Lemony White Bean, Turkey, and Kale Soup

I’m looking forward to wrapping up 2024 and with that comes the usual “best of” lists. I found this recipe on NYT Cooking early in the year and it quickly became a staple. So easy to make, delicious, nutritious, freezes well (if you’re cooking for one or two, make the full recipe and freeze half ), and I somehow never got tired of it. I’m not a big leftover gal so the fact I ate this a few days in a row several times this year says a lot. It was also a great way to put my Souper Cubes to work. Can we also take a moment for the music that came out this year? Absolutely fantastic! While my Spotify Wrapped isn’t out yet, I could’ve predicted in the beginning of the summer that Fontaines DC’s “Starburster” would be my song of the year (also was my concert of the year). But so many great tunes, especially from women artists. Never forget that music heals. So have a listen, make some tasty food, nourish your soul, and keep on keepin on. Cheers to 2024 and to you.

Lemony White Bean, Turkey, and Kale Soup
Slightly adapted from NYT Cooking
Serves 4

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
1 large carrot, diced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
¾ teaspoon ground cumin
⅛ teaspoon red-pepper flakes
1 pound ground turkey
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger
1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
1 quart chicken stock
2(15-ounce) cans white beans, drained and rinsed
1 bunch kale, rinsed, stems removed, and leaves chopped
1 cup chopped fresh parsley
Fresh lemon juice, to taste

• Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat, add the onion an carrot, and saute until soft and golden, about 10 minutes
• Add tomato paste, cumin, and red pepper flakes and cook for one minute
• Add turkey, garlic, ginger, and salt and saute while breaking up the turkey. Cook until turkey is browned in spots, about 6-7 minutes
• Add the stock and beans and simmer for 20-25 minutes
• Add the kale and cook for an additional 10 minutes
• Turn off the heat, add the parsley and lemon juice and stir
• Ladle into a bowl and add a drizzle of olive oil, any additional salt or spices to your taste