can cook fresh turkey and use it in this recipe. Just make sure to cook it all the way through.

Is it necessary to use coconut milk?
While coconut milk adds a rich creaminess, you can substitute it with heavy cream or plain yogurt if you prefer.

What kind of curry powder should I use?
Both mild and medium curry powders work well. Choose based on your spice tolerance.

How can I make it vegan?
Replace turkey with chickpeas or tofu and ensure your curry powder doesn’t contain any animal products.

Can this dish be frozen?
Definitely! You can freeze the curry in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.

This easy leftover turkey curry is not just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s about taking something familiar and giving it a second life, creating a dish filled with flavor, warmth, and the comfort of home. Perfect for cold days or any time you need a quick and satisfying meal, it’s an effortless way to ensure your holiday turkey makes a delicious encore.

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