Homemade Turkey Gravy: A Flavorful Addition to Your Holiday Feast
No Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner is complete without a generous drizzle of rich, savory gravy over turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing. Elevate your holiday meal with this Homemade Turkey Gravy recipe that boasts deep, robust flavors and a velvety-smooth texture. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive in and create a gravy that will have your guests coming back for seconds!
Ingredients:
Meat:
- 1 packet Poultry seasoning mix
- 4 cups Turkey broth
- 1 packet Turkey gravy mix
- 1 1/2 lbs Turkey wings
Produce:
- 1/4 cup Celery, chopped
- Celery leaves (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1/3 cup Onion, chopped
Baking & Spices:
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 heaping teaspoon Cornstarch
- 1 packet Brown gravy mix
- Kosher salt (to taste)
Dairy:
- 6 tablespoons Butter
Liquids:
- 1/4 cup Water
Instructions:
- Preparing Turkey Broth: In a large pot, combine the turkey wings, poultry seasoning mix, chopped celery, chopped onion, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and kosher salt. Pour in the turkey broth and water, ensuring the turkey wings are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for 1.5 to 2 hours. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
- Straining and Removing Turkey Wings: Once the broth is rich and flavorful, remove the turkey wings from the pot and set them aside to cool slightly. Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean bowl or measuring cup. Discard any solids and excess fat.
- Making Gravy Base: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle the cornstarch over the butter and whisk until smooth. Cook the mixture for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it becomes a light golden color.
- Incorporating Broth and Gravy Mix: Slowly pour in the strained turkey broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
- Adding Gravy Mix: In a small bowl, whisk together the turkey gravy mix and the packet of brown gravy mix with a little water to form a smooth paste. Gradually add the paste to the simmering gravy, whisking constantly until well incorporated.
- Simmering and Adjusting Seasoning: Let the gravy simmer gently for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Finishing Touch: Once the gravy is thickened and seasoned to perfection, remove it from the heat. If desired, strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve for an extra smooth texture.
- Serving: Transfer the gravy to a serving bowl or gravy boat and garnish with celery leaves for a pop of freshness. Serve hot alongside your favorite holiday dishes and enjoy the flavorful goodness!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the turkey broth in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. Simply reheat the broth and continue with the gravy-making process when ready to serve.
- Thickening Agent: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can adjust the amount of cornstarch used or make a slurry with additional cornstarch and water to thicken the gravy further.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor of your gravy by adding fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage during the simmering process. Remove the herbs before serving.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use store-bought turkey broth instead of making my own? A: Yes, you can substitute homemade turkey broth with store-bought turkey or chicken broth. However, making your own broth allows you to control the flavor and seasoning to your liking.
Q: Can I make this gravy gluten-free? A: Absolutely! Simply use a gluten-free turkey gravy mix and ensure that all other ingredients, including the brown gravy mix and cornstarch, are certified gluten-free.
Q: Is there a keto-friendly or low-carb version of this gravy? A: For a keto-friendly version, omit the cornstarch and brown gravy mix, and use xanthan gum or a keto-friendly thickener to achieve the desired consistency. Ensure all other ingredients are keto-friendly and low in carbs.
With its rich flavor and velvety texture, this Homemade Turkey Gravy is the perfect finishing touch to your holiday spread. Whether drizzled over roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing, it adds an extra layer of deliciousness to every bite. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can master the art of gravy-making and impress your guests with this homemade delight.
So, gather your ingredients, don your apron, and get ready to elevate your holiday feast with this flavorful gravy. Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!
