Christmas dinner leftovers In many ways, Boxing Day is the best holiday of all. The hard work is done and it's time to put your feet up and relax. The wrapping paper is cleared away, old films to watch on the telly and the leftovers in the fridge are testament to a full day of feasting. Now, time for a snack!

Take stock with your turkey

Thai flavoured turkey and noodle soup

Turkey and ham pie

Roast vegetable bubble and squeak

Potato and smoked salmon cake

Christmas pudding ice cream

While a cold turkey sandwich may suffice on Christmas night, there are plenty of ideas to give Boxing Day leftovers a life of their own. Even if you didn't have hordes to cook for on Christmas day, you'll be glad that you plumped for that slightly larger turkey, a few more roast potatoes and an extra sprout or two.

Take stock with your turkey

Strip all the extra meat off the carcass and pile the bones into the largest pot you have. You may need to break off the legs or cut the breast in half to fit it in. Cover with cold water and add a quartered onion (leave the skin on - it gives the stock a lovely golden colour).

Peel and roughly chop two carrots and two celery stalks and add along with fresh parsley, a bay leaf, ten or so black peppercorns and a few raw mushrooms, if you have them. Slowly bring the stock to the boil, skimming off any foam that rises to the top. Reduce the heat so it simmers gently for as long as you can - several hours is ideal, skimming occasionally.

What you have is the basis for a myriad of soups and sauces - you can also freeze smaller portions for use another time.

Thai flavoured turkey and noodle soup

Cook 250g of rice noodles according to the packet instructions, drain and set aside. Heat a little oil in a large saucepan and fry 4-5 chopped spring onions, a head of sliced pak choi, a clove of crushed garlic and half a teaspoon of chopped ginger.

Add a tablespoon of red Thai curry paste and pour over one and a half litres of turkey stock. Add a good handful of leftover turkey meat cut into chunks and simmer the soup for 5 minutes so the flavours have time to mingle.

Add 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and the juice of a lime. Divide the noodles between four bowls and ladle in the soup. Garnish with fresh mint or coriander leaves.

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Boxing Day bites

Take stock with your turkey

Thai flavoured turkey and noodle soup