Growing up in Southern California, one of my favorite family dining spots was Souplantation. This comforting Creamy Herbed Turkey Soup brings back those cozy buffet memories with every warm, savory spoonful.
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Souplantation Creamy Herbed Turkey Soup Recipe
A rich, comforting soup inspired by the beloved Souplantation buffet—perfect any time of year.
What Was Souplantation?
Souplantation (also known as Sweet Tomatoes) was a beloved buffet-style restaurant famous for its fresh soups, salads, baked goods, and seasonal comfort foods. It was a longtime favorite for families throughout Southern California and across the U.S.
From creamy soups and fresh salad bars to muffins and focaccia, Souplantation offered something comforting for everyone. Although the restaurants permanently closed in 2020, many official recipes live on—allowing fans to recreate those nostalgic flavors at home.
Creamy Herbed Turkey Soup
Makes approximately 5 quarts.
Ingredients
- 1 lb turkey breast
- 22 cups water
- 2 1/2 cups diced carrot
- 2 1/2 cups diced celery
- 1/2 lb butter
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 cups diced yellow onion
- 1 1/2 cups white flour
- 5 tablespoons turkey or chicken base
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chopped Italian parsley
- 1/2 cup diced dried cranberries
Instructions
- Cook turkey according to package directions (or use leftover turkey). Cut into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Bring 8 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 1/2 cups celery and 1 1/2 cups carrots and cook for 8 minutes until soft. Strain and cool vegetables, then set aside.
- In a large pot, melt butter. Add garlic, onion, and remaining carrots and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes.
- Stir in flour and cook for an additional 5 minutes over low to medium heat.
- Add 8 cups water and turkey base. Blend with a handheld mixer until smooth.
- Add remaining water, herbs, salt, and pepper. Heat to a low simmer (about 190°F) and cook for 10 minutes until thickened.
- Add cream, parsley, turkey, cranberries, and reserved vegetables. Stir to combine and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Serve warm—delicious on its own or with stuffing for a Thanksgiving-inspired meal.
Recipe Source: sweettomatoesrecipes.com