This herbed turkey gravy is the perfect addition to your holiday meal! With fresh herbs mixed in, it adds a delicious flavor to your turkey and mashed potatoes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Drippings or Stock: This is the star of your gravy. If you don’t have drippings, use store-bought turkey stock instead. You can also use chicken stock if that’s what you have on hand.
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for this recipe, but you could also use olive oil or even a dairy-free butter for a lighter option. Just keep in mind it will change the flavor slightly.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the classic choice for thickening. If you’re gluten-free, try a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as an alternative. Just mix cornstarch with water before adding it to avoid lumps.
Fresh Herbs: A mix of sage, rosemary, thyme, and parsley brings a lovely flavor. If fresh herbs aren’t available, you could use dried herbs, but cut the amount in half as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Garlic Powder: This is optional but adds a nice touch. If you prefer fresh, one clove of minced garlic can be added instead around the same time as the herbs for a fresher kick.
How Do I Make Sure My Gravy is Lump-Free?
Getting smooth gravy is all about whisking and the right order of adding ingredients. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- After skimming the fat from the drippings, ensure that any solids left in the fat are removed for a cleaner gravy.
- When you whisk in the flour to make your roux, work out any lumps by stirring constantly for those 2-3 minutes.
- Add the turkey drippings (or stock) gradually while whisking continuously. This helps blend everything smoothly without lumps.
- If lumps do appear, don’t panic! Just use an immersion blender right in the saucepan to smooth everything out.
With these tips, you’re on your way to making a deliciously smooth herbed turkey gravy that enhance your turkey meal!
How to Make Herbed Turkey Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups turkey drippings or turkey stock (from roasted turkey pan)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh herbs (a mix of sage, rosemary, thyme, and parsley)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious herbed turkey gravy takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10-15 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at around 20-25 minutes to make this tasty addition to your turkey feast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Gather Your Drippings:
After roasting your turkey, carefully pour the drippings from the pan into a measuring cup or bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes so that the fat rises to the top. Skim off about 1/4 cup of the fat and set it aside to use in your gravy.
2. Start the Roux:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the turkey fat that you skimmed off, or use 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Once the fat is melted, whisk in the flour steadily, mixing for about 2-3 minutes. This will create a roux, which thickens your gravy. Make sure to keep stirring so it doesn’t burn! You want it to turn a light golden brown.
3. Adding the Liquid:
Now it’s time to gradually whisk in the turkey drippings (or turkey stock). Stir constantly while adding it in to avoid any lumps forming. Keep mixing until everything is well blended.
4. Thicken the Gravy:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and keep stirring. You’ll notice it starts to thicken—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush it; this is where the flavors come together!
5. Flavoring the Gravy:
Next, add in your finely chopped fresh herbs and the garlic powder if you’re using it. Let it simmer for another minute. This allows the herbs to release their wonderful flavors into your gravy.
6. Season to Taste:
Finally, taste your gravy! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Adjust the seasoning until it’s perfect for your palate.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the gravy from heat. Serve it warm over your turkey and sides. It’s a comforting and delicious addition that everyone will love!
This herbed turkey gravy is creamy, flavorful, and packed with fresh herbs—just the thing to elevate your turkey dinner! Enjoy!
Can I Use Chicken Stock Instead of Turkey Stock?
Absolutely! If you don’t have turkey stock on hand, chicken stock works perfectly as a substitute. It will still provide a rich flavor for your gravy.
What if My Gravy is Too Thin?
If your gravy isn’t thickening to your liking, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour with a little cold water to create a slurry. Gradually whisk it into the simmering gravy until it reaches your desired thickness.
How Do I Store Leftover Gravy?
Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock if it appears too thick.
Can I Make This Gravy Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the gravy a day ahead and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just remember to stir it well and check the seasoning before serving, as flavors can develop and change slightly during storage!
