Are you tired of bland, store-bought gravy? Craving that rich, savory flavor that only homemade gravy can deliver? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe uses the often-overlooked turkey neck to create a deeply flavorful and incredibly easy turkey gravy. This is the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving feast or any weeknight dinner featuring roasted turkey. Forget the instant stuff – let's make some delicious, homemade gravy! This easy recipe will become a staple in your quick dinner ideas repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 turkey neck
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon sage
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Roasting the Turkey Neck
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the turkey neck in a roasting pan and roast for about 1 hour, or until golden brown and cooked through. This step extracts maximum flavor from the neck. Remove the neck from the pan and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
While the turkey neck roasts, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This simple step adds depth and complexity to your gravy.
Step 3: Making the Gravy
Once the turkey neck has cooled enough to handle, remove the meat from the bones and chop it roughly. Set the bones aside. Add the chopped turkey meat to the skillet with the vegetables.
Step 4: The Roux
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and pepper. Gradually whisk the flour mixture into the skillet with the vegetables and turkey meat, ensuring no lumps form. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This step thickens your gravy.
Step 5: Adding Broth and Seasoning
Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the sage. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency. Taste and season with salt to your preference.
Step 6: Straining (Optional)
For a smoother gravy, strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve. This removes any bits of vegetable or bone fragments for a cleaner presentation.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious homemade turkey gravy immediately over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or your favorite Thanksgiving dishes. This gravy is also excellent as a dipping sauce for roasted turkey.
Cooking Tips for the Best Gravy:
- Don't rush the roux: A well-made roux is key to a smooth and flavorful gravy. Take your time and whisk constantly.
- Use low-sodium broth: This allows you to control the saltiness of your gravy.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Every palate is different, so feel free to add more sage, pepper, or salt to suit your preferences.
- Make it ahead: You can make the gravy ahead of time and reheat it gently before serving.
Variations:
- Mushroom Gravy: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Herb Gravy: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
- Spicy Gravy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 150-200 (depending on serving size and ingredients)
- Protein: Around 5-7 grams
- Fat: Around 10-15 grams
This easy and healthy meal is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. This homemade turkey gravy recipe will impress your family and friends, turning a simple meal into a memorable one. Enjoy!