Description
This rich and flavorful turkey gravy is made from the drippings of a roasted turkey, combined with butter, flour, and herbs to create a smooth, savory sauce perfect for complementing your turkey and side dishes like mashed potatoes. It’s a classic, easy-to-make gravy that enhances the festive meal experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Turkey Gravy Ingredients
- 1 1/2 Cups Drippings From Roasted Turkey
- 4 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 4 Tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
- 1/2 Cup Chicken Stock (optional, if needed)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black Pepper (to taste)
- Fresh Rosemary and Thyme Sprigs (or 1 teaspoon dried herbs, finely chopped)
Instructions
- Collect Turkey Drippings: After removing the roasted turkey from the oven, carefully transfer the drippings into a separate container or measuring cup to capture all the flavorful juices.
- Melt Butter: Place a large pan over medium heat and melt the unsalted butter thoroughly, preparing to make the roux.
- Make Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the melted butter and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes, cooking the flour without browning it to avoid a raw taste.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the turkey drippings and chicken stock (if using), stirring until the mixture is smooth. Add more chicken stock if necessary to achieve your desired gravy thickness.
- Simmer Gravy: Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally and allow it to thicken for about 5 minutes.
- Add Herbs: Stir in fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs, or dried herbs if using, to infuse the gravy with aromatic flavors. Simmer an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Season: Taste your gravy and season with salt and black pepper according to your preference, making sure the flavor is balanced.
- Strain: Remove the pan from heat, then pour the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve to remove lumps and herb remnants, ensuring a silky smooth texture.
- Serve: Transfer the strained gravy to a serving boat or bowl and serve warm alongside your roasted turkey and favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes.
Notes
- If you have extra turkey drippings, you can substitute chicken stock with more drippings for a richer flavor.
- Be careful not to let the roux brown too much, as this can alter the taste and color of the gravy.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more liquid if the gravy becomes too thick during simmering.
- Fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor, but dried herbs work well as a convenient alternative.
- Straining the gravy is important for a smooth finish and to remove any cooked flour lumps or herb bits.
