- All-purpose flour (3/4 cup) - for thickening the gravy
- Chicken broth (1 1/2 cups) - homemade or store-bought
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Garlic cloves, minced (3-4 cloves) - for added flavor
- Thyme leaves (1 tablespoon), fresh or dried
- Rosemary sprigs (a few sprigs), fresh or dried
- Bay leaves (2 pieces)
- Onion, chopped (1 medium)
- Carrots, peeled and sliced (2 large)
- Celery stalks, sliced (2 celery sticks)
- Vegetable stock (optional, to add depth of flavor)
- Salt (to taste) - for seasoning the turkey only
- Brown sugar (1 tablespoon) - optional, for a touch of sweetness
This list includes all necessary ingredients and some SEO-friendly keywords to optimize your recipe content.
Steps
### Braised Turkey with Gravy: A Flavorful Main Dish Recipe
#### Introduction
Braised turkey is a hearty and delicious main course perfect for special occasions or family dinners. This dish combines tender meat with rich flavors from herbs, vegetables, and a savory gravy. Follow these detailed steps to create a mouth-watering braised turkey with a perfectly golden, flavorful gravy.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 whole turkey (3-4 lbs), preferably organic
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil or butter
- 2 onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- Thyme sprigs
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
#### Equipment:
- Large Dutch oven or heavy pot
- Skimmer or slotted spoon
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
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### Step-by-Step Instructions:
#### Preparing the Turkey (5 minutes)
1. **Preheat your oven** to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Season the turkey** with salt and pepper inside and out.
3. **Rinse and dry the turkey** thoroughly.
#### Browning the Turkey (10-15 minutes)
4. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat.
5. Place the turkey breast side up in the pot.
6. Brown the turkey on all sides until golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes per side.
7. Remove and set aside.
#### Cooking the Vegetables (10-12 minutes)
8. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the same pot.
9. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes or until vegetables are softened.
#### Creating the Base for Gravy (5-7 minutes)
10. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and mix well to coat them evenly.
11. Stir in beef broth and red wine (if using).
12. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently.
#### Braising the Turkey (30-40 minutes)
13. Return the turkey to the pot, skin side up if possible.
14. Add bay leaf, thyme sprigs, and rosemary.
15. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid or aluminum foil.
16. Place in the preheated oven and braise for 25-30 minutes.
#### Finishing the Gravy (5-7 minutes)
17. Remove the turkey from the pot and place it on a baking sheet to rest.
18. Skim any excess fat from the braising liquid.
19. Bring the remaining liquid to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
20. Simmer for 3-4 minutes or until slightly thickened.
#### Serving (5 minutes)
21. Slice the turkey and serve with the gravy.
22. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired.
### Tips:
- For a deeper flavor, use a homemade stock instead of beef broth.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, whisk in more flour before adding liquid.
- Use this recipe for a comforting holiday meal or anytime you want to impress your guests!
### Conclusion
Braised turkey with a rich and flavorful gravy is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. By following these detailed steps, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked, tender turkey with an irresistible gravy made from simple ingredients.
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