American Turtle Soup

6 steps. Take it one step at a time.

1. 01

   In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, brown the cubed turtle meat

   In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, brown the cubed turtle meat in a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Remove the meat and set aside.

2. 02

   To the same pot, add the remaining oil and the flour

   To the same pot, add the remaining oil and the flour. Whisk constantly over medium heat to create a dark roux (the color of chocolate), being careful not to burn it. This should take about 15-20 minutes.

   20 min
3. 03

   Add the onion, celery, bell pepper, and garlic

   Add the onion, celery, bell pepper, and garlic to the roux. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

   7 min
4. 04

   Stir in the tomato paste

   Stir in the tomato paste, then slowly whisk in the beef stock to avoid lumps. Return the browned turtle meat to the pot.

5. 05

   Bring the soup to a boil

   Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer partially covered for about 1 hour or until the turtle meat is very tender.

   1 hr
6. 06

   Just before serving

   Just before serving, stir in the chopped hard-boiled eggs, lemon juice, and dry sherry. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.