Delicious Ways to Use Leftover Christmas Turkey: From a Tasty Curry to a Hearty Stew

After the Christmas feast, there’s often one star of the show that lingers in the fridge—turkey. Whether you’ve roasted a whole bird or gone for a crown, there’s usually plenty of meat left to play with. 

The beauty of leftover turkey is its versatility; it’s a blank canvas for a range of comforting and flavourful dishes.

Here are some delicious ideas to transform your leftover Christmas turkey into meals that will keep the festive spirit alive while avoiding waste.

1. Classic Turkey Curry

A turkey curry is a post-Christmas tradition in many households. It’s warming, flavourful, and a great way to feed a crowd.

How to Make It

Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in oil until soft.

Add your favourite curry paste or spices (such as garam masala, turmeric, and cumin) and cook until fragrant.

Stir in a tin of chopped tomatoes and coconut milk, then simmer.

Add shredded turkey and cook until heated through.

Serve with rice, naan bread, and a dollop of yoghurt.

For a twist, try a Thai-style turkey curry with red curry paste, lime juice, and fresh coriander.

2. Turkey and Vegetable Soup

A hearty soup is perfect for using up turkey and any leftover vegetables from Christmas dinner.

How to Make It

Sauté onions, celery, and carrots in a large pot.

Add chopped turkey, leftover roasted vegetables, and a splash of white wine or sherry.

Pour in chicken or turkey stock and bring to a simmer.

Add herbs like thyme or parsley, and season with salt and pepper.

Blend part of the soup for a thicker texture or leave it chunky for a rustic feel.

Serve with crusty bread for a cosy meal.

3. Turkey and Leek Pie

A creamy turkey and leek pie is the ultimate comfort food.

How to Make It

Sauté sliced leeks in butter until soft.

Stir in leftover turkey and a splash of white wine or stock.

Add double cream or a cheese sauce, then season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Transfer to a pie dish, top with puff pastry, and bake at 200°C (400°F) until golden.

For extra flavour, mix in leftover ham or stuffing.

4. Turkey Enchiladas

Bring some spice to your leftovers with turkey enchiladas.

How to Make It

Mix shredded turkey with sautéed onions, peppers, and a dollop of sour cream or salsa.

Roll the mixture into tortillas and place them in a baking dish.

Top with enchilada sauce and grated cheese, then bake at 180°C (350°F) until bubbling.

Serve with guacamole, sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh coriander.

5. Turkey and Sweetcorn Chowder

This creamy chowder is a comforting way to use up turkey and any leftover corn or potatoes.

How to Make It

Sauté onions, celery, and garlic in butter.

Add diced potatoes, sweetcorn, and turkey.

Pour in chicken stock and simmer until the potatoes are tender.

Stir in cream or milk, and season with thyme, salt, and pepper.

Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

6. Turkey Stir-Fry

A quick stir-fry is a light and tasty way to use up turkey.

How to Make It

Heat oil in a wok and stir-fry chopped vegetables (like peppers, carrots, and broccoli).

Add shredded turkey and a splash of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or teriyaki sauce.

Toss in cooked noodles or serve over rice.

Top with sesame seeds and spring onions for extra flavour.

7. Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

Give a classic dish a festive twist by swapping beef or lamb for turkey.

How to Make It

Sauté onions, carrots, and celery, then add shredded turkey and a splash of gravy or stock.

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with mashed potatoes (add a sprinkle of cheese if you like).

Bake at 200°C (400°F) until golden and bubbling.

8. Turkey Stew with Dumplings

A rich stew is the perfect winter warmer.

How to Make It

Sauté onions, garlic, and root vegetables in a large pot.

Add turkey, leftover gravy, and chicken or turkey stock.

Simmer until the vegetables are tender.

Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough on top and cook until the dumplings are fluffy.

Serve with a side of steamed greens for a complete meal.

9. Turkey Caesar Salad

If you’re craving something lighter after the indulgence of Christmas, a turkey Caesar salad is a great choice.

How to Make It

Toss shredded turkey with crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.

Drizzle with Caesar dressing and top with a soft-boiled egg or anchovies for extra richness.

10. Turkey Sandwiches, but Elevated

The classic turkey sandwich gets a gourmet makeover with the right ingredients.

Ideas

Turkey Club: Layer turkey with crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise on toasted bread.

Festive Twist: Add stuffing, cranberry sauce, and a slice of Brie for a Christmas-inspired sandwich.

Hot Turkey Melt: Toast turkey with cheese and caramelised onions on sourdough bread.

A Dish for Every Mood

Leftover turkey is the gift that keeps on giving, offering endless possibilities for comforting meals. Whether you’re in the mood for a spicy curry, a creamy pie, or a simple salad, these recipes ensure no morsel of your Christmas feast goes to waste.

Happy cooking!

Tasty Creative Ideas for Your Christmas Dinner Leftovers

After the excitement of Christmas Day, you might find your fridge packed with leftovers from the feast. 

From turkey to roasted veg, there’s usually an abundance of festive food that’s far too good to waste.

 Instead of simply reheating the same plate every day, why not get creative with your Christmas leftovers? Here are some delicious ideas for turning those post-holiday bits and pieces into brand-new meals.

1. Turkey Transformation: Soups, Curries, and Sandwiches

Turkey is often the star of Christmas dinner, and luckily, it’s incredibly versatile when it comes to leftovers.

Hearty Turkey Soup: Start with a turkey stock by simmering the leftover bones with carrots, onions, and celery. Then add shredded turkey, diced potatoes, and any leftover veg for a warming, hearty soup that’s perfect for those cold days between Christmas and New Year’s.

Turkey Curry: For something with a bit of spice, transform your leftover turkey into a curry. Just sauté onions, garlic, and ginger with curry powder, add coconut milk or chopped tomatoes, and mix in your turkey and any veg that could use up. It’s quick, easy, and will infuse a bit of post-holiday excitement into your meals.

Ultimate Turkey Sandwich: Get creative with a sandwich that’s far from ordinary! Use slices of leftover turkey with cranberry sauce, stuffing, and a slice of mature cheddar or brie on crusty bread. Add some fresh salad greens for a mix of textures and flavours that’s far better than your average sandwich.

2. Leftover Vegetables: Bubble and Squeak, Frittatas, and Stir-Fries

Roasted carrots, parsnips, sprouts, and potatoes are Christmas staples, and they can be repurposed in so many delicious ways.

Bubble and Squeak: A classic British favourite, bubble and squeak is a great way to use up leftover veg. Mash everything together, including those crispy potatoes and sprouts, and fry in a pan with a little butter until it’s golden and slightly crisp. Serve it with fried or poached eggs for a satisfying Boxing Day breakfast. (It's called Bubble and Squeak because of the way it makes the sounds of bubbling and squeaking whilst it's cooking in the pan.)

Vegetable Frittata: Take your roasted veg and make a frittata for a brunch or light dinner. Simply whisk together eggs, pour over your veggies in a frying pan, and cook until set. Add cheese, herbs, or even a few bits of leftover ham for extra flavour. You can enjoy it hot or cold, making it perfect for relaxed post-Christmas days.

Quick Stir-Fry: Leftover veg can be turned into a quick and nutritious stir-fry. Toss your roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and any remaining greens with soy sauce, sesame oil, and a bit of ginger for an Asian-inspired twist. Throw in some shredded turkey or ham if you like, and you’ve got a speedy meal in minutes.

3. Potatoes and Stuffing: Croquettes, Hash, and Dumplings

Those crispy potatoes and extra stuffing can be the basis for a variety of tasty, comforting dishes.

Potato Croquettes: Mash up leftover roast potatoes or mash, add a bit of grated cheese, and form them into small croquettes. Roll in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, then fry until golden. These make fantastic snacks or side dishes, and they’re an easy way to use up a fair bit of potato.

Festive Hash: Chop up potatoes, stuffing, and any leftover meat and pan-fry with a few onions until it’s all golden and crispy. This is a quick, hearty meal that makes a brilliant brunch, especially when topped with a fried egg.

Stuffing Dumplings for Soup: Turn your leftover stuffing into flavourful dumplings. Mix the stuffing with a bit of flour and an egg, roll into small balls, and drop them into your turkey or vegetable soup. They’ll add extra flavour and a bit of bite, making your soup even more satisfying.

4. Cranberry Sauce: Glazes, Desserts, and Smoothies

If you’ve still got cranberry sauce hanging around, there’s more to it than just pairing it with meat.

Cranberry Glaze for Meats: Mix cranberry sauce with a touch of honey or balsamic vinegar to make a delicious glaze for meats. This works well with ham, pork chops, or even roasted vegetables, adding a sweet-tart flavour that’s perfect for winter meals.

Cranberry Yoghurt Parfait: For a lighter post-holiday treat, layer cranberry sauce with Greek yoghurt and granola. This makes a refreshing breakfast or dessert that feels indulgent but isn’t too heavy after Christmas feasting.

Smoothie Boost: Add a spoonful of cranberry sauce to your smoothie for a festive twist. Cranberries are high in antioxidants, and the sauce adds a tart-sweet note that pairs especially well with banana, apple, or orange. (My wife introduced me to the idea of using cranberry sauce in place of jam on jam sandwiches several years ago.)

5. Cheese Board Leftovers: Toasties, Mac & Cheese, and Quiches

Cheese often takes centre stage on Christmas cheese boards, but those leftover bits and bobs are perfect for comforting dishes.

Cheesy Toasties: There’s nothing quite like a good cheese toastie made with Christmas cheese. Use up any remaining brie, blue cheese, or cheddar to make a luxurious toastie on crusty bread. Add a dollop of cranberry sauce or caramelised onion chutney for an extra layer of flavour.

Festive Mac & Cheese: Leftover cheese can elevate a classic mac and cheese. Mix in grated cheese (any kind will do!) with your pasta and white sauce, top with breadcrumbs, and bake. You can even throw in some leftover veg or ham if you like — it’s a true crowd-pleaser.

Quiche or Tart: Use up soft or crumbly cheeses in a quiche or tart. Mix your cheese with eggs, cream, and any remaining roasted veg, then pour into a pastry case and bake until golden. It’s an easy way to create a savoury tart that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

6. Sweet Treats: Christmas Pudding Ice Cream and Trifle

If you still have desserts on hand, give them a new twist!

Christmas Pudding Ice Cream: Crumble leftover Christmas pudding into softened vanilla ice cream, mix, and freeze. You’ll get a deliciously rich, festive ice cream that’s perfect with a drizzle of brandy sauce or a few sprinkles of nuts.

Post-Christmas Trifle: Layer leftover Christmas cake or pudding with custard, whipped cream, and fruit to make a decadent trifle. Add a dash of sherry or brandy if you’re feeling indulgent, and you’ve got an impressive dessert with minimal effort.

7. Freezing Leftovers for Later

If you’re still overwhelmed with leftovers, don’t forget that most can be frozen. Turkey, ham, and even cranberry sauce all freeze well and can be enjoyed later when you’re ready for a festive flashback. Just make sure to wrap them properly, label them, and plan to use them up within a couple of months.

Embrace the Leftovers and Keep the Festive Spirit Going

Turning Christmas leftovers into new dishes isn’t just practical; it’s also a great way to extend the enjoyment of holiday flavours. With a little creativity, you can transform those extra bits into exciting new meals and treats, making the days after Christmas just as delicious as the big day itself. Whether you’re in the mood for something light, hearty, or a little indulgent, there’s a leftover recipe that’s sure to satisfy.

A Festive Curry Feast: A Bold Alternative for Your Christmas Celebration

Sometimes something wonderful comes out of adversity. My wife and another couple had arranged to have a joint Christmas feast.

 Unfortunately when it came to prepare the turkey (bought from an 'exclusive' local butcher) we realised the turkey was not fit for consumption.

 So, what to do? Prepare a very tasty curry in a hurry! My wife is justifiably renowned for her curries. (We got our money refunded after Christmas.) 

So, why not look at a curry for your Christmas feasting this year?   

Please read on!

Christmas is often associated with the traditional roast dinner, complete with turkey, stuffing, and all the trimmings. But what if this year, instead of opting for the same old fare, you introduced a little spice into your festive celebrations? 

Picture this: the warm, aromatic blend of herbs and spices, a colourful spread of curries, and the unmistakable comfort of naan bread and rice. A curry feast can be a wonderful and bold alternative Christmas meal, bringing together rich flavours, vibrant colours, and a sense of adventure to the dinner table.

Why Choose a Curry Feast?

A Break from Tradition

While the classic Christmas meal is beloved by many, opting for a curry feast can add an element of surprise and excitement. It’s a break from the norm that allows for creativity and experimentation, giving guests the chance to try something new.

Curry Brings People Together

Curries, with their variety of flavours, are perfect for communal dining. A curry feast encourages sharing, whether it’s dipping naan into a rich, creamy sauce or passing around bowls of fragrant rice. It turns the Christmas meal into a social experience, bringing a real sense of togetherness.

Vibrant, Warming Flavours

The spices in a curry spread – from cumin and coriander to ginger and turmeric – offer a warming, comforting quality, perfect for a winter feast. These bold flavours not only excite the palate but also provide a satisfying contrast to the cold weather outside.

Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly

One of the best things about curries is how versatile they are. Whether you’re cooking for vegetarians, vegans, or meat-eaters, there’s a curry for everyone. From a hearty vegetable biryani to a rich chickpea masala or a spicy lamb curry, the possibilities are endless.

Creating Your Festive Curry Feast

1. Begin with a Selection of Starters

Begin your feast with a selection of small bites to tantalise the taste buds. Mini samosas filled with spiced vegetables or chicken, crispy onion bhajis, and chutney-laden poppadoms make for a delicious and fun appetiser. Pair them with a variety of chutneys – mint, mango, and tamarind – for added freshness and zing.

2. The Main Event: Curries Galore

For the main course, serve an array of curries to suit all tastes. Here are some festive favourites to consider:

Butter Chicken: A classic dish loved by all, this creamy curry is rich with butter, tomatoes, and a subtle blend of spices. Perfect for those who prefer milder heat.

Rogan Josh: This aromatic lamb curry from Kashmir is ideal for meat lovers. Slow-cooked lamb in a sauce of yoghurt, garlic, ginger, and ground spices, with a hit of chilli, will warm everyone up.

Paneer Tikka Masala: A fantastic vegetarian option, with cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) grilled and simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce, flavoured with garam masala and coriander.

Saag Aloo: For the vegans or veggie lovers, this spinach and potato curry is a light yet flavourful addition to your spread. The earthy potatoes and vibrant spinach bring colour and heartiness to the table.

3. Don’t Forget the Sides

A curry feast isn’t complete without a variety of sides. Fluffy basmati rice, garlic naan, and chapatis are must-haves for scooping up those delicious sauces. Add some cooling raita (yoghurt with cucumber and mint) and tangy pickles to balance out the richness of the curries.

4. A Sweet Ending

No feast is complete without dessert. To keep with the Indian-inspired theme, serve gulab jamun, small doughnut-like balls soaked in rose-flavoured syrup, or mango kulfi, a creamy, frozen dessert that’s sweet and refreshing after a spicy meal.

How to Set the Festive Scene

The atmosphere is key to turning your curry feast into a true festive celebration. Brighten up your dining table with colourful tableware, vibrant fabrics, and tealight candles to create a warm, inviting space. You can even add some festive touches, such as crackers or a centrepiece of fairy lights and baubles to keep the Christmas spirit alive.

Play some soft Indian music in the background to set the mood, and encourage guests to dress comfortably, perhaps even in festive colours. The beauty of a curry feast is its relaxed, fun nature, allowing you to focus on enjoying the food and the company rather than worrying about rigid formalities.

A Festive Feast to Remember

A Christmas curry feast is not only a delightful departure from the usual, but it’s also a true celebration of flavour, culture, and togetherness. With its ability to cater to diverse palates and dietary needs, it’s a flexible and joyous way to celebrate the festive season. So, if you're looking for something bold, fun, and full of heart this Christmas, why not turn up the heat and host a curry feast?

Who knows – it might just become your new favourite tradition!

Leftover Turkey Ruby Murray. A real Christmas treat

Serves 4

2 tbsp whole coriander seeds

1 tbsp whole cumin seeds

3 tbsp coconut or vegetable oil

6 green cardamom pods, crushed

3 bay leaves

4 cloves

1 cinnamon stick

2 tsp dried chilli flakes

2 large onions, peeled and chopped

1 tbsp ginger, grated

4 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed

1 tbsp mild curry paste

2 tins of chopped tomatoes

2 tbsps. tomato purée

500g cooked Golden Turkey leg meat, cubed

Sea salt and black pepper

Fresh coriander, chopped (to garnish)

Method:

Toast the coriander and cumin seeds in a dry pan until lightly toasted and extremely  fragrant.  Then grind with a pestle and mortar and set to one side.

Heat the oil in a heavy based pan over a medium heat and add the cardamom pods, bay leaves, cloves, cinnamon stick, and chilli flakes until they start to crackle and release their flavours.  

Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, then add the ginger, garlic and the freshly ground coriander and cumin seeds.

Add the curry paste, the chopped tomatoes, and the tomato purée.  Turn the heat up to high and allow the curry to simmer for about 15 minutes, adding a little water if necessary.  

Add the turkey and cook through until the turkey is hot, season with the sea salt and black pepper.

Garnish with fresh coriander and serve with steamed basmati rice, or chapatis minted yoghurt and mango chutney and a nice, fresh, fluffy naan!