Can I freeze Mock Turtle Soup?

Yes, Mock Turtle Soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slowly on the stovetop.

What can I use instead of ginger snaps in Mock Turtle Soup?

If you don’t have ginger snaps, you can substitute with crushed graham crackers and a pinch of ground ginger and cinnamon. However, traditional ginger snaps provide the best flavor.

Is Mock Turtle Soup actually made with turtle?

No, this version of Mock Turtle Soup does not contain turtle. It uses ground beef as a hearty and accessible substitute, mimicking the richness of the original dish.

Is Mock Turtle Soup gluten-free?

By default, Mock Turtle Soup is not gluten-free due to the ginger snaps and some sauces. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free ginger snaps and check that all sauces are certified gluten-free.

Dinner Ideas

Mock Turtle Soup | Classic Comfort Food Bowl

Name: Mock Turtle Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1½ pounds ground beef (90/10 preferred); 3 ounces ginger snaps (about 10–12 cookies); ½ medium onion, finely chopped or grated; 1 cup ketchup; ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; 5–6 thin lemon slices, seeds removed; 3 hard-boiled eggs, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon sherry wine (optional); Kosher salt, to taste; 4 to 6 cups water

by Maria Jannet

25 de May de 2025

Mock Turtle Soup | Classic Comfort Food Bowl

Jump to Recipe

What do vintage cookbooks, Southern grandmas, and British pub menus have in common? They all know the magic of Mock Turtle Soup—a dish with a name that stops you, and a flavor that makes you stay.

Once considered a quirky Victorian-era imitation of green turtle soup, this modern version with ground beef, ginger snaps, and a hint of citrus and sherry, is making a big comeback among food lovers. It’s easy, affordable, and delivers next-level comfort in every spoonful.

If you’ve been Googling “old-fashioned beef soup”, “hearty comfort food recipes”, or “British soup with ginger snaps”—this is the one that checks every box.

What Makes This Mock Turtle Soup So Irresistible?

Here’s why people are obsessed with this dish:

No turtles. Just beefy goodness – Surprisingly meaty and rich, with no exotic ingredients.
A nostalgic time capsule – Taste what your great-grandparents used to make.
Sweet meets savory – Ginger snaps and ketchup balance out deep umami flavors.
Perfect for cozy nights – Think “comfort food in a bowl” with a gourmet twist.
Meal prep gold – This soup actually gets better the next day.

👀 Trending on Pinterest & Reddit for a reason: this soup is a hidden gem in the comfort food world!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Ultimate Mock Turtle Soup

Use this list to prep once and make it again and again!

To make the best homemade Mock Turtle Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients—each selected to deliver bold flavor, classic texture, and old-world charm.

1½ pounds ground beef – Use 90/10 lean ground beef for the best balance of richness and reduced grease.

3 ounces of ginger snaps – These traditional cookies add sweetness, warmth, and spice. Essential for authentic flavor.

½ medium onion, finely chopped or grated – Grated onions melt into the broth for a smoother consistency.

1 cup ketchup – Adds tanginess and a sweet tomato base that rounds out the soup.

¼ cup Worcestershire sauce – The secret ingredient for deep umami flavor and a savory punch.

½ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a bit of heat; adjust to your spice preference.

5 to 6 thin lemon slices, seeds removed – Simmered on top of the soup to brighten the overall flavor.

3 hard-boiled eggs, finely chopped – A unique addition that adds protein, texture, and traditional flair.

1 tablespoon sherry wine – Optional but highly recommended for depth and complexity.

Kosher salt, to taste – Start lightly and adjust at the end once all flavors have melded.

4 to 6 cups of water, added gradually – Used to thin the soup to your desired consistency.

Pro Tip: You can replace half the beef with ground turkey for a lighter version, or use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian-friendly alternative.

How to Make Mock Turtle Soup Like a Pro (Step-by-Step Breakdown)

Step 1: Brown the Beef Without Oil

Dry heat = better sear. Toss your ground beef into a hot pot and break it up until finely crumbled. Think loose taco meat, not meatballs.

Step 2: Ginger Snap Magic

Soak those ginger snaps in 2 cups hot water while the beef cooks. They’ll melt into the broth and add unreal depth.

Step 3: Build the Base

Add grated onions, ketchup, Worcestershire, and pepper. Then pour in the snap-cookie slurry. Yes, it looks weird. No, you won’t regret it.

Step 4: Add Water (Slowly!)

4–6 cups of water, one cup at a time. Stop when it hits that perfect “soupy but thick” consistency.

Step 5: Simmer Like You Mean It

Lay lemon slices on top and let it simmer low and slow for 1 to 2 hours, partially covered. Stir every 20 minutes. Smells = insane.

Step 6: Finish with Flair

Remove lemons, stir in sherry, eggs, and season to perfection. Adjust acidity if needed with vinegar or more lemon juice.

Expert Tips That Will Transform Your Soup Game

Mash the meat fine for a smoother, soupier texture.
Don’t skip the lemons – they balance out the cookie sweetness.
Let it rest overnight – the flavor deepens dramatically by Day 2.
Add greens – Stir in spinach or kale at the end for a modern twist.
Try smoked paprika for a deeper savory note.

How to Serve Mock Turtle Soup (Beyond Just a Bowl)

Pair It With:

Fresh sourdough bread or cheddar biscuits
A chilled glass of sherry or dry red wine
Classic British sides like mashed peas or Yorkshire pudding

Make It a Meal:
Serve as a starter before roast beef, or make it the centerpiece of a cozy Sunday dinner.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Calories	310 kcal
Protein	24g
Carbs	18g
Fat	17g
Sugar	5g

Health hack: Go leaner on beef or add riced cauliflower to stretch portions!

Storage, Reheating & Freezer Tips

Fridge: Lasts up to 4 days in airtight containers.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm slowly on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen.

Make once, eat all week—this is meal prep heaven.

FAQs : Mock Turtle Soup

Can I make Mock Turtle Soup ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it tastes better after resting overnight.

Is there a vegetarian version of Mock Turtle Soup?

Try using plant-based ground beef and vegetable broth. Skip the eggs or sub in silken tofu.

What’s the best substitute for ginger snaps?

Graham crackers + cinnamon + ginger will do in a pinch—but traditional snaps give the best flavor.

Does Mock Turtle Soup actually taste like turtle soup?

It mimics the texture and richness but has its own unique beefy, sweet-savory character.

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If you’re into retro recipes that actually taste amazing, you’ll love these too!

Final Thoughts: Why This Recipe Deserves a Comeback

This Mock Turtle Soup isn’t just a quirky recipe with a weird name—it’s a comfort food classic, revived and reimagined for modern kitchens. You don’t need a turtle. Just a few humble ingredients, a little time, and a serious craving for bold, nostalgic flavors.

Your Turn – Let’s Make Soup Magic!

If you try this recipe, don’t forget to:

Leave a comment and rate it!
Save to Pinterest so you don’t lose it!

“Now you know how to make the best Mock Turtle Soup at home—and why this dish is the ultimate retro revival!”