How to Make Giblet Gravy: A Step-by-Step Guide to Impress Your Guests

Giblet gravy, a rich and flavorful sauce made from turkey or chicken giblets, is a staple for holiday meals, especially Thanksgiving. It’s the perfect complement to roasted meats, mashed potatoes, and stuffing, adding a savory depth that elevates any dish.

While the thought of making gravy from scratch might seem daunting, this guide will walk you through every step, ensuring a smooth and delicious outcome. I’ll share my family’s tried-and-true recipe, along with insider tips and tricks to make your giblet gravy the star of the show.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before we begin, let’s gather everything we need. Having all the ingredients prepped and ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Giblet Gravy Essentials:

• 1 set of turkey or chicken giblets (neck, heart, gizzard, and liver)
• 8 cups of turkey or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

Optional Flavor Enhancers:

• 1/4 cup dry sherry or white wine
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Let’s Get Cooking!

Now that we have everything we need, let’s start making this delicious giblet gravy.

Step 1: Preparing the Giblets

1. Rinse the giblets thoroughly under cold water.
2. Place the giblets in a large pot and cover them with the broth.
3. Add the chopped onion, thyme, and bay leaf (if using).
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the giblets are tender.

Step 2: Creating the Gravy Base

1. While the giblets are simmering, melt the butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat.
2. Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the gravy.
3. Slowly whisk in about 2 cups of the warm giblet broth into the roux, making sure there are no lumps.

Step 3: Blending the Flavors

1. Remove the giblets from the broth and set them aside to cool slightly.
2. Pour the remaining giblet broth through a fine-mesh sieve over the roux mixture, discarding the solids.
3. Bring the gravy to a simmer, stirring frequently, and cook until thickened to your liking, about 5-10 minutes.
4. While the gravy simmers, finely chop the giblets. You can add as much or as little as you like to the gravy.

Step 4: The Finishing Touches

1. Stir in the chopped giblets, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
2. For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of dry sherry or white wine.

Tips for Gravy Perfection

Here are some tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years to ensure your giblet gravy turns out perfect every time:

• For a smoother gravy, use a potato masher to break down some of the giblets before adding them back into the sauce.
• If your gravy is too thick, thin it out with a little extra broth or water.
• If your gravy is too thin, create a slurry by whisking together a tablespoon of cold butter and a tablespoon of flour. Slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering gravy until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat, or a tablespoon of heavy cream for extra richness.

Serving and Storing Your Giblet Gravy

Serve your giblet gravy warm alongside your favorite holiday dishes. It’s particularly delicious with roasted turkey or chicken, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green bean casserole.

To store leftover gravy, let it cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Giblet Gravy Ingredients

FAQs about Making Giblet Gravy

Can I make giblet gravy ahead of time?

Absolutely! Giblet gravy can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

What can I substitute for giblets?

If you’re not a fan of giblets, you can omit them and make a traditional turkey or chicken gravy. Simply use all 8 cups of broth for the recipe and add 1 teaspoon of poultry seasoning for extra flavor. You can also substitute the giblets with chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

Can I use store-bought broth?

Yes, you can use store-bought broth, but I highly recommend using homemade broth if possible for the best flavor.

Giblet Gravy Simmering

Make It Your Own

Making giblet gravy is all about creating a delicious and flavorful sauce that complements your meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, and flavorings to create a recipe that’s uniquely yours.

For more delicious sauce and gravy recipes, check out our guide on How to Make Turkey Gravy, and be sure to explore the other culinary adventures on Family Cuisine!