Turkey Gravy: The Perfect Holiday Addition

Introduction

Turkey gravy is a quintessential part of any Thanksgiving or holiday meal, adding a rich, savory touch to your feast. This homemade turkey gravy recipe is straightforward and results in a silky, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup turkey drippings (or butter if no drippings are available)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups turkey stock (or chicken broth)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley), chopped

Directions

1. Collect the Drippings: After roasting your turkey, pour the drippings from the pan into a heatproof bowl. Allow it to sit for a few minutes so the fat rises to the top. Skim off most of the fat, leaving about 1/4 cup to use for the gravy.
2. Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, heat the 1/4 cup of turkey drippings (or butter) over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture turns golden and bubbly. This creates a roux, which will thicken the gravy.
3. Add the Stock: Gradually whisk in the turkey stock, making sure to stir constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
4. Season: Taste and season the gravy with salt and pepper. For added flavor, stir in chopped fresh herbs like thyme or parsley if desired.
5. Serve: Pour the gravy into a serving dish or gravy boat and serve hot over turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 4-6
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Herbed Gravy: Add chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary, sage, or parsley to enhance the flavor.
• Spicy Gravy: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Wine-Infused Gravy: Add 1/4 cup of white wine to the roux after it’s golden and cook for an additional 2 minutes before adding the stock.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat the gravy over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently. If the gravy is too thick after reheating, whisk in a bit of turkey stock or broth to reach your desired consistency.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use chicken broth instead of turkey stock? Yes, chicken broth can be used as a substitute if turkey stock is not available.
2. What can I use if I don’t have turkey drippings? Butter can be used in place of turkey drippings.
3. How do I make the gravy gluten-free? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
4. Can I make gravy ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
5. How do I avoid lumps in the gravy? Whisk the stock in gradually and continuously stir to avoid lumps.
6. What if my gravy turns out too thin? Simmer it longer to reduce and thicken, or mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and whisk it into the gravy.
7. How can I thicken gravy without flour? Use cornstarch or arrowroot powder as an alternative thickening agent.
8. Can I use a gravy boat to serve? Yes, a gravy boat is ideal for serving gravy.
9. What is the best way to reheat frozen gravy? Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it gently on the stovetop.
10. Can I add more flavor to the gravy? Yes, additional seasoning or a splash of wine can enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

This turkey gravy recipe is a simple yet essential component of your holiday meal, offering a rich and savory addition to your dishes. With its straightforward preparation and room for customization, it’s sure to become a staple in your festive cooking repertoire. Enjoy the compliments as you serve up this delightful gravy with your Thanksgiving or holiday feast!

Print