Why We Recommend Turkey Gravies
How to Choose the Best Turkey Gravy
When it comes to Thanksgiving dinner, the gravy is just as important as the turkey. The right gravy can make or break the meal. With so many options on the market, it can be daunting to pick the best one. Here’s what to look for when shopping for the perfect turkey gravy.
Start with the Turkey
The first step in choosing a gravy is to decide what type of turkey you will be serving. Different types of gravy pair better with different types of turkey. For example, a white wine-based gravy is a great complement to a roasted turkey, while a traditional turkey gravy is a better match for a fried or smoked turkey.
Consider Your Audience
The next step is to consider your guests’ tastes. If you’re serving a crowd of picky eaters, it’s best to stick with a traditional turkey gravy. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of more creative gravies to choose from. For example, a cranberry-infused gravy is a great way to add a unique twist to your holiday meal.
Read the Ingredients
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of options, it’s important to read the labels carefully. Many store-bought gravies contain additives and preservatives that can detract from the flavor of your meal. Additionally, some brands contain artificial flavors or high levels of sodium. If you’re looking for a healthier option, opt for a gravy that is free of additives and preservatives.
Look for Quality
Another important factor to consider is the quality of the ingredients. If you’re looking for a more flavorful gravy, opt for one made with fresh ingredients. Additionally, some brands use high-quality stocks and herbs to give their gravies an added depth of flavor.
Taste Test
Finally, the best way to determine which gravy is right for you is to give it a taste test. Most grocery stores offer samples of their gravies, so take advantage of this opportunity. It’s also a good idea to try a few different varieties to find the one that best suits your taste.
Choosing the right gravy for your Thanksgiving meal can be tricky, but with a little bit of research and a few taste tests, you’ll be sure to find the perfect one. Remember to consider the type of turkey you’ll be serving, your guests’ tastes, the ingredients, and the quality of the gravy before making your final decision. With the right gravy, your Thanksgiving meal will be one to remember.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What can I add to turkey gravy to make it taste better?
To enhance the flavor of turkey gravy, you can add umami-rich condiments like soy sauce, miso paste, Worcestershire sauce, or even a splash of sherry or cider vinegar. These additions can give your gravy a more complex and delicious taste.
2. What is the secret to good gravy?
The secret to good gravy includes removing excess fat, heating the liquid mixture, and thickening the gravy. It is recommended to use a whisk to mix in the flour mixture and strain the gravy if it becomes lumpy. These tips will help you achieve a smooth and flavorful gravy.
3. Is stock or broth better for turkey gravy?
For the best turkey gravy, it is recommended to use good stock. Making your own rich turkey stock a few days before the feast is ideal, but if you're in a pinch, you can use store-bought low-salt chicken broth. However, the results with homemade stock are incomparable.
4. What is the best thickener for turkey gravy?
If your gravy is thin, you can thicken it quickly with flour or cornstarch. To avoid lumps, stir in three or four tablespoons of flour or cornstarch into a small amount of cold water until you have a smooth paste. This can be added to the gravy for thickening.
5. How to spice up bland turkey gravy?
To add flavor to bland turkey gravy, you can try incorporating ingredients like bacon fat, gochujang, whole sprigs of herbs, grainy mustard, balsamic vinegar, heavy cream, wine, or caramelized onions. These additions can enhance the taste and make your gravy more delicious.
6. Is gravy better with flour or cornstarch?
Using flour to make gravy is preferred as it adds more flavor and creates a roux when browned. Flour-based gravy also holds up better and reheats better later. However, if you have guests who are eating gluten-free, you can use cornstarch as an alternative thickener.
7. What is the best ingredient to thicken gravy?
To thicken gravy, you can use either flour or cornstarch. However, it is important to avoid adding the thickener directly to the gravy, as it can create lumps. Instead, mix three or four tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with a small amount of cold water to create a smooth paste, then stir it into the gravy for thickening.
Editor's Notes
During our turkey gravy research, we found 24 turkey gravy products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 8,800 customer reviews through our big data system to write the turkey gravies list. We found that most customers choose turkey gravies with an average price of $17.64.
The turkey gravies are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of turkey gravies, including McCormick, Trader Joe's, Campbell's, Better Than Gravy, Knorr. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!
