I know I usually stick to my tried-and-true turkey gravy recipe, but this year I wanted to share something a little different, something fun for the holiday season. If you’re feeling a bit tired of the same old gravy and want to elevate your meal, this Red Wine Turkey Gravy is the perfect twist. Don’t worry—while this recipe uses red wine, all of the alcohol will cook out during the process, so it’s completely safe for the whole family to enjoy! This also goes great with our Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe.
Red wine turkey gravy doesn’t have a specific traditional origin tied to one particular country or region, but it draws inspiration from classic French cooking techniques. In French cuisine, the use of red wine in sauces—such as in red wine reduction sauces or bordelaise sauce—is common. These sauces are often served with meats like beef, lamb, or poultry to enhance the flavor and add richness.
Red Wine Turkey Gravy Recipe for the Holidays
Ingredients:
• 2 cups red wine
• 2 cups chicken or turkey broth
• 2 bay leaves
• A few sprigs of thyme
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Simmer the Base: In a medium saucepan, bring the red wine and chicken/turkey broth to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium.
2. Add Herbs: Add the bay leaves and thyme sprigs to the pot. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Thicken the Gravy: In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in a little water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk the cornstarch slurry into the simmering gravy.
4. Season and Cook: Season with salt and pepper, and continue to stir while the gravy thickens. Once it reaches your desired consistency, remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs.
5. Serve: Serve your Red Wine Turkey Gravy hot over your turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing!
This recipe adds a rich, bold flavor to your meal while keeping things festive. It’s a great way to switch things up and surprise your guests with something new.
FAQ:
What can I add to turkey gravy to make it taste better?
To add more depth to your turkey gravy, you can incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or sage, a splash of cream for richness, or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce for umami flavor. If you like a bit of tang, a spoonful of cranberry sauce can also add a unique touch.
What type of red wine is good for gravy?
A dry red wine works best for making gravy. Varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Pinot Noir add a nice depth of flavor without being too sweet. Just make sure it’s a wine you’d enjoy drinking—if it tastes good in your glass, it’ll taste great in your gravy!
Can I make this gravy ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this gravy up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving. If it thickens too much in the fridge, just add a little extra broth or water to thin it out.
Can I use a different type of broth?
Absolutely. While chicken or turkey broth is ideal for this recipe, you can use vegetable or beef broth if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly depending on the broth you choose.
This Red Wine Turkey Gravy is a fun, flavorful twist on the classic that’s sure to make your holiday table stand out. Enjoy!
Reader Question:
What’s your favorite way to switch up traditional holiday dishes? Have you ever tried making a unique gravy or other fun twist on a classic recipe? I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments below.
Recommended Tools and Ingredients for Red Wine Turkey Gravy
To make this Red Wine Turkey Gravy recipe even easier, here are some helpful kitchen tools and ingredients you can find on Target:
1. Instant-Read Thermometer
Ensure your turkey and gravy reach the perfect temperature with an accurate instant-read thermometer. It’s a must-have for any home cook.
2. Heavy-Duty Whisk
A sturdy whisk is essential for keeping your gravy smooth and lump-free while adding the cornstarch slurry.
This non-stick saucepan is ideal for simmering the broth and wine mixture without the risk of sticking or burning.
4. Fine Mesh Strainer
For an extra smooth gravy, a fine mesh strainer helps remove any herb stems or bay leaves easily.
5. Quality Red Wine
Opt for a dry red wine like this highly-rated Cabernet Sauvignon, perfect for cooking and sipping.
Including these items will make your holiday cooking smoother and more enjoyable!
Red Wine Turkey Gravy Recipe for the Holidays
This holiday gravy recipe is inspired by French cuisine.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Red Wine
- 2 cups Chicken/Turkey Broth
- 2 Bay Leaves
- Thyme Springs
- 1 tbsp. Cornstarch
- Salt and Pepper
Instructions
- Bring red wine and chicken/turkey broth to a boil, and then lower to medium heat.
- Add the bay leaves and thyme springs.
- Once it has been cooking for around 10 minutes, mix the cornstarch with a little water to dissolve.
- Add the cornstarch, salt and pepper.
- Continue cooking while stirring until it’s thick.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition Information
Yield 4 Serving Size 1Amount Per Serving Calories 261Total Fat 9gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 65mgSodium 358mgCarbohydrates 5gFiber 0gSugar 1gProtein 17g
Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given, the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.
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