Description of this recipe
This Easy Turkey Gravy recipe is a delicious and simple way to elevate your holiday meal. Made using the flavorful drippings from your turkey, combined with butter and a touch of cornstarch, this gravy is rich, smooth, and perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes, stuffing, or your turkey itself. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a homemade gravy that will impress your guests and enhance your festive feast.
Why you will love this recipe
You will love this Easy Turkey Gravy because it captures the essence of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner with minimal effort. It utilizes the natural flavors from the turkey drippings, ensuring that every bite is infused with that classic savory taste. The recipe is forgiving and adaptable; you can adjust the thickness to your preference and season it to suit your palate. Plus, it can be made in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect last-minute addition to your holiday spread.
Introduction
Thanksgiving and other festive gatherings are often centered around a beautifully roasted turkey. However, what truly brings the meal together is the gravy that accompanies it. This Easy Turkey Gravy recipe allows you to harness the full flavor of your turkey drippings, ensuring that your gravy is not only delicious but also a reflection of the main dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding, making it a must-have for your holiday repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup turkey drippings
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 cups turkey broth (made from neck and gizzard)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1:
Begin by collecting the turkey drippings from your roasting pan once your turkey is done cooking. This will form the base of your gravy, packed with flavor.
Step 2:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and turkey drippings together. Stir gently until fully combined, allowing the mixture to bubble slightly.
Step 3:
Sprinkle the cornstarch into the melted butter and drippings. Whisk continuously to ensure there are no lumps and that the cornstarch begins to cook slightly. This should take about 2-3 minutes, and the mixture will start to turn a light brown color.
Step 4:
Gradually pour in the turkey broth while continuing to whisk. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to incorporate all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Step 5:
Continue to stir the gravy as it simmers, allowing it to thicken to your desired consistency. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once thickened, remove from heat and serve warm.
COOKING Rating:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Serving Suggestions:
This Easy Turkey Gravy is perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, stuffing, or roasted vegetables. It can also be used as a sauce for turkey sandwiches the next day, adding a deliciously moist element to your leftovers. For a complete meal, pair it with cranberry sauce and a side of green beans for a well-rounded plate.Tips:
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the gravy while it simmers.
- If your gravy is too thick, simply whisk in a little more turkey broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Store any leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little broth if it thickens too much.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 150 (per serving)
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 300mg
Conclusion
This Easy Turkey Gravy recipe is a delightful addition to any holiday table. Its simplicity and rich flavor make it a favorite among home cooks and guests alike. With just a few ingredients and a short cooking time, you can create a homemade gravy that enhances your turkey dinner and leaves everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a family gathering, this gravy is sure to be a hit!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
1. Can I use store-bought broth instead of homemade?
Yes, you can use store-bought turkey or chicken broth if you don’t have homemade broth on hand. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as store-bought broths can be saltier.
2. How can I make my gravy gluten-free?
To make this gravy gluten-free, substitute the cornstarch with a gluten-free flour blend or use arrowroot powder. Ensure that the broth is also gluten-free.
3. What if I don’t have enough drippings?
If you don’t have enough turkey drippings, simply increase the amount of butter and use additional broth to maintain the flavor balance.
4. Can I prepare this gravy ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the gravy ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stove. If it thickens too much, add a little broth to loosen it up.
5. How do I store leftover gravy?
Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.