Extra Gravy for the Holidays: Turkey Wing Gravy

My Thanksgiving Gravy: A Labor of Love (and Deliciousness)

Thanksgiving. The word itself conjures up images of family gathered around a table laden with food, the aroma of roasting turkey filling the air, and the comforting warmth of shared laughter and memories. But for me, Thanksgiving isn't complete without one specific element: the gravy. Not just any gravy, mind you, but a rich, deeply flavorful turkey wing gravy that's become a family tradition, passed down (with a few of my own tweaks) through generations.

This year, I decided to document my process, not just for my own posterity, but to share with anyone who appreciates the simple joy of a perfectly crafted gravy. It's more than just a sauce; it's the glue that holds the Thanksgiving meal together, the element that transforms a collection of dishes into a cohesive, satisfying experience. This gravy isn't just about the taste; it's about the time and effort put into its creation, a testament to the care and love we put into our Thanksgiving feast.

The secret to truly exceptional gravy lies in the details. Starting with turkey wings provides a depth of flavor unmatched by other methods. The long, slow simmering allows the flavors of the broth, vegetables and herbs to meld together beautifully, creating a symphony of taste sensations. I've always been a believer in using fresh, high-quality ingredients – herbs freshly picked from my garden (when possible!), the finest chicken broth I can find, and butter that's rich and creamy. The subtle sweetness from the carrots and celery cuts through the richness of the turkey and butter, creating a balanced and harmonious flavor profile. It’s a process that takes a little patience, but the end result is worth every minute.

Some may find the process involved a bit daunting, but believe me, it’s far easier than it seems. Each step has its purpose, each ingredient plays its role in the grand tapestry of flavor. And the best part? You get to enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen while you work, building anticipation for the feast to come. The entire house smells like Thanksgiving, a true sensory feast in itself!

Beyond the technical aspects, making this gravy is about more than just following a recipe; it's about the memories associated with it. It's about the quiet moments spent in the kitchen, the comforting rhythm of chopping vegetables, the satisfying sounds of simmering broth. It’s a mindful process, a chance to slow down and appreciate the simple things, to connect with the traditions and heritage that make Thanksgiving so special. This isn't just a recipe; it's a ritual, a cherished part of our holiday celebration.

So, gather your ingredients, put on some festive music, and allow yourself to be transported to a warm, cozy kitchen filled with the promise of a delicious and memorable Thanksgiving. And remember, the perfect gravy isn’t just about perfection; it’s about the love you pour into it.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Step-by-step

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium high heat.
• Add wings and onions and cook, flipping wings and stirring onions occasionally, until golden brown, about 10 minutes.
• Add garlic, thyme and rosemary sprigs.
• Add 1 ½ cups or 350ml stock to skillet and stir, scraping up any brown bits on the bottom of the pan.
• Transfer to a small stock pot.
• Stir in remaining broth, carrot, celery and bay leaf.
• Bring to a boil.
• Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 1 hour, skimming occasionally.
• While broth is simmering, puree roasted onions and about ½ cup or 125ml pan juices from turkey (after roasting your turkey) in blender or food processor.
• Transfer to a large saucepan.
• Remove and discard wings.
• Strain broth through a large strainer into saucepan with onions.
• Press on vegetables in strainer to extract any remaining liquid; discard strained vegetables.
• Bring strained broth and onions to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
• Stir in the butter and season with salt and pepper.