After-Thanksgiving Turkey, Sweet Potato And Bacon Chowder

1. 1

   In large, heavy pot set over medium heat, saute bacon until browned and crisp, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove to drain on paper towels. Crumble coarsely and set aside. Pour off all but 2 T of drippings in pan.

2. 2

   Add onion and celery to same pot, still over medium heat.

3. 3

   Saute, stirring, 2 minutes. Then add sweet potatoes, 3/4 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoons pepper. Saute, stirring, until slightly softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Add 3 1/2 cups of the broth, the thyme and sage and bring mixture to a simmer.

4. 4

   While mixture is coming to a simmer, place flour in a small bowl and whisk in remaining 1/2 cup stock to form a slurry into soup once it comes to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook at a simmer until vegetables are tender, but not mushy, about 10 minutes.

5. 5

   Whisk in the half and half, bring mixture to a simmer and cook 1 minute. Add turkey and cook 1 to 2 minutes to warm through. Taste and season with more salt and pepper if needed.

6. 6

   The soup can be prepared 1 day ahead; cool, cover and refrigerate. Reheat over medium heat, stirring often.

7. 7

   Serve chowder in 6 soup bowls and garnish each serving with some crumbled bacon and, if desired, with a fresh sage and thyme sprig.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.