Camilla – Page 30 – Family Feast

Last year you served turkey with a silky pan gravy made from drippings and fresh thyme, and every guest asked for seconds. You’ll learn nine classic and four creative gravies, each with simple steps and clear ratios for thickening, seasoning, and adjusting texture. Follow straightforward tips for skimming fat, using pan juices, and making vegan or sweet variations, so your gravy matches every main dish and side. Classic Turkey Pan Gravy With Pan Drippings Rich, silky turkey gravy made from the pan drippings — the perfect finishing touch for your holiday bird. Ingredients: 1/4 cup pan drippings strained from roasted turkey (fat + juices) 1/4 cup unsalted butter (if drippings are low on fat) 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 2 to 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey stock, warmed 1/4 cup dry white wine or extra stock (optional) 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional) Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste How to Make: After roasting, pour pan drippings through a fine mesh strainer into a heatproof bowl; let sit a few minutes so fat rises to the top. Skim and measure out 1/4 cup of the fat; add butter if you need more to reach 1/4 cup. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the fat (and butter) until shimmering. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to cook the raw flour taste and form a roux; it should be a light golden color. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of warm stock, then add the wine or extra stock if using, whisking to a smooth consistency. Continue adding the remaining stock in a steady stream while whisking to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer; let cook 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to your liking. Stir in thyme and Worcestershire sauce; taste and season with salt and plenty of black pepper. If too thick, whisk in a little more warm stock; if too thin, simmer a minute longer. Strain the gravy once more for an extra-smooth finish, if desired, and keep warm until serving. Pour generously over turkey and sides — comfort in every spoonful! Silky Giblet Gravy With Fresh Herbs A glossy, herb-scented giblet gravy that’s silky, savory, and perfect for spooning over roast turkey. Ingredients: Giblets from one turkey (neck, heart, gizzard, liver — reserve liver separately) 6 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey stock (homemade or store-bought) 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1 small onion, quartered 1 carrot, roughly chopped 1 celery stalk, roughly chopped 2 bay leaves 4 sprigs fresh thyme 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1/4 cup dry white wine or dry sherry (optional) Drippings from the roast turkey (about 1/4 to 1/2 cup), optional 1 teaspoon lemon juice or a splash of vinegar (optional, to brighten) How to Make: Rinse giblets (except liver) and place them with onion, carrot, celery, bay leaves, and 5 cups stock in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer. Simmer gently, uncovered, for 45 minutes to 1 hour until giblets are tender and stock is flavorful. Skim foam as needed. Remove giblets and strain the broth into a bowl; reserve broth. Finely chop the cooled giblets (exclude liver or add a little if you like stronger flavor). In a clean saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly to make a smooth roux, cooking 2–3 minutes until it smells toasty but not brown. Slowly whisk in 2–3 cups of the reserved broth (and drippings if using) until smooth, then add wine or sherry if using. Bring to a gentle simmer to thicken. Stir in the chopped giblets, chopped parsley, thyme leaves, and sage. Add lemon juice or vinegar if using to brighten flavors. Taste and season with salt and plenty of black pepper. If too thick, whisk in more stock to reach a silky consistency. Keep warm until serving, giving a final whisk and sprinkle of fresh parsley just before ladling over your bird. Enjoy this silky, herb-forward giblet gravy — it’s the perfect finishing touch for your holiday plate. Red Wine and Shallot Prime Rib Gravy A rich, savory gravy with red wine and shallots that makes prime rib sing. Ingredients: 2 tbsp unsalted butter 1 tbsp olive oil 3 shallots, finely minced (about 1/2 cup) 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup dry red wine (cabernet, merlot, or similar) 2 cups beef stock (preferably low-sodium) 1 tbsp tomato paste 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme) 2 tbsp pan drippings from prime rib (optional, but recommended) 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (or 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water for a gluten-free option) Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1 tbsp cold unsalted butter (optional, for finishing) Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional) How to Make: After roasting your prime rib, reserve 2 tablespoons of pan drippings; skim off excess fat if very greasy. In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter with 1 tbsp olive oil. Add the minced shallots and cook 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the shallots and garlic, stir constantly for 1 minute to form a roux and remove the raw flour taste. Pour in the red wine, scraping the pan to loosen any browned bits; simmer 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the beef stock, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and reserved pan drippings. Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer and cook 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. Taste and season with salt and plenty of freshly ground black pepper. For a glossy finish, whisk in 1 tablespoon cold butter off the heat, then strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve if you prefer a smooth sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot alongside your prime rib. Enjoy pouring this velvety, wine-kissed gravy over every slice — it’s the perfect finishing touch. Madeira and Mushroom Gravy A rich, velvety Madeira and mushroom gravy that dresses up roast meats and holiday plates with deep, savory warmth. Ingredients: 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 small shallot, finely chopped (or 1/4 cup onion) 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried) 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 cup beef or turkey stock (low-sodium preferred) 1/2 cup Madeira wine 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1 tablespoon heavy cream or sour cream (optional, for silkier finish) 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) How to Make: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat until foamy. Add the shallot and cook 1–2 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and thyme; cook 5–7 minutes until mushrooms are browned and any liquid has evaporated. Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir 1 minute to cook the flour and form a roux. Slowly pour in the stock while stirring to avoid lumps, then add the Madeira wine and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 4–6 minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Taste and season with salt and pepper; stir in the cream if using for a richer texture. Strain if you want a smooth gravy, or leave it chunky for more mushroom goodness. Stir in parsley before serving if desired. Serve this luscious Madeira and mushroom gravy over roast meats, mashed potatoes, or stuffing for an extra-special holiday touch! Chestnut and Cognac Holiday Gravy Chestnut and Cognac Holiday Gravy — rich, nutty, and just boozy enough to make the holidays feel extra special. Ingredients: 1 cup cooked, peeled chestnuts (store-bought jar or roasted and skinned) 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 small shallot, finely chopped 1 garlic clove, minced 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey stock (or vegetable stock) 1/2 cup heavy cream 2 tablespoons cognac (plus extra for flaming, optional) 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried) 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed) Optional: pinch of nutmeg or a splash of balsamic for depth How to Make: If chestnuts are pre-cooked, roughly chop them; if whole raw or roasted, chop small so they’ll blend smoothly. Heat butter (or butter + olive oil) in a medium skillet over medium heat until melted and shimmering. Add the chopped shallot and sauté 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the shallots and garlic, stirring constantly for 1 minute to make a roux. Slowly whisk in the stock a little at a time so the mixture stays smooth and begins to thicken. Add the chopped chestnuts, thyme, and Dijon mustard; simmer gently 6–8 minutes to meld flavors. Transfer the mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender; puree until smooth (for a chunkier gravy, pulse less). Return the gravy to the pan, stir in the cream and cognac, and warm through without boiling; taste and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg or dash of balsamic if using. If you like a silky finish, strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve into a serving jug, pressing to extract flavor. Optionally, warm a tablespoon of cognac in a small spoon, ignite briefly, then pour into the gravy for a dramatic flamed finish — let the flame die before serving. Serve hot over roast poultry, mashed potatoes, or stuffing. Enjoy — this chestnut and cognac gravy will bring cozy, boozy comfort to your holiday table! Apple Cider and Sage Gravy Warm, aromatic apple cider and fresh sage come together in a silky gravy that’s perfect for turkey or mashed potatoes. Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 small shallot, finely minced (or 1/4 cup onion) 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 cup apple cider (preferably unsweetened) 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey stock 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage) 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional) 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth) 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste) 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (to brighten) 1 tablespoon cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces (for finishing) How to Make: Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and cook, stirring, until softened and translucent, about 2–3 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the shallot and stir constantly to form a roux, cooking 1–2 minutes until it smells nutty but not browned. Slowly whisk in the apple cider, adding a little at a time to avoid lumps. Whisk in the chicken or turkey stock until smooth. Add the chopped sage, thyme (if using), and Dijon mustard; bring to a gentle simmer. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 6–8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Remove from heat and whisk in the cold butter pieces until the gravy is glossy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning; strain if you want an extra-silky texture. Pour this apple cider and sage gravy over your holiday roast or mashed potatoes and enjoy the cozy, savory-sweet goodness! Port-Infused Cranberry Gravy Port-Infused Cranberry Gravy — bright, boozy, and perfect for dressing up roast turkey. Ingredients: 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste) 1/2 cup ruby port wine 1 cup low-sodium chicken or turkey stock 1 small shallot, minced (or 1/4 cup finely chopped onion) 1 tbsp unsalted butter 1 tsp fresh orange zest (optional) 1 tbsp orange juice (fresh) 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or cranberry vinegar (optional, for depth) 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water (slurry), or 1 tbsp all-purpose flour mixed with 2 tbsp water Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish) How to Make: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat and add the minced shallot; sauté 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant. Add the cranberries, sugar, and orange zest and stir to combine. Pour in the port and stock, then add the orange juice and balsamic if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer 10–12 minutes until cranberries have burst and mixture is saucy. If you prefer a smooth gravy, use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and puree until smooth; return to the pan. Whisk in the cornstarch slurry (or flour mixture) and simmer 1–2 minutes until the gravy thickens; add more slurry a little at a time if needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste and simmer another minute to meld flavors. Remove from heat and stir in a splash more port if you like a pronounced boozy note. Spoon into a gravy boat or bowl and garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Serve this glossy, tangy gravy over roast turkey or mashed potatoes and watch it disappear. Vegetarian Mushroom and Thyme Gravy Earthy mushroom and fragrant thyme make this vegetarian gravy a cozy, savory topper for any holiday plate. Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil or butter 1 lb (450 g) cremini or button mushrooms, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme) 2 tbsp all-purpose flour 2 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred) 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for depth) 1 tsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for brightness) Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1–2 tbsp heavy cream, milk, or unsweetened plant milk (optional, for silkiness) Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional) How to Make: Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and thyme and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their liquid and it evaporates, about 8–10 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir to coat; cook 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Add the soy sauce (and balsamic vinegar if using) and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook until thickened to your liking, about 5 minutes; if it gets too thick, add a splash more broth. For a smoother texture, mash some mushrooms in the pan with the back of a spoon or pulse briefly in a blender—leave some chunks for texture if you like. Stir in cream or plant milk if using, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving. Serve this warm over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or your favorite holiday mains for an irresistible savory finish. Roasted Garlic and White Wine Gravy A silky, savory gravy brightened with white wine and mellow roasted garlic — perfect for holiday roast nights. Ingredients: 1 whole head garlic 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 small shallot, finely chopped 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 cup dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) 2 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey stock 1 teaspoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth) 1/4 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional, for extra silkiness) Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional) How to Make: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the garlic head to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil and roast 30–40 minutes until soft and caramelized. Let cool, then squeeze out the roasted garlic cloves and mash into a paste. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and cook 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the flour and cook 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it smells slightly toasty — this forms a roux. Slowly pour in the white wine while whisking to deglaze the pan and smooth out any lumps. Let the wine reduce by about half, 2–3 minutes. Gradually whisk in the stock until fully combined and smooth. Add the mashed roasted garlic, thyme, and soy or Worcestershire sauce if using. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to your liking. Taste and season with salt and pepper. If you want a richer finish, stir in the heavy cream and warm through for 1 minute. For an ultra-smooth texture, strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve into a serving vessel. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot over roast turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing. Enjoy that warm, garlicky pour — crowd-pleasing comfort in every spoonful! Brown Butter and Rosemary Gravy Brown Butter and Rosemary Gravy — nutty, aromatic, and perfect for drizzling over roast turkey or mashed potatoes. Ingredients: 6 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 small shallot, finely minced (about 2 tablespoons) 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey stock (warm) 1/4 cup dry white wine or dry Marsala (optional; can substitute extra stock) 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce (for depth) Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, brightens flavor) How to Make: Melt butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Swirl occasionally and watch closely. Continue cooking until the butter foams and the solids turn golden-brown and smell nutty — about 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat immediately to avoid burning. Add the minced shallot and chopped rosemary to the brown butter and return to low heat. Sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant and the shallot softens. Sprinkle the flour over the butter-shallot mixture and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to cook the raw flour taste and form a roux. Gradually whisk in the warm stock (and wine if using), stirring to smooth out any lumps. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, whisking, until it thickens to gravy consistency — about 3–5 minutes. Stir in Dijon mustard, soy/Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice if using. Taste and season with salt and pepper. If the gravy is too thick, whisk in a splash more stock until you reach the desired consistency. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a serving boat if you prefer a silky smooth gravy, pressing on solids to extract flavor. Serve warm over roast meats, mashed potatoes, or stuffing and enjoy the rich, toasty aroma. A little brown butter and rosemary goes a long way — drizzle and relish every savory drop! Creamy Horseradish and Beef Jus Creamy Horseradish and Beef Jus — a silky, tangy gravy that brightens rich roast beef with a peppery horseradish kick. Ingredients: 2 cups beef jus or concentrated beef stock 1/2 cup heavy cream 2 tbsp prepared horseradish (adjust to taste) 1 tbsp unsalted butter 1 small shallot, finely minced 1 tsp Dijon mustard 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1 tsp fresh lemon juice (optional, to brighten) 1 tsp chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional) How to Make: Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and cook until soft and translucent, about 2–3 minutes. Pour in the beef jus and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Reduce heat to low and whisk in the heavy cream until smooth and slightly thickened, about 2–4 minutes. Mix in the prepared horseradish a little at a time, tasting until you reach your desired heat level. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice if using; simmer 1 minute more to meld flavors. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve for an extra-smooth finish (optional). Keep warm until ready to serve and sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley just before pouring over roast beef. Serve this creamy horseradish jus over sliced roast beef for a luxurious, tangy finish that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds! Maple-Bourbon Sweet Potato Gravy Maple-Bourbon Sweet Potato Gravy — a cozy, sweet-and-smoky pour that turns mashed potatoes and turkey into something unforgettable. Ingredients: 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (smooth, not chunky) 1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half) 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup 1 tablespoon bourbon 1 small shallot, finely minced (or 1/4 small yellow onion) 1 clove garlic, minced 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/4 tsp dried) 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon Pinch of smoked paprika (optional, for smoky depth) Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste How to Make: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and cook 2–3 minutes, until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in the mashed sweet potatoes until fully combined and smooth. Add the cream, maple syrup, Dijon, thyme, cinnamon, and smoked paprika; whisk to blend. Stir in the bourbon and simmer gently 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Taste and season with salt and pepper; adjust maple or bourbon if you want it sweeter or brighter. If gravy is too thick, thin with a splash more stock or cream; if too thin, simmer a minute longer. Serve warm over potatoes, turkey, or roasted veg. Finish with a drizzle and a smile — this gravy brings holiday comfort with a boozy, sweet twist. Vegan Cashew and Herb Gravy Creamy, savory cashew and herb gravy — rich, nutty, and perfect for pouring over mashed potatoes or roasted veggies. Ingredients: 1 cup raw cashews, soaked 2 hours or quick-soaked in hot water 20 minutes 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegan butter 1 small onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour) 2 cups vegetable broth 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional) 1 teaspoon dried sage 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed Salt and black pepper to taste 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar) for brightness Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional) How to Make: Drain the soaked cashews and place them in a blender with 1/2 cup of the vegetable broth; blend until very smooth and creamy. Set aside. Heat the oil or vegan butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook 5–7 minutes, stirring, until softened and lightly golden. Stir in the garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic and stir constantly 1–2 minutes to form a roux and remove raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the remaining 1.5 cups vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in the blended cashew cream, soy sauce, Dijon (if using), sage, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to your liking. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to balance the flavors. If you prefer a perfectly smooth texture, blitz the gravy briefly with an immersion blender or in a countertop blender. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. Pour it over your holiday favorites and enjoy a rich, comforting vegan gravy that everyone will ask for seconds of! Conclusion You’ve got recipes that cover classic, bold, and surprising gravy options, and you can mix and match them to suit your menu. Test one idea on a small batch, then scale up if it works—that’ll prove the theory that variety lifts a meal. Taste, adjust seasoning, and keep texture smooth. Make one gravy for the whole table or two to match different dishes. Finish warm, serve right away, and enjoy the results.