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Spicy Cajun Turkey Gravy

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  • #46857

This isn't your typical turkey gravy. The pilgrims might not have approved of the jalapenos and spicy Cajun seasoning, but you'll be converted to the zesty side real quick.


serves/makes:
  
ready in:
  under 30 minutes
Rating: 5/5

1 review

ingredients

turkey broth, as needed
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely minced
2 tablespoons minced garlic
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/4 cup lime juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, optional

directions

Skim any visible fat from the turkey roasting pan juices and reserve 3 tablespoons of the fat.

Measure the pan juices, adding enough turkey or other broth to equal 2 cups of liquid in the roasting pan.

Place the roasting pan over medium-high heat and bring the pan juices to a boil, scraping up any baked on bits from the bottom of the pan. Remove the pan from the heat.

Place the reserved turkey fat in a large saucepan over medium heat. Heat until bubbly. Add the jalapeno and garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until soft, about 2 minutes.

Stir the flour into the fat and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Add the lime juice, salt, pepper, Cajun seasoning, and liquid from the roasting pan. Turn the heat to high and bring the gravy to a boil, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens, about 3 minutes.

Remove the pan from the heat. Stir the cilantro into the spicy Cajun turkey gravy and serve the gravy immediately.

recipe tips


Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and jalapeno to suit your taste for spiciness.

Constant stirring while cooking the roux and adding the liquid prevents lumps from forming.

Serve the gravy hot for the best flavor and consistency.

Pair this gravy with traditional turkey, chicken, or even over mashed potatoes for a spicy twist.

For an extra smooth gravy, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.

Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, as the flavors will develop as the gravy cooks.

Experiment with adding other spices like cumin or smoked paprika for additional flavor.

common recipe questions


Can I use store-bought turkey broth?

Yes, store-bought turkey or chicken broth works well.

Why is it important to skim the fat from the pan juices?

Skimming the fat gives your gravy the right consistency and keeps it from being overly greasy.

Can I substitute the lime juice?

Lime juice adds a tangy, fresh flavor. If unavailable, lemon juice or vinegar can be used as substitutes, though they will slightly alter the flavor.

How do I adjust the thickness of the gravy?

If the gravy is too thick, add more broth to thin it out. If it's too thin, cook it longer to reduce, or make a slurry with equal parts flour and water, then whisk it into the gravy.

Can I prepare this gravy in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently, adding a bit of broth if it thickens too much upon cooling.

How long can I store the leftover gravy?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.


nutrition data

23 calories, 0 grams fat, 5 grams carbohydrates, 1 grams protein per serving. This recipe is low in fat.
Show full nutritional data (including Weight Watcher's Points ®, cholesterol, sodium, vitamins, and diabetic exchanges)


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reviews & comments

  1. KPDUTY REVIEW:

    Made this pre-thanksgiving as a test using chicken drippings/broth. I just wanted to test the balance of ingredients before the big day. This gravy is a winner! I think it's going to taste even better with turkey. We're doing a spicy t-day this year and this will fit in perfect. It's not over spicy but has a ton of flavor, more than regular gravy.

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