Homemade Commander’s Palace Turtle Soup

As a food lover and a travel enthusiast, I’ve always been drawn to the stories that dishes tell about a place’s culture and history. This time, it’s all about Commander’s Palace Turtle Soup!

As we started our trip in Louisiana in this beautiful late April weather – sunny day in New Orleans, I found myself stepping through the iconic turquoise and white striped awning of Commander’s Palace, a landmark of the Garden District since 1893. Known for its haute Creole cuisine and a breeding ground for some of the city’s most renowned chefs, this restaurant promised not just a meal but an experience steeped in tradition.

The highlight of my visit was to indulge in a dish that carries with it as much history as the establishment itself: the Turtle Soup. As I settled into the refined yet welcoming dining room, the anticipation built up. Turtle Soup, a classic Creole dish, is a rarity, a culinary relic from a different era that Commander’s Palace has preserved with utmost reverence.

The soup arrived, steaming and richly aromatic. The first spoonful was a revelation – complex and bold with layers of flavor. Made from a base of slow-cooked turtle meat, the soup was thickened to perfection and seasoned with a blend of Creole spices that spoke of the diverse cultural influences that New Orleans is known for. A dash of sherry added tableside was the final flourish that elevated the flavors to a whole new level.

As I savored each spoonful, the server shared tales of the restaurant’s storied past, from legendary dining moments to the famous chefs who had helmed the kitchen. Eating Turtle Soup at Commander’s Palace wasn’t just about the taste—it was about connecting with a piece of New Orleans’ culinary heritage.

This experience wasn’t just a meal; it was a journey through time. It reminded me why food is so integral to understanding a place. In every bite, there was a story, a piece of history, and a tradition that Commander’s Palace has kept alive amidst a rapidly evolving culinary landscape.

Inspired by the unforgettable experience at Commander’s Palace and the rich culinary history of New Orleans, I decided to bring a piece of that heritage into my own kitchen. While the traditional Turtle Soup is a classic, I’ve crafted a version that is both accessible and respectful of its origins, using readily available ingredients without compromising the authentic flavors that define this Creole masterpiece.

Inspired Recipe: Homemade Commander’s Palace Turtle Soup with a Modern Twist

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs of veal, finely chopped (as a substitute for turtle meat)
• 7 oz of unsalted butter
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour (or use cornstarch for a gluten-free option)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 stalks of celery, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of tomato purée
• 6 cups of beef or vegetable stock (for a vegetarian version)
• 1/4 cup of dry sherry
• Juice of one lemon
• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, minced
• 3 hard-boiled eggs, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Creole seasoning for an authentic touch

Directions:

1. Roux Preparation: In a large saucepan, melt half the butter over medium heat. Gradually add flour, stirring continuously, until the mixture turns a nutty brown color. This roux will thicken and flavor the soup.
2. Meat Sautéing: In a separate pan, heat the remaining butter and brown the veal chunks over high heat. This step is crucial for developing deep flavors.
3. Vegetable Cooking: Add onions, celery, and garlic to the veal, cooking until they are soft and translucent. Season with Creole spices to introduce that quintessential New Orleans flavor.
4. Simmering: Mix in the tomato purée and stock, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. Thickening: Gradually incorporate the roux into the simmering soup, stirring continuously to ensure a smooth consistency without lumps.
6. Final Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and more Creole spices if needed. Stir in lemon juice, chopped eggs, and parsley, heating through for a few more minutes.
7. Serving: Ladle the soup into bowls, and add a splash of sherry to each just before serving to enhance the flavors and add a touch of elegance.

Chef’s Tips:

• Sherry Selection: Choose a good quality dry sherry, as it significantly affects the flavor of the soup.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve this soup as a starter for a Creole-themed dinner party or as a hearty main course with crusty bread on a chilly evening.
• Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. Just reheat gently and adjust the seasoning before serving.