Food
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How can I Make Gravy?

Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel

There are a number of ways to make gravy. While it is possible be make gravy from the drippings of vegetables, meat-based versions are more common. If you are looking for a very simple method, you might want to consider purchasing a ready-made version. This type is available in canned form, or in condensed cubes or granules that can be reconstituted by adding liquid. If, however, you plan to make gravy using real pan drippings from a roast turkey, the recipe below will yield a delicious sauce.

For this recipe, you will need the following items:

  • 5 cups (1.2 liters) of turkey stock, including the drippings from the pan
  • 1.3 cups (0.3 liters) of condensed cream of chicken soup
     Note: 1.3 cups or 0.3 liters is very close to the amount of condensed cream of chicken soup in one can.
  • 1 cup of milk
  • 1 teaspoon of poultry seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1/3 cup of flour
  • Salt to taste
Garlic powder can be a healthy ingredient in gravy.
Garlic powder can be a healthy ingredient in gravy.

Once your turkey has produced the requisite drippings, bring them to a boil in a large saucepan along with the additional turkey stock. Once you have the liquid at a rolling boil, stir in the soup followed by the poultry seasoning, pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Some chefs find that a few dashes of onion powder add nice flavor. You may have to experiment a few times before getting your gravy recipe exactly as you want it. If you like onion flavor, consider adding a bit of powder to the gravy at this stage.

A whisk may be helpful in making gravy.
A whisk may be helpful in making gravy.

After you have added the condensed soup and spices, reduce the heat under your saucepan to a low simmer. While the liquid is simmering, warm up the milk either in your microwave or on your stove top. Once it has been warmed, whisk in the flour until no lumps remain in the mixture. Then bring the gravy back to a boil before slowly adding the mixture of milk and flour. Allow it to boil for just about one minute, or until it has thickened. Be sure not to scorch it at this stage. Then transfer the gravy to your serving crock and serve it hot along with your turkey. Bon Appetit!

Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel

In addition to her work as a freelance writer for WiseGEEK, Diane is the executive editor of Black Lawrence Press, an independent publishing company based in upstate New York. She has also edited several anthologies, the e-newsletter Sapling, and The Adirondack Review. Diane has a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College and an M.A. from Brooklyn College.

Learn more...
Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel

In addition to her work as a freelance writer for WiseGEEK, Diane is the executive editor of Black Lawrence Press, an independent publishing company based in upstate New York. She has also edited several anthologies, the e-newsletter Sapling, and The Adirondack Review. Diane has a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College and an M.A. from Brooklyn College.

Learn more...

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Garlic powder can be a healthy ingredient in gravy.
      By: Comugnero Silvana
      Garlic powder can be a healthy ingredient in gravy.
    • A whisk may be helpful in making gravy.
      By: Seite23
      A whisk may be helpful in making gravy.
    • Once made, gravy may be served in a gravy-boat for easy pouring.
      By: angorius
      Once made, gravy may be served in a gravy-boat for easy pouring.
    • Turkey gravy is made from the pan drippings from a roast turkey.
      By: Stephanie Frey
      Turkey gravy is made from the pan drippings from a roast turkey.