Turkey Gravy
Turkey gravy is the quintessential sauce that elevates your holiday feasts. With its rich flavor and silky texture, it effortlessly enhances turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing. This recipe is simple yet rewarding, ensuring that your gatherings are filled with warmth and deliciousness. Let’s delve into the ingredients and steps to create this mouthwatering gravy that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
– 2 cups turkey drippings
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– Salt to taste
– Black pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary) for flavor
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 cup): Calories: 80, Protein: 1g, Fat: 5g, Carbohydrates: 8g, Sodium: 200mg. This nutritional breakdown is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Collect turkey drippings from the roasting pan after cooking your turkey.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking until golden brown.
4. Gradually add turkey drippings while whisking continuously.
5. Slowly pour in chicken broth, continuing to whisk.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Add chopped fresh herbs for added flavor.
9. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
10. Serve hot over sliced turkey or alongside mashed potatoes.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute turkey drippings with store-bought turkey stock or chicken broth if you don’t have drippings. For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the gravy.
Serving and Pairings
Turkey gravy pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and even vegetables like green beans. It can also enhance the flavors of biscuits or bread rolls.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be reheated on the stovetop over low heat. Gravy can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw and reheat before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not whisking the roux enough can lead to lumps.
- Adding liquid too quickly can cause separation.
- Overcooking the gravy can result in a burnt taste.
- Not tasting for seasoning can lead to bland gravy.
- Skipping the herbs may result in a less flavorful sauce.
Helpful Tips
- Use a whisk to ensure a smooth consistency.
- Keep the gravy warm until serving to maintain its texture.
- Adjust thickness by adding more broth or flour as needed.
- Experiment with different herbs for unique flavors.
FAQs
What can I use if I don’t have drippings?
If you don’t have turkey drippings, you can use store-bought turkey or chicken broth. Simply enhance it with seasonings and butter for richness.
Can I make gravy ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the gravy ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and reheat it before serving.
How do I fix lumpy gravy?
To fix lumpy gravy, blend it with an immersion blender or strain it through a fine mesh sieve to achieve a smooth texture.
Can I freeze turkey gravy?
Yes, turkey gravy can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
What’s the best way to thicken gravy?
The best way to thicken gravy is by using a roux (butter and flour mixture) or cornstarch mixed with water, added gradually until the desired thickness is reached.
Conclusion
With this turkey gravy recipe, you can add a touch of homemade goodness to your holiday meals. Its rich flavor and velvety texture will impress your guests and elevate any dish. Enjoy making this classic sauce that is sure to become a staple at your festive gatherings!
Turkey Gravy
Ingredients
- 2 cups turkey drippings
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs thyme, rosemary for flavor
Instructions
- Collect turkey drippings from the roasting pan after cooking your turkey.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking until golden brown.
- Gradually add turkey drippings while whisking continuously.
- Slowly pour in chicken broth, continuing to whisk.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add chopped fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot over sliced turkey or alongside mashed potatoes.
