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Classic Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy

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Pixicook editorial team

Craft a delectable turkey gravy that's perfect for your festive gatherings. This gravy is designed to be made in advance, eliminating the need for last-minute preparations. It's a versatile accompaniment that doesn't rely on pan drippings, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Ingredients for Classic Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy

units in
USchevron
serves
16 peoplechevron

Turkey Trimmings, Cut into 1-inch pieces

cups

Onion, Chopped

each

Carrot, Chopped

each

Celery Rib, Chopped

each

Parsley

sprigs

Garlic Clove, Peeled

each

Black Pepper

teaspoons

Salt

teaspoons

Unsalted Butter

tablespoons

All Purpose Flour

tablespoons

Defatted Turkey Drippings, Optional

cups

How to Make Classic Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy

1. Broth Base

In a Dutch oven, combine 2 cups chicken broth, turkey neck, giblets, and trimmings. Bring to a vigorous simmer over high heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid evaporates and the trimmings start to sizzle (about 20 minutes).

2. Fond Creation

Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until a dark fond forms on the bottom of the pot (2-4 additional minutes).

3. Aromatic Sauté

Lower heat to medium-high. Mix in the onion, carrot, celery, parsley, thyme, garlic, pepper, and salt. Cook, stirring often, until the onion turns translucent (8-10 minutes).

4. Wine Deglaze

Pour in the white wine, bringing it to a simmer while scraping up the browned bits.

5. Stock Completion

Add the remaining 4 cups chicken broth and return to a simmer over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 1 hour. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh strainer set over a bowl; discard the solids. You should have 3½ to 4 cups stock. If not using immediately, the turkey stock can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.

6. Roux Base

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Blend in the flour and increase heat to medium-high. Stir constantly until the mixture turns a deep golden brown (5-8 minutes).

7. Gravy Thickening

Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in the strained stock. Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer until thickened (about 5 minutes).

8. Final Seasoning

Stir in turkey drippings if using. Adjust the gravy's consistency with extra broth if needed. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Variations

Beef Gravy

Use beef stock and drippings, add red wine. Perfect for beef dishes.

Chicken Gravy

Use chicken drippings or stock with chicken fat. Ideal for chicken dishes.

Mushroom Umami

Incorporate finely chopped cremini or shiitake mushrooms for earthy flavor. Preparation

Vegetarian Mushroom Gravy

Use vegetable stock and sautéed mushrooms with soy sauce or miso for umami without meat.

Herb Infusions

Add fresh or dried sage, rosemary, or thyme to the stock for a classic seasoning. Preparation

Pitfalls and tips

Quality Ingredients

Use homemade turkey stock and good quality butter for the roux.

Whisking the Roux

Gradually add liquid and whisk constantly to prevent lumps.

Roasting the Bones

Roast turkey parts until well-browned to add depth and complexity.

Make-Ahead Strategy

Cool down quickly and store properly; reheat gently, adding stock if needed.

Roux Ratio

Maintain equal parts by weight of fat to flour, cook until light brown.

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