Barefoot Contessa Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy With Onions & Sage

Barefoot Contessa Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy with Onions & Sage is made with unsalted butter, red onion, garlic, fresh sage, chicken stock, and Cognac. This recipe creates a rich, flavorful gravy perfect for any holiday meal. It takes about 2 hour and 5 minutes to prepare and makes 4 cups.

Barefoot Contessa Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy with Onions & Sage Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons (¾ stick) unsalted butter
• 1 large red onion, halved and sliced ¼ inch thick
• 4 large garlic cloves, peeled and halved
• 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups good chicken stock, preferably homemade
• 2 tablespoons Cognac or brandy
• 10 large fresh sage leaves
• 2 bay leaves
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio

How To Make Barefoot Contessa Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy with Onions & Sage

1. Sauté Aromatics: Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, then add onion and garlic and sauté for 15–20 minutes until browned and caramelized.
2. Cook the Flour: Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1½ minutes.
3. Simmer the Base: Stir in chicken stock, Cognac, sage, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Strain and Store: Remove from heat and let sit at room temperature for 1 hour. Strain the mixture, pressing solids gently, and discard them. Refrigerate until ready to use.
5. Finish the Gravy: After roasting the turkey, remove it and place the roasting pan over medium heat. Add white wine, bring to a boil, then simmer for 2 minutes, scraping the pan.
6. Combine and Thicken: Slowly whisk the gravy base into the pan and simmer for about 5 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened. Season to taste and serve hot.

Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: The gravy base can be made up to a week in advance or frozen for 3 months.
• Deglaze Properly: Scraping the roasted bits from the pan adds deep flavor.
• Use Homemade Stock: For the richest flavor, opt for homemade chicken stock.
• Don’t Skip the Strain: Straining ensures a smooth, lump-free gravy.
• Finish Fresh: Combine with pan drippings just before serving for the best taste.

What To Serve With Turkey Gravy

This turkey gravy pairs perfectly with roast turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, roasted vegetables, and biscuits. It also enhances leftovers like turkey sandwiches or open-faced turkey melts.

How To Store Turkey Gravy

Refrigerate: Store the strained gravy base in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freeze: Freeze the base in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Turkey Gravy Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 90
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 320mg

FAQs

Can I skip the Cognac?
Yes, you can omit it or substitute with extra white wine or stock.

Do I have to use red onion?
Red onion adds sweetness, but yellow or white onions can be used as substitutes.

How do I reheat the gravy?
Warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, whisking occasionally.

Is this gluten-free?
No, but you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute.

Can I use dried sage?
Fresh sage is preferred, but 1 teaspoon dried sage can be used in a pinch.

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• Ina Garten Pesto Recipe
• Ina Garten Roquefort Chive Sauce
• Ina Garten Yogurt Mint Sauce