Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when family gathers around the table, and the aroma of roasted turkey fills the air. But let’s be honest, what truly ties all those delicious dishes together? Yep, you guessed it—gravy! Now, I know what you might be thinking: “But what if I don’t have any drippings?” Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with my *thanksgiving gravy without drippings* recipe! It’s quick, easy, and super flavorful. I remember the first time I made this for my family; they couldn’t believe it didn’t come from the turkey! Trust me, this gravy will have everyone begging for more, drizzled over mashed potatoes or stuffing. Let’s get saucy!
Ingredients for Thanksgiving Gravy without Drippings
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious *thanksgiving gravy without drippings*. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – This adds a rich, creamy base to your gravy.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – This helps thicken the gravy to that perfect consistency.
- 4 cups vegetable broth – Use a good quality broth for a flavorful foundation.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – For that lovely background flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Because who doesn’t love a bit of garlic?
- Salt to taste – Essential for enhancing all those yummy flavors.
- Pepper to taste – A sprinkle adds just the right kick!
These ingredients are simple, yet they come together to create a mouthwatering gravy that will complement your Thanksgiving feast beautifully! Don’t forget to check your pantry for these goodies before you start cooking.
How to Prepare Thanksgiving Gravy without Drippings
Making *thanksgiving gravy without drippings* is surprisingly straightforward and rewarding! Follow these steps to whip up a delicious sauce that’ll leave everyone raving about your gravy skills.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Make sure it’s all melted and bubbly, but watch it closely so it doesn’t brown!
- Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it’s lightly golden. This is your roux, and it’s crucial for thickening your gravy.
- Gradually add in 4 cups of vegetable broth, whisking continuously. This helps prevent any lumps from forming—just keep that whisk moving!
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Let those flavors blend together beautifully.
- Now, let your gravy simmer for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon!
- Finally, taste it! Adjust your seasoning as needed, then serve hot over your favorite Thanksgiving dishes.
Tips for Success
- Herb it up: Want to elevate the flavor? Add a pinch of dried thyme or sage to your gravy while it simmers. It adds a wonderful depth!
- Consistency check: If your gravy gets too thick, just whisk in a bit more broth until it reaches your ideal texture.
- Make ahead: You can prepare this gravy ahead of time! Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
- Storage tips: Leftover gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days—if it lasts that long!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the estimated nutritional values for my delicious *thanksgiving gravy without drippings*. Keep in mind, these are approximate values and can vary based on specific brands and measurements:
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 80
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 1g
This gravy is not only delicious but also a lighter alternative to traditional options, making it a perfect fit for your Thanksgiving table! Enjoy every flavorful spoonful!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this gravy in about 20 minutes—perfect for those last-minute Thanksgiving preparations!
- No Drippings Required: Don’t stress if you’ve got no turkey drippings! This recipe relies on vegetable broth for a rich flavor that stands on its own.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Ideal for all your vegetarian guests, this gravy packs in flavor without any meat products, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to personalize the flavor. It’s versatile enough to match any dish on your table!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare it in advance and reheat, saving you precious time on Thanksgiving day!
- Deliciously Satisfying: This gravy is smooth, savory, and absolutely delicious—perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes, stuffing, or even roasted veggies!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
Understanding the ingredients in my *thanksgiving gravy without drippings* can really help you make this recipe your own! Here’s a breakdown of each component and some handy substitutions if you need them:
- Unsalted Butter: This is essential for creating a rich, creamy base. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute with olive oil or vegan butter. Just keep an eye on the flavor—it’ll be a bit different, but still delicious!
- All-Purpose Flour: This is used to thicken the gravy. If you need a gluten-free option, try using cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend instead. Just remember to whisk it well to avoid any lumps!
- Vegetable Broth: A good quality broth is key for flavor. If you don’t have any on hand, water can work in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as rich. Alternatively, you could use chicken broth if you’re not strictly vegetarian.
- Onion Powder and Garlic Powder: These spices add depth. If you prefer fresh, you can substitute with finely chopped onions and minced garlic—just sauté them in the butter before adding the flour for a fresher taste.
- Salt and Pepper: Always adjust these to taste! If you’re watching your sodium intake, feel free to use low-sodium broth and seasonings. You can also use herbs like garlic salt or seasoned salt for added flavor.
These substitutions will maintain the flavor and texture of your gravy while allowing you to cater to any dietary needs or personal preferences. Get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious *thanksgiving gravy without drippings* is super easy, and it tastes just as good when reheated! Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty:
- Storage: Allow the gravy to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tight to prevent any odors from sneaking in!
- Freezing: If you want to make it even further ahead, you can freeze the gravy! Pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and it’ll last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply pour the gravy into a saucepan over low to medium heat. Stir it occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. If it’s thickened up too much, don’t worry! Just add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. You want it nice and smooth!
Following these simple guidelines will ensure your gravy stays flavorful and ready to enhance any meal, even days after Thanksgiving. Enjoy every last drop!
FAQ Section
Can I make this gravy in advance?
Absolutely! This *thanksgiving gravy without drippings* can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
What if my gravy is too thick?
Don’t worry if your gravy turns out thicker than you’d like! Simply whisk in a bit more vegetable broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. It’s all about making it perfect for your meal!
Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, you can! If you’re not strictly vegetarian, chicken broth will add a different flavor profile to your gravy. Just be aware that it will change the overall taste slightly!
How long can I store the leftovers?
You can keep your *thanksgiving gravy without drippings* in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 2 months!
Can I adjust the seasonings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste. Add more garlic powder, throw in some fresh herbs, or adjust the salt and pepper. Make it your own!
Thanksgiving Gravy Without Drippings: 5 Savory Secrets Revealed
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple recipe for making gravy without using drippings.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually add vegetable broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Add onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 5-10 minutes until thickened.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.
Notes
- This gravy can be made ahead of time and reheated.
- Add herbs like thyme or sage for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: thanksgiving gravy, gravy without drippings, vegetarian gravy
