How to Make Easy Old-Fashioned Turkey Giblet Gravy
Giblet gravy is a rich, flavorful sauce made from turkey giblets, perfect for drizzling over turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing. This easy recipe combines turkey drippings, flour, and giblet broth to create a savory, comforting gravy. Customize it with optional add-ins like sautéed onions or mushrooms for extra flavor. Ideal for holiday meals, this gravy brings a warm, homemade touch to your table!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
- Cooked giblets (gizzard, neck, and liver, optional)
- Reserved giblet broth
- Fat (turkey drippings, tallow, or any fat of your choice)
- Flour (for thickening)
- Salt and pepper (for seasoning)
- Additional broth (chicken or vegetable broth, as needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the Giblets:
- Rinse the giblets under cold water to remove any impurities.
- In a saucepan, cover the giblets with water and simmer for about an hour to make a flavorful broth.
- After cooking, chop the giblets into your desired size (fine for smoother gravy, coarser for chunkier texture).
- Make the Roux:
- In a separate saucepan, melt your fat (turkey drippings, tallow, or your preferred fat) over medium-low heat.
- Slowly whisk in flour to form a paste, ensuring it absorbs all the fat. Stir continuously to avoid lumps.
- Let the roux cook for 5-8 minutes until it turns a light brown color. This adds flavor without getting too dark.
- Add the Broth:
- Gradually pour in the reserved giblet broth while whisking to keep everything smooth.
- Add additional broth (chicken or vegetable) to reach your preferred consistency, aiming for about 4 cups of liquid for a rich gravy.
- Simmer and Thicken:
- Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer and continue stirring. This will thicken the gravy as the flour in the roux activates.
- If the gravy is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer. If it’s too thick, stir in more broth or water until it reaches your desired thickness. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Finish the Gravy:
- Stir in the chopped giblets and ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout the gravy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning one last time.
- Serve:
- Pour the giblet gravy over turkey slices, mashed potatoes, or stuffing, or serve it on the side for guests to help themselves.
- For added flair, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
Notes
Storage:
- Let the gravy cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.
- To reheat, warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to restore its consistency if needed.
Optional Add-ins:
- Experiment by adding sautéed onions, garlic, or mushrooms to the roux for an extra flavor boost!
- Some people even add boiled eggs to the gravy!
Enjoy your homemade giblet gravy, bringing warmth and deliciousness to your holiday table! 🍽️