Thanksgiving 'Gravy'

Introduction

History

The origins of gravy can be traced back to medieval Europe, where cooks would use the drippings from roasted meats to create a sauce to accompany their meals. Over time, the recipe evolved to include a variety of ingredients such as herbs, spices, and thickening agents, resulting in the delicious gravy we enjoy today.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Notes

1. Note: poultry seasoning does not contain animal products.
2. If you don't have poultry seasoning, use 2 to 3 tsp of a mixture of rosemary, sage, thyme, marjoram and basil.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of your gravy, consider adding fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary.

- For a richer and creamier texture, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or butter at the end of cooking.

- If your gravy is too thin, you can thicken it by adding a cornstarch or arrowroot slurry, as outlined in the recipe below.

Serving Suggestions

Serve gravy alongside roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, or vegetables for a classic Thanksgiving meal. You can also drizzle gravy over biscuits, meatloaf, or poutine for a tasty twist on traditional dishes.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the gravy over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Use a whisk to ensure the thickener is fully incorporated and prevent lumps from forming.

- Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or beef stock in place of vegetable stock for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.

- Swap out the miso for tahini or nutritional yeast for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Gravy can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or stock to thin out the consistency if needed.

Presentation Ideas

Serve gravy in a gravy boat or small pitcher for easy pouring at the table. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of black pepper for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair gravy with roasted meats such as turkey, chicken, or beef, as well as side dishes like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green beans. For a vegetarian option, serve gravy over roasted vegetables or lentil loaf.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Add a splash of water or stock to thin out the consistency if needed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

The calorie content of gravy can vary depending on the ingredients and portion size. On average, a serving of gravy contains around 50-100 calories, with most of the calories coming from fats and proteins.

Carbohydrates

Gravy typically contains minimal carbohydrates, with most of the calories coming from fats and proteins. However, the addition of thickening agents such as cornstarch or arrowroot can increase the carbohydrate content slightly.

Fats

The fats in gravy come from the stock used as a base, as well as any additional butter or cream added for richness. While fats are an essential component of a balanced diet, it's important to enjoy gravy in moderation due to its high calorie content.

Proteins

Proteins in gravy come from the stock used as a base, as well as any meat drippings that may be incorporated into the recipe. While gravy is not a significant source of protein, it can add flavor and moisture to protein-rich dishes such as turkey or roast beef.

Vitamins and minerals

Gravy can provide small amounts of vitamins and minerals depending on the ingredients used. For example, homemade stock may contain nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and collagen, while fresh herbs can add antioxidants and vitamins A and C.

Alergens

Gravy may contain allergens such as soy, wheat, or dairy depending on the ingredients used. It's important to check labels and inquire about potential allergens when serving gravy to guests with dietary restrictions.

Summary

Overall, gravy is a flavorful condiment that can add richness and moisture to a variety of dishes. While it may be high in calories and fats, enjoying gravy in moderation as part of a balanced diet can be a delicious addition to your Thanksgiving meal.

Summary

Gravy is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can elevate a variety of dishes, from roasted meats to mashed potatoes. With a few simple ingredients and cooking techniques, you can create a delicious homemade gravy to enjoy at your Thanksgiving table.

How did I get this recipe?

for Thanksgiving gravy. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, that I first watched my own grandmother prepare this essential component of our holiday feast.

I can still remember the smells wafting from the kitchen as she worked her magic, the rich aromas of turkey roasting in the oven mingling with the savory scent of onions and herbs simmering on the stove. It was a symphony of flavors that filled the house with warmth and anticipation.

My grandmother was a master in the kitchen, a culinary artist who could turn the simplest ingredients into a masterpiece. And Thanksgiving gravy was no exception. She had learned the recipe from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. It was a tradition passed down through the generations, a symbol of love and family that brought us all together each year.

As I watched my grandmother work, I was struck by her skill and expertise. She moved with a grace and confidence that only comes from years of practice and experience. She knew exactly how much flour to add to the pan, how long to cook it until it turned a golden brown, and just the right amount of stock to pour in to create that perfect consistency.

But it wasn't just her technique that impressed me. It was the way she infused each step of the process with love and care, as if she were pouring her heart and soul into the gravy itself. She would stir the pot with a wooden spoon that had been handed down through the generations, its handle worn smooth from years of use. And as she worked, she would hum a tune under her breath, a melody that seemed to come from deep within her soul.

I would often sit at the kitchen table, watching in awe as she worked her magic. I would ask questions about the recipe, about why she added this ingredient or that spice. And she would patiently explain, teaching me the secrets of her craft so that one day I too could carry on the tradition.

And so, over the years, I learned to make Thanksgiving gravy just like my grandmother. I learned to whisk the flour into the pan, to stir constantly until it turned a rich, golden brown. I learned to add the stock slowly, stirring all the while to prevent lumps from forming. And I learned to season it with just the right amount of salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting until it was perfect.

Now, as I prepare Thanksgiving dinner for my own family, I think back to those days in my grandmother's kitchen. I can still hear the clatter of pots and pans, the hum of her voice as she worked. And as I stir the gravy on the stove, I feel her presence beside me, guiding my hand and whispering words of encouragement.

For me, Thanksgiving gravy is more than just a recipe. It's a connection to my past, a link to the generations of women who came before me. It's a reminder of the love and care that went into each dish, and the joy that comes from sharing a meal with those you hold dear.

And so, as I sit down at the table with my family, I know that my grandmother's spirit is with us, her presence felt in every bite of food we take. And as we raise our glasses in a toast to the past and the future, I give thanks for the tradition that binds us together, and for the love that sustains us through all the years to come.

Categories

| American Recipes | Gravy Recipes | Vegan Holiday Recipes | White Miso Recipes |

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