The Best Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy: A Stress-Free Holiday Secret
This rich, savory Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy is a holiday game-changer! Made with roasted turkey wings and vegetables, it creates a deep homemade flavor you can prepare days before Thanksgiving. Reheat and enhance with drippings for the best turkey gravy ever.
Equipment
- Dutch oven or roasting pan For roasting turkey wings and vegetables
- Fine-mesh sieve For straining the stock
- Large saucepan To prepare the gravy
- Whisk For smooth, lump-free gravy
Ingredients
- 2 large turkey wings
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 6 cups water
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- to taste salt and black pepper
- optional a few drops of Kitchen Bouquet for color
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place turkey wings, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in a Dutch oven or roasting pan. Roast uncovered for 2 hours until golden brown.
- Remove pot from oven, add 6 cups of water, bring to boil on stovetop. Reduce heat and simmer 45 minutes until reduced to ~4 cups of stock.
- Strain stock through fine-mesh sieve, discarding solids. Refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight. Skim off fat once chilled.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 30–60 seconds to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in turkey stock. Stir in apple cider vinegar. Simmer 5–10 minutes until thickened to desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper. Add Kitchen Bouquet if desired for deeper color. Serve immediately or cool and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Notes
Make up to 3–4 days in advance and reheat before serving. Stir in turkey drippings on the day-of for even more flavor.