Ah, Perfect turkey gravy – it’s not just a sauce, it’s a story in every spoonful. Picture this: a bustling kitchen, the air rich with the aroma of roasting turkey, laughter echoing off the walls as family gathers. There’s something magical about making gravy from scratch, especially with those secret weapons – turkey neck and gizzards. These special ingredients transform a simple sauce into a culinary masterpiece.
Remember the time Uncle Joe tried to make gravy and ended up with a lumpy mess? We still laugh about it every Thanksgiving. But this year, it’s your turn to shine with this Perfect Turkey Gravy. It’s a little bit of tradition, a dash of love, and a whole lot of flavor, ready to take center stage at your holiday feast.
Personal Note: “Gravy Boat of Memories”
Title: “Gravy Boat of Memories”
Every time I whip up this gravy, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen. The way she’d hum her favorite tunes as she stirred the pot, her secret ingredient (a hint of soy sauce – who would’ve thought?), and how she insisted on using Marmite, although it’s optional for us. The rich, velvety texture of this gravy, infused with the essence of mixed herbs and love, always brings comfort.
Tasting this gravy is like a warm hug from the past. I remember the first time I served it – there were “oohs” and “aahs” all around the table. My cousin, who’s a bit of a food critic, went for seconds, then thirds. It was a hit! And now, I’m sharing this little piece of my heart with you. So, grab your whisk, let’s create not just a gravy, but a memory that will linger long after the last bite. What are your favorite holiday kitchen memories? Let’s make this gravy a part of them.
Category: Recipe – cuisine: Holiday – prep time: 5 minutes – cook time: 105 minutes – total time: 110 minutes
- Prep & Cook: 110 minutes to gravy greatness.
- Rich Flavor: Made with turkey neck, gizzards, and fresh herbs.
- Versatile: Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive meal.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared up to 5 days in advance.
Perfect Turkey Gravy Recipe
This Perfect Turkey Gravy recipe is a must-have for your holiday table. Rich, deeply flavored, and sure to please everyone!
Ingredients
- Turkey neck, gizzards, and trimmings
- Vegetable Oil: 1 tablespoon (15ml)
- Large Onion: Roughly chopped
- Large Carrot: Peeled, roughly chopped
- Celery Ribs: Roughly chopped
- Low-Sodium Chicken Stock: 1 1/2 quarts (about 1.5L)
- Soy Sauce: 1 teaspoon (5ml)
- Marmite: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
- Mixed Herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary)
- Bay Leaves: 2
- Butter: 3 tablespoons (45g)
- Flour: 1/4 cup (1 1/2 ounces)
- Kosher Salt and Black Pepper
Directions
- Brown the Bits: Chop and brown turkey parts with veggies.
- Simmer: Add stock, herbs, soy sauce, and Marmite. Simmer for an hour, strain.
- Make Roux: Cook butter and flour, then whisk in the fortified broth.
- Thicken: Simmer until it’s a perfect gravy consistency.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste.
Special Equipment
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 40
- Fat: 2g
- Carbs: 2g
- Protein: 2g
Storage
- Refrigerate: Up to 5 days in a sealed container.
Looking for more holiday recipes? Explore our festive recipe collection for more inspiration.
Special Equipment
- Cleaver: Essential for chopping turkey parts efficiently.
- Fine-Mesh Strainer: Ensures a smooth, lump-free gravy.
Serving Suggestions
- Ideal With: Turkey, mashed potatoes, or over stuffing.
- Herb Twist: Experiment with different herbs for unique flavors.
- Classic Pairings: Serve with roasted turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, or over savory stuffing.
- Herb Infusion: Customize by infusing with different herb combinations, such as sage or oregano, for a unique twist.
Tips & Variations
- Roux Ratio: Adjust the butter and flour ratio for thicker or thinner gravy.
- Low-Fat Version: Substitute butter with olive oil for a lighter option.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use cornstarch instead of flour for a gluten-free gravy.
Common Questions & Answers
-
Can I make this vegetarian?
- Yes! Substitute turkey parts with mushrooms and vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
-
What if I don’t have Marmite?
- Marmite adds umami flavor, but you can skip it or use a bit of Worcestershire sauce as a substitute.
-
How can I store leftover gravy?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer shelf life.
-
Can I prepare this gravy in advance?
- Absolutely! Make it up to 5 days ahead and reheat gently, stirring occasionally.
Looking for more holiday recipes? Check out our festive recipe collection for more inspiration.
Enjoy Your Homemade Gravy!
