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Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy with Fresh Sage

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A flavorful, easy-to-make turkey gravy infused with fresh sage, perfect for holidays and designed to be made ahead to reduce last-minute stress.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour (can use gluten-free flour)
  • 4 cups (950ml) turkey or chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 8–10 fresh sage leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 small shallot, minced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup drippings from roasted turkey (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until foaming but not browned, about 2 minutes.
  2. Add minced shallot and garlic to the butter and cook for about 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Stir in finely chopped fresh sage leaves and optional fresh thyme; cook for another minute to release oils.
  4. Sprinkle all-purpose flour over the butter and herbs; whisk constantly for 2-3 minutes until the roux bubbles gently and turns light golden.
  5. Gradually whisk in turkey or chicken broth a little at a time to avoid lumps, stirring continuously until smooth. Add turkey drippings if using.
  6. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat and stir frequently; let thicken for 8-10 minutes until gravy coats the back of a spoon.
  7. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  8. Remove from heat and let cool completely; transfer to a heatproof container, cover, and refrigerate overnight or up to 3 days.
  9. Reheat gently over low heat, whisking occasionally; thin with broth or water if too thick before serving.

Notes

Whisk constantly during roux and broth addition to prevent lumps. Use fresh sage for best flavor; if using dried, halve the amount. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan margarine and use plant-based broth. Store gravy in airtight container refrigerated up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently and thin with broth if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey gravy, make-ahead gravy, fresh sage, holiday gravy, Thanksgiving, Christmas, easy gravy, homemade gravy

Find it online: https://yumyep.com/make-ahead-turkey-gravy-with-fresh-sage-easy-recipe-for-holiday-perfection/