Description
This rich and flavorful Turkey Gravy recipe uses de-fatted turkey drippings combined with butter, onion, and a touch of brandy and fresh sage. Perfectly thickened with flour, it’s an ideal accompaniment to roasted turkey and holiday meals, providing a smooth, savory sauce that enhances every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Turkey Gravy Ingredients
- 2 cups de-fatted turkey drippings (add chicken or turkey stock if you don’t have enough drippings to make the full 2 cups)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (use 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour substitute to make gluten free)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons brandy (optional)
- 1 to 2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Onions: In a large (10 to 12-inch), deep sauté pan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are lightly browned and fragrant. This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of rich flavor for the gravy.
- Add Flour and Seasonings: Sprinkle the flour evenly over the cooked onions, then stir in kosher salt and ground black pepper. Continuously stir and cook the mixture for 1 full minute to cook out the raw flour taste and create a roux that will thicken the gravy.
- Incorporate Drippings: Gradually pour in the turkey drippings while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. This mixture will start to come together as the base of the gravy.
- Add Brandy and Sage: Stir in the optional brandy and chopped fresh sage to add a subtle depth of flavor. These ingredients enhance the herbaceous and aromatic profile of the gravy.
- Simmer Until Thickened: Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer and let it bubble lightly, stirring frequently to avoid scorching. Allow it to thicken for about 4 to 5 minutes until it reaches your preferred consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Carefully taste the hot gravy and adjust salt or pepper as needed. Serve immediately while warm, pairing perfectly with turkey and other holiday dishes.
Notes
- If you don’t have enough turkey drippings, supplement with chicken or turkey stock to reach 2 cups.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Brandy and fresh sage are optional but add wonderful flavor—feel free to omit if preferred.
- You can prepare the gravy ahead and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little stock or water if it thickens too much.
- Use a whisk when adding liquid to roux to ensure a smooth, lump-free gravy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/3 cup (approximate)
- Calories: ninety-five
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 240 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
