Perfect Turkey Gravy 🦃🍗

Posted by by Sara 1 year Ago 345 Views

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups turkey drippings (from a roasted turkey)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or turkey broth if available)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional, for added flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for a richer gravy)

Instructions:

Prepare the gravy base:

  1. Collect the drippings: After roasting your turkey, pour the drippings from the roasting pan into a bowl. Skim off most of the fat, reserving about 2 tablespoons. You can also use some turkey stock if you don’t have enough drippings.
  2. Make a roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture turns light golden and bubbly. This helps create a smooth base for the gravy.

Add the liquid:

  1. Add the drippings and broth: Gradually pour in the turkey drippings and chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture comes to a simmer.
  2. Simmer: Allow the gravy to simmer for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. It will thicken as it cooks.

Season and finish:

  1. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. If you like, you can stir in some fresh thyme or other herbs for extra flavor. You can also add a little splash of heavy cream for a richer, velvety gravy.
  2. Strain (optional): For an extra smooth texture, strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any bits of turkey or herbs.

Serve:

  1. Enjoy: Serve the perfect turkey gravy hot over your turkey and mashed potatoes, or alongside any other favorite sides!

Tips:

  • Use the drippings: The best turkey gravy starts with the flavorful drippings from your roasted turkey. If you don’t have enough drippings, make up the difference with store-bought turkey or chicken broth.
  • For smoother gravy: Make sure to whisk the flour and butter thoroughly to avoid lumps. If your gravy does end up lumpy, use a hand blender to smooth it out.
  • Make ahead: Gravy can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
  • Customizing flavor: Add a splash of white wine, sherry, or even a little bit of soy sauce for a deeper flavor profile.

Nutrition (per serving, makes about 8 servings):

  • Calories: 80
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 350mg