Ultimate Turkey Gravy from Drippings Recipe for Holidays

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The aroma of turkey gravy from drippings wafts through the air, capturing the essence of family gatherings and festive feasts. Picture rich, savory flavors enveloping your taste buds, while a silky texture coats your mouth. It’s not just gravy; it’s the heart of every holiday dinner.

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I recall my first attempt at making turkey gravy from drippings. I nervously stirred the pot, hoping to create something worthy of my grandmother’s legendary recipe. Little did I know, this delightful creation would become a staple at our family table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This turkey gravy from drippings is incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy cooks
  • The flavor profile is rich and comforting, enhancing any dish it accompanies
  • Visually, its glossy finish adds elegance to your plate
  • Not only does it complement turkey, but it’s also versatile enough for meats, potatoes, and more

One Thanksgiving, my cousin tried to use store-bought gravy instead of my homemade version. Let’s just say the disappointed looks on everyone’s faces were more than enough to ensure that mistake never happened again.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Turkey Drippings: Collect all those flavorful juices from your roasted turkey for the best results.

  • Chicken or Turkey Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the salt levels in your gravy.

  • All-Purpose Flour: This will help thicken your gravy; sift it first for a lump-free consistency.

  • Unsalted Butter: A little butter adds richness and depth to your final product.

  • Salt and Pepper: Adjust these seasonings according to your taste preference.

  • Fresh Herbs (Optional): Thyme or sage can elevate the flavor profile with aromatic notes.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Turkey Gravy from Drippings

How to Make Turkey Gravy from Drippings

Prepare Your Workstation: Gather all ingredients and tools like a whisk and a saucepan. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother and less chaotic.

Collect the Drippings: After roasting your turkey, pour the drippings into a measuring cup. Let it sit for a few minutes so the fat rises to the top.

Skim Off Excess Fat: Using a spoon or separator, remove excess fat from the top of the drippings while leaving behind those delicious flavors.

Create a Roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter until bubbly. Gradually whisk in ¼ cup of flour until smooth and golden brown.

Add Broth and Drippings: Slowly pour in 2 cups of broth followed by 1 cup of reserved drippings. Whisk continuously until you achieve a silky texture without lumps.

Season and Simmer: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-10 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally for even cooking.

This turkey gravy from drippings is not just an afterthought; it’s an essential part of any meal that brings people together around the table. With every bite drenched in its savory goodness, you’ll be met with smiles all around—guaranteed!

You Must Know

  • Turkey gravy from drippings is a game changer for holiday meals
  • It elevates your dish with rich flavor, and the aroma fills your kitchen, making everyone feel at home
  • Plus, it’s a fantastic way to minimize waste and make use of those savory drippings!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by collecting drippings right after roasting your turkey. Make sure to skim off excess fat before adding flour for a smoother gravy.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your turkey gravy by adding herbs like thyme or sage. A splash of white wine can also enhance the flavor beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring constantly to maintain texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfect turkey gravy from drippings, always taste as you go; seasoning can vary based on your turkey
  • Don’t rush the cooking process; let flavors develop fully for best results
  • If it thickens too much, add a little broth to adjust consistency

The first time I made turkey gravy from drippings, my family couldn’t stop raving about it! They begged me to make extra for dipping bread, which turned into a fun family tradition.

FAQ

How do I ensure my turkey gravy is not lumpy?

Whisk the flour into the drippings slowly to avoid lumps forming in your gravy.

Can I use chicken drippings for this recipe?

Yes, chicken drippings work well and provide a different yet delicious flavor profile.

What should I do if my gravy is too salty?

Add a bit of water or unsalted broth gradually until you reach your desired saltiness.

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Turkey Gravy from Drippings


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

Description

Indulge in the rich, savory delight of homemade turkey gravy made from drippings, perfect for holiday feasts or family gatherings. This easy-to-follow recipe captures the essence of festive meals, enhancing your dishes with its silky texture and robust flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious gravy that complements turkey, potatoes, and more, ensuring every bite is filled with warmth and comfort.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup turkey drippings
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey broth
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour (sifted)
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs (optional, such as thyme or sage)

Instructions

  1. Prepare your workstation by gathering all ingredients and a whisk.
  2. Collect turkey drippings after roasting; let them sit for a few minutes to allow fat to rise.
  3. Skim excess fat off the drippings using a spoon.
  4. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Gradually whisk in flour until smooth and golden brown.
  5. Slowly add broth and drippings while whisking continuously until lumps disappear and mixture is silky.
  6. Season with salt and pepper; simmer for 5-10 minutes until thickened.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Condiment
  • Method: Sauce preparation
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 cup (60g)
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

 

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