How long can you keep turkey soup in a pot on the stove?

It's generally not recommended to keep turkey soup in a pot on the stove for extended periods. Here's why:

* Food Safety: Leaving soup on the stove at room temperature creates a "danger zone" (between 40°F and 140°F) where bacteria can rapidly multiply. This significantly increases the risk of foodborne illness.

* Quality: As time passes, the flavors of the soup can become muted and the texture can change. It's best to enjoy soup fresh or store it properly.

Here's what you can do instead:

* Refrigerate: Transfer the soup into airtight containers and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking. It will stay safe to eat for 3-4 days.

* Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers. It can last in the freezer for 2-3 months.

* Reheat: When you're ready to eat, reheat the soup thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave until it reaches a steaming temperature (at least 165°F).

Bottom line: It's safer and tastier to keep your turkey soup refrigerated or frozen rather than leaving it on the stove for extended periods.