Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Congee
Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Congee is a warm, cozy bowl of rice porridge that takes your holiday turkey leftovers to a whole new level. It’s soft, comforting, and gently flavored with…
Tip: save now, cook later.Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Congee is a warm, cozy bowl of rice porridge that takes your holiday turkey leftovers to a whole new level. It’s soft, comforting, and gently flavored with bits of turkey, making it just right for chilly mornings or anytime you want something soothing and simple. The texture is creamy and smooth, with little morsels of turkey adding a bit of meatiness without being too heavy.
I love making this congee when I have turkey leftover because it feels like a fresh way to enjoy what’s already in the fridge. It’s my go-to when I want something easy to digest, but still filling and tasty. Plus, it’s super quick to whip up and doesn’t require a lot of ingredients—just turkey, rice, broth, and a few seasonings. I usually add a splash of soy sauce and some chopped green onions to brighten it up.
The best part about this dish is how versatile it is. I like to serve it with a drizzle of sesame oil, a sprinkle of pepper, or even a soft-boiled egg on top. It’s perfect for using up every last bit of turkey and makes you feel like you’re having a brand-new meal rather than just leftovers. This congee shines when you’re craving something gentle that still holds on to those comforting Thanksgiving flavors.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Jasmine or short-grain rice works best for a creamy texture. If you don’t have these, medium-grain rice is a good substitute. Avoid long-grain rice as it stays separate and won’t create that smooth porridge feel.
Turkey: Leftover cooked turkey adds flavor and protein. You can swap turkey for shredded chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Broth: Using low-sodium turkey or chicken broth adds depth. If you only have regular broth, feel free to adjust salt later when seasoning.
Ginger & Garlic: Fresh ginger and garlic give the congee its warming flavor. If fresh ginger isn’t available, ginger powder can work, but use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
Garnishes: Green onions, cilantro, and fried shallots add freshness and crunch. If you can’t find fried shallots, crispy garlic chips or toasted sesame seeds can be a tasty option.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Texture in Congee?
The secret to creamy congee is slow simmering and stirring:
- Start by rinsing the rice to remove excess starch; this helps prevent clumping.
- Simmer the rice gently, uncovered, so the water evaporates and the grains break down naturally.
- Stir occasionally to stop rice from sticking to the bottom and to encourage the grains to release their starch, creating that creamy texture.
- Use enough liquid—broth or water—to cover the rice plus some extra. You can always add more if it gets too thick.
- If short on time, you can cook the rice in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot to speed up the breakdown, but stirring helps with that smooth consistency.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottomed pot – helps cook the rice evenly without burning and holds plenty of liquid.
- Wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula – for stirring the congee to prevent sticking and breaking down rice.
- Measuring cups – to keep your rice-to-liquid ratio just right for perfect texture.
- Knife and cutting board – to mince garlic, slice ginger, and chop green onions easily.
- Ladle – makes serving the hot congee safe and simple.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap turkey with shredded chicken or pork for a different protein but similar comforting taste.
- Add sliced shiitake mushrooms in the last 20 minutes for extra umami and texture.
- Stir in beaten egg slowly while cooking to create silky egg ribbons throughout the congee.
- Top with a dash of chili oil or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a little spicy or nutty kick.
Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Congee
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup jasmine rice (or short-grain rice)
- 8 cups low-sodium turkey or chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded leftover cooked turkey
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, peeled and sliced thin
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- Soy sauce, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- White pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Fried shallots or onions, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This congee takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. Most of this time is gentle simmering while the rice breaks down into a creamy porridge. You’ll spend 10-15 minutes on prep and stirring periodically during cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Rice and Broth:
Rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear, then drain. In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice, turkey broth, ginger slices, and minced garlic. Bring it all to a boil over high heat.
2. Simmer and Stir:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Let the rice simmer gently, uncovered, stirring every now and then to keep it from sticking. Cook for about 1 to 1 ½ hours until the rice breaks down and the texture is creamy like porridge. Feel free to add extra broth or water if it gets too thick.
3. Add Turkey and Green Onions:
Ten minutes before it’s done, stir in the shredded turkey and most of the sliced green onions, saving some for garnish. Heat it through gently.
4. Season and Serve:
Add soy sauce, salt, and white pepper to taste. Spoon the congee into bowls, drizzle with oil if you like, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro, reserved green onions, and fried shallots or onions for a little crunch. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for This Congee?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the turkey in the fridge overnight before shredding and adding it to the congee. This helps it heat evenly and keeps the texture nice.
How Should I Store Leftover Turkey Congee?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little broth or water if it becomes too thick.
Can I Make This Congee Without Turkey?
Absolutely! You can leave out the turkey and still enjoy a comforting plain congee or add other proteins like shredded chicken, tofu, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Is There a Way to Speed Up the Cooking Time?
To cook congee faster, try using a pressure cooker or Instant Pot. Cook the rice and broth on high pressure for about 20-25 minutes, then stir in turkey and seasonings afterward.