How to Make Traditional Thanksgiving Turkey Gravy

Homemade Turkey Gravy Smooth and Creamy

Traditional Thanksgiving turkey gravy has accompanied the Thanksgiving meal for decades. Poured over heaping mounds of delicious mashed potatoes and drizzled over thick slices of golden roasted turkey breast, gravy has earned its place as one item that simply cannot be overlooked. The key to delicious creamy gravy is to make it right in the roaster amid the pan drippings and bits of browned turkey.

Remove the turkey from the roaster and place on a large platter. Allow the drippings to cool slightly. Pour the drippings into a large measuring cup or bowl. You will need 1 1/2 tablesppons of fat for each cup of gravy. Measure the desired amount of fat and add to the roaster. Skim excess fat from the top of the drippings with a large spoon and discard, reserving the liquid drippings for the garvy.

Place the roaster across two burners and set to medium high. Scrape the bottom and sides of the pan to loosen browned bits of turkey, stuffing or skin. Pay close attention to browned areas and loosen it with a wooden spoon. Not only will this create a creamy brown gravy it will enhance the turkey flavor, too.

Add flour to the drippings. Measure 1 1/2 tablespoons of flour for each cup of desired gravy and add it to the fat. You should have equal amountsof fat and flour. Stir to create a thick smooth paste. Watch the fat and flour mixture carefully as it browns quickly. Once the mixture is a golden brown, it is time to add the liquids.

Add one cup of pan drippings for each cup of gravy. Add cold water to the drippings get the desired amount of liquid, if necessary. Whisk with a wire wisk as you add the liquid. Bring to a boil stirring or whisking constantly to prevent lumps and cook until the gravy reaches the desired consistency.

Adjust the consistency of the gravy by adding more cold water to thin or adding a mixture of flour and water to thicken. Simply place equal amounts of flour and water in a small jar and replace the cover. Shake vigorously until it forms smooth paste.