Avoid Dry Leftover Turkey By Turning It Into A Classic Dish

Transforming dry leftover turkey into a classic dish is an excellent way to give new life to your holiday remnants. One popular method is to make a comforting turkey pot pie. Begin by shredding the leftover turkey into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery in butter until they become tender, adding a touch of garlic for depth. Incorporate flour to create a roux, then gradually stir in chicken broth and milk to form a creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs such as thyme or rosemary for added flavor. Add the shredded turkey and a handful of frozen peas to the mixture, ensuring everything is well-coated in the sauce. Pour the filling into a pie dish and cover it with either a homemade or store-bought pie crust, sealing the edges to prevent spillage. Brush the crust with a beaten egg to achieve a golden finish. Bake in a preheated oven until the crust is flaky and browned. This method not only revives the turkey but also combines it with a medley of vegetables and a rich sauce, creating a heartwarming dish perfect for chilly evenings.
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Have leftover turkey gumbo? Freeze it to keep it fresh

Just as you would properly store leftover turkey for extended periods, it's advisable to freeze your leftover turkey gumbo if you don't intend to consume it within a few days. Luckily, this dish freezes remarkably well, preserving both its texture and flavor. However, this depends on proper storage to prevent issues like freezer burn.

When freezing turkey gumbo, it's crucial to let the stew cool completely before placing it in the freezer. Storing it while still hot can raise the temperature inside the freezer, potentially causing other items to thaw and creating an environment where bacteria can grow or freezer burn can occur. Ideally, divide the gumbo into smaller portions to facilitate quicker cooling, and once it’s no longer steaming, place it in the fridge until it cools completely. Avoid leaving it out for more than two hours to cool on its own, as this can lead to the food entering the temperature danger zone where bacteria can proliferate.

Once properly stored, the gumbo can remain fresh for up to six months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw the container in the fridge overnight. Alternatively, you can heat it directly from frozen, either in the microwave or on the stove in a pot.

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