Elevate your holiday meal with our Best Ever Turkey Gravy recipe. Made with rich turkey drippings, savory broth, and a blend of aromatic seasonings, this gravy is the perfect complement to roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and all your favorite Thanksgiving sides. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a taste of comfort food, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup turkey drippings (from roasted turkey), optional but adds depth of flavor
- 4 cups turkey or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Base:
- If using turkey drippings, strain them from the roasting pan into a measuring cup or bowl. Skim off any excess fat and set aside. If not using drippings, skip this step.
- Heat the Broth:
- In a saucepan, heat the turkey or chicken broth over medium heat until hot but not boiling. Keep warm while you prepare the roux.
- Make the Roux:
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, gradually whisk in the flour until smooth, creating a thick paste known as a roux.
- Cook the Roux:
- Continue to cook the roux, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes or until it turns a golden brown color. This helps to develop a nutty flavor and removes the raw taste of the flour.
- Add the Broth:
- Slowly pour the hot broth into the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Simmer and Thicken:
- Bring the gravy to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the gravy to simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. This typically takes about 5-10 minutes.
- Season to Taste:
- Once the gravy has thickened, season it with poultry seasoning (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Finish and Serve:
- If using turkey drippings, stir them into the gravy for added flavor and richness. Remove the gravy from the heat and transfer it to a gravy boat or serving dish.
- Enjoy with Your Meal:
- Serve the Best Ever Turkey Gravy alongside roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and all your favorite holiday dishes. Enjoy the delicious flavors of this homemade gravy as you celebrate with family and friends!
Cook’s Tips and Variations:
- Smooth Consistency: For a smoother gravy, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before serving to remove any lumps or bits of flour.
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences. Add a pinch of sage, thyme, or rosemary for extra herbal flavor, or a splash of white wine for richness.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the gravy in advance and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave just before serving. If it thickens too much upon reheating, simply whisk in a little extra broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I make this gravy gluten-free? A: Yes, you can substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch for the regular flour to make this gravy gluten-free. Be sure to use gluten-free broth as well.
Q: Can I freeze leftover gravy? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I use store-bought broth instead of homemade? A: Absolutely! Store-bought turkey or chicken broth works perfectly fine in this recipe. Just be sure to use low-sodium broth if you prefer to control the saltiness of the gravy.
Q: How do I adjust the consistency of the gravy? A: If the gravy is too thick, simply whisk in a little extra broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, continue to simmer it until it thickens further.
No holiday feast is complete without a generous ladle of our Best Ever Turkey Gravy. With its rich flavor, velvety texture, and aromatic seasonings, this homemade gravy is sure to become a beloved addition to your holiday table. Whether drizzled over slices of roasted turkey, spooned onto fluffy mashed potatoes, or used as a dipping sauce for savory stuffing, this gravy brings warmth and comfort to every bite. So gather your ingredients, follow our simple steps, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of this classic holiday favorite!