Classic Turkey Gravy. Perfect for Thanksgiving
Turkey gravy is a must-have for any holiday feast, especially on Thanksgiving. Rich, savory, and smooth, it’s the perfect finishing touch for your roast turkey and mashed potatoes. This easy homemade gravy uses drippings from the turkey and a few simple ingredients to create a flavorful sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you step by step to creating a delicious turkey gravy that enhances your holiday meal.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup turkey drippings (from roast turkey)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups turkey stock (or chicken stock)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh herbs (thyme, sage, or rosemary)
Directions
Collect the Drippings. After roasting your turkey, carefully pour the drippings from the roasting pan into a heatproof container. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the fat to separate from the liquid. Skim off most of the fat, leaving about 1/4 cup of fat with the drippings.
Make a Roux. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux. Whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until the mixture is golden brown and has a nutty aroma.
Add the Stock. Gradually whisk in the turkey stock, starting with a small amount to avoid lumps. Then, add the remaining stock and the turkey drippings, whisking until the mixture is smooth.
Simmer. Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Continue cooking for 5-10 minutes, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
Season and Serve. Taste the gravy and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If desired, stir in some fresh herbs for extra flavor. Serve warm over turkey and sides.
Recipe tips
Make sure the stock you add to the roux is cold or room temperature. Adding hot liquid can cause lumps. Don’t waste the flavorful bits stuck to your roasting pan. You can deglaze the pan with a little bit of turkey stock or white wine and add that to your gravy for an extra depth of flavor. If you prefer a thicker gravy, cook it a bit longer. If it’s too thick, add a splash more stock or water to thin it out.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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