Roast Turkey with Cream Gravy

Roast Turkey with Cream Gravy Recipe - From USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 4 hours | Servings: 8

Introduction

Roast Turkey with Cream Gravy is a classic dish that is perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions. The combination of tender, juicy turkey with rich and creamy gravy is sure to impress your guests. In this recipe, we will show you how to make the perfect roast turkey and creamy gravy that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

History

Roast turkey has been a popular dish for centuries, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. The tradition of roasting a whole turkey can be traced back to the early settlers in America, who adopted the practice from Native American tribes. The addition of cream gravy to the dish adds a rich and indulgent touch that elevates the flavors of the turkey.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Remove the giblets from the cavity of the turkey and set aside the liver for another use.
Drain off the fat from the roasting pan and keep it for later.
Place the roasting pan over a medium flame.
Heat it to reduce moisture and cook the fond until it turns light to medium brown.
Deglaze the pan with 4 cups of chicken stock, then remove it from the heat.
Combine the deglazed drippings with the giblet broth in a saucepan over a medium flame.
Bring it to a boil and degrease it well.
Add the remaining stock and milk, and mix everything well.
Heat 1.5 cups of reserved fat in a skillet over a medium flame, then whisk in the flour to make a blonde roux.
Beat the roux into the gravy mixture.
Heat and stir until it thickens.
Strain the gravy through a chinois.
Season it to taste with salt and pepper.
Finish the gravy by mixing in heated cream.
Carve the turkey into thin slices.
Serve it hot, with 2 oz (57 g) of gravy.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the gravy for extra flavor.
You can also substitute the cream in the gravy with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the turkey generously with kosher salt and pepper before roasting to enhance the flavor.

- Basting the turkey with vegetable oil throughout the cooking process will help keep the meat moist and tender.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the turkey is cooked to the proper internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

- Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat juicy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the roast turkey with cream gravy alongside mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for a traditional holiday meal.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the turkey at a high temperature initially and then lowering the heat will help ensure a crispy skin and juicy meat.

- Making a roux with the reserved turkey fat and flour will thicken the gravy and add a rich flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use butter or olive oil instead of vegetable oil for basting the turkey.

- If you don't have bread flour, all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the gravy ahead of time and reheat it before serving. The turkey can also be roasted a day in advance and reheated in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the roast turkey with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color and added flavor. - Serve the gravy in a separate gravy boat for easy pouring at the table.

Pairing Recommendations

This roast turkey with cream gravy pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables, green beans, or a fresh salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover turkey and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350 per serving

Carbohydrates

12g per serving

Fats

- Total Fat: 18g per serving

- Saturated Fat: 6g per serving

Proteins

- Protein: 32g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 6% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (cream)

Summary

This roast turkey with cream gravy is a rich and indulgent dish that is high in protein and fats. It is a great source of iron and vitamin A, but it is important to note that it contains dairy for those with allergies.

Summary

Roast Turkey with Cream Gravy is a classic dish that is perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to making the perfect roast turkey and creamy gravy that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With a rich and indulgent flavor profile, this dish is sure to impress your guests and become a new family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, and I spent countless hours in her kitchen watching her prepare delicious meals with ease and grace.

One day, as Thanksgiving approached, my grandmother decided it was time for me to learn how to make the perfect roast turkey with cream gravy. She had learned the recipe from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. It was a family tradition that had been passed down through the generations, and my grandmother was determined to teach me the secrets of this beloved dish.

We started by selecting the best turkey we could find at the local market. My grandmother taught me how to properly season and prepare the bird, explaining that the key to a delicious roast turkey is in the preparation. We rubbed the turkey with a mixture of herbs and spices, and then left it to marinate overnight in the refrigerator.

The next day, we woke up early to begin the cooking process. My grandmother showed me how to stuff the turkey with a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, onions, and herbs, and then truss it up with kitchen twine to ensure even cooking. As we placed the turkey in the oven, my grandmother explained the importance of basting it regularly to keep it moist and flavorful.

As the turkey roasted, my grandmother began to prepare the cream gravy. She showed me how to make a roux with butter and flour, and then slowly whisk in milk until the gravy was thick and creamy. She seasoned it with salt and pepper, and then let it simmer on the stove until it was ready to serve.

When the turkey was finally done, we pulled it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before carving it. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of our labor.

As we sat down to eat, my grandmother served up generous portions of roast turkey with cream gravy. The meat was tender and juicy, with a perfect golden brown crust. The gravy was rich and velvety, coating the turkey in a blanket of savory goodness.

As I took my first bite, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come. The flavors were comforting and familiar, reminding me of holidays spent with loved ones and the simple joys of a homemade meal.

Since that day, I have made roast turkey with cream gravy countless times, always following my grandmother's recipe to the letter. Every time I serve it to my own family and friends, I am reminded of the special bond I shared with my grandmother and the love and care she poured into every dish she made.

As I look back on that day in my grandmother's kitchen, I am grateful for the lessons she taught me and the memories we created together. The recipe for roast turkey with cream gravy will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the importance of family, tradition, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with the ones we love.