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Classic Giblet Gravy Recipe

75 min 8 servings Medium
Giblet gravy is a traditional accompaniment to holiday meals, particularly Thanksgiving and Christmas. Made from the giblets of the turkey, including the heart, liver, and gizzard, this gravy is simmered to perfection with aromatic vegetables and herbs. This version of giblet gravy captures the essence of classic holiday cooking, ensuring that each spoonful is rich, savoury, and deeply satisfying. Perfect for pouring over turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing, it's a must-have on the festive dinner table.

Instructions

1

Prepare giblet broth

Place giblets, onion, celery, carrot, garlic, salt, and pepper in a medium saucepan. Add water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

2

Simmer the broth

Reduce heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes, skimming foam as needed.

Pro tip: Cover partially to prevent too much evaporation.

3

Strain broth

Remove from heat and strain broth through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding solids. Reserve 2 cups of broth for the gravy.

Pro tip: Press gently on solids to extract more liquid.

4

Make the roux

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, cooking and stirring for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Pro tip: Keep stirring to prevent burning.

5

Add broth

Gradually whisk in the strained giblet broth, ensuring no lumps form.

Pro tip: Add broth slowly for a smoother consistency.

6

Simmer the gravy

Add dried thyme, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally.

7

Season and serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot.

Pro tip: For extra flavour, add a splash of turkey drippings.

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Tips & Tricks

  • Simmer giblets with aromatic vegetables for a deeper flavour.
  • Use a fine-mesh strainer to achieve a smooth gravy texture.
  • Adjust salt and pepper to taste after simmering for perfect seasoning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are giblets?

Giblets are the edible offal of a fowl, typically including the heart, liver, gizzard, and neck.

How long does it take to make giblet gravy?

It takes approximately 75 minutes to make giblet gravy from start to finish.

Can you make giblet gravy ahead of time?

Yes, giblet gravy can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

How do you thicken giblet gravy?

Giblet gravy is thickened by making a roux with butter and flour, then adding the giblet broth.

What can I use instead of turkey giblets?

If you don't have giblets, you can use chicken giblets or simply make a vegetable broth as a substitute.

What is the calorie content of giblet gravy?

A single serving of giblet gravy contains approximately 85 calories.

How should I store leftover giblet gravy?

Store leftover giblet gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this giblet gravy warm, drizzled over slices of turkey, mashed potatoes, or buttery stuffing. It's also excellent with roasted vegetables. Prepare it a day ahead and store in the refrigerator; reheat gently before serving. This gravy keeps well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for leftovers.

Nutrition per serving

85

Calories

3g

Protein

6g

Fat

6g

Carbs