Top 12 Turkey Gravy Questions Answered
September 16, 2020
by Amanda Li Eat Gravy can work wonders to elevate your turkey from meh to marvellous… if you do it right. So we answered the top 12 most frequently asked questions about gravy to help you conquer the unsung hero of Thanksgiving once and for all. Plus, we have an easy recipe for that perfect homemade gravy.
1. What’s a roux? Is it really necessary?
2. How do I know when my roux is ready?
3. I went a little overboard with the salt. How do I fix it?
4. How do I thicken my gravy?
5. How often do I need to stir my gravy?
Whatever you do — don’t neglect your gravy. It’ll get lonely! We know there’s a zillion other things to do on Turkey Day, but it’s important to watch your gravy carefully and whisk often to keep it from scorching.
If it does burn, though, don’t scrape the burnt bits from the bottom of the pan. Just use what’s on top. No one will ever know.
6. Do I really need to use a whisk?
7. How long do I need to cook my gravy for?
Depends on how long it takes your gravy to thicken up. Every pot and stovetop is different, so it’s best not to rely on a timer for this. Instead, wait a few minutes until it thickens to a silky, pourable consistency. Don’t get too excited and dump in more flour to thicken until you’ve given your gravy time to do its thing.
8. When should I season my gravy?
At the very end! As the gravy thickens, its flavours become more intense, which is why it’s best to wait until you’re about to eat before doing a final taste test and adjusting seasonings as appropriate.
9. How do I add even MORE flavour to my gravy?
Jazz things up by adding:
- Caramelized onions and Dijon mustard
- Fresh sage and rosemary
- A splash of bourbon
- 1/2 tablespoon of butter before serving
10. How much gravy should I make per person?
1/3 cup per person is a good standard. BUT if you ask us, there’s no such thing as too much gravy.
11. Can I let my gravy sit for a while once it’s done?
As long as you keep your gravy warm, then you can let it sit. But once it cools down, it becomes thicker, lumpier, and almost pudding-like. So you definitely don’t want that to happen.
12. What if I don’t want all the fat in my gravy?
A gravy separator can help you out by separating fat from your gravy with no mess and no fuss.
Easy Homemade Turkey Gravy Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/4 Cup Turkey Drippings
- 1/4 Cup Flour
- 2 Cups Broth
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Add turkey drippings to roasting pan and stir in flour.
- Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and starting to bubble.
- Stir in broth.
- Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
