Homemade Turkey Gravy
Before we dive into the magic of homemade turkey gravy, let’s take a moment to consider what dishes complement this rich, flavorful sauce perfectly
Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Homemade Turkey Gravy
Servings: 6
Calories: 60kcal
- Turkey Drippings: The flavorful essence of your turkey.
- Low-Sodium Turkey or Chicken Broth: This will serve as your base.
- Unsalted Butter: For richness.
- All-Purpose Flour: Your thickener.
- Worcestershire Sauce: To add depth.
- Seasonings: A sprinkle of salt pepper, and perhaps some herbs you enjoy.
Step 1: Collect the Drippings
Step 2: Skim the Fat
Once the drippings have settled, you will notice a layer of fat on top. This is good! Use a spoon or a fat separator to skim it off. You’ll want to reserve some fat for the gravy while ensuring plenty of liquid remains. Aim for about ¼ cup of fat, balancing it with the good juices.
Step 3: Prepare the Roux
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter along with an equal amount of the skimmed fat. Once bubbling, sprinkle in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until it turns a light golden color. This roux is the backbone of your gravy, giving it body and thickness.
Step 5: Season to Taste
Once your gravy has thickened, add in 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce and season with salt, pepper, or any herbs you fancy. I often add a dash of fresh thyme or minced garlic for that cozy finish.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for a good quality broth and fresh herbs. They can make a world of difference.
- Adjust Thickness: If your gravy is too thick, add more broth until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, allow it to simmer longer to reduce.
- Strain for Smoothness: For a more refined texture, strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare your gravy ahead of time. Simply reheat it gently on the stove before serving and whisk in any extra broth to loosen.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add in ingredients like garlic, herbs, or even a splash of wine for a different flavor profile.
Calories: 60kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 1.5g | Fat: 3.5g | Sodium: 200mg