Is Turkey Gravy Truly Gluten-Free? Exploring the Ingredients in This Holiday Favorite

Turkey gravy is a staple at many holiday meals. The rich, savory sauce pairs perfectly with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and more. But is turkey gravy gluten-free? The answer isn’t so simple. Traditional gravy recipes often call for wheat flour to thicken the sauce. However, there are easy ways to adapt gravy to be gluten-free. Let’s explore the ingredients that go into turkey gravy and how to keep it gluten-free and safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Gluten-Free Thickeners

The key to gluten-free gravy is using a thickener that doesn’t contain gluten. Here are some common options:

• Cornstarch – This pure cornstarch is naturally gluten-free. Look for brands that are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

• Tapioca starch/flour – Also called tapioca flour, this starch is extracted from the cassava root. It provides excellent thickening power.

• Arrowroot – This starchy flour made from the arrowroot plant is an option for paleo diets

• Gluten-free all-purpose flour – Store-bought blends work well just not quite as thickening power as cornstarch or tapioca.

• Xanthan gum – Add just a sprinkle of this to gravy along with cornstarch or flour to prevent clumping

Turkey Drippings

The flavorful pan drippings left over from roasting turkey form the flavor base of gravy. Be sure to use a turkey that hasn’t been injected or basted with any unknown ingredients. Some compound butters or injections may contain gluten. Look for plain turkeys only seasoned with salt and pepper.

When making your own turkey, avoid stuffings that contain bread, wheat flour, or unknown thickening agents. Stick to traditional rice, celery, onion, herb stuffings to be safe.

Broths and Stock

Homemade turkey broth shines in gluten-free gravy, but isn’t always practical. When buying stocks and broths, opt for low-sodium varieties without added thickeners like wheat flour. Chicken, turkey, and vegetable broths are all gluten-free choices. Never use cream soups or broths as they frequently contain gluten thickeners.

Dairy and Nuts

For extra richness, stir in plain dairy like whole milk, cream, half and half, or nut milks. Always read labels as some creamers and non-dairy milks contain gluten ingredients. Similarly, toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans add nice depth of flavor. Just check they are plain with no breading or flavorings.

Herbs and Seasonings

Fresh or dried herbs are great for flavor in gluten-free turkey gravy. Rosemary, thyme, sage all pair wonderfully with poultry. As for seasoning, opt for plain salt, pepper, poultry seasoning blends, celery salt, onion powder, garlic powder and other single-ingredient spices. Avoid premixed seasoning packets as they often contain gluten.

Making Gluten-Free Turkey Gravy

Here is a simple process for putting together gluten-free turkey gravy:

• Start by separating the pan drippings from the roasted turkey, leaving behind any solids.
• Skim excess fat from the drippings and transfer to a saucepan.
• For every 1 cup of drippings, whisk in 1-2 tbsp cornstarch or tapioca starch as a thickener along with 1 cup turkey broth.
• Simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently, until thickened to desired consistency.
• Add cream, milk, or nut milk to taste for richness and creaminess. Stir until fully incorporated.
• Season with salt, pepper, herbs and spices as desired.

The ingredients for gravy are simple but do pay close attention to labels and quality of ingredients. Thickeners, broths, flavorings, and pan drippings must all be gluten-free for the finished gravy to be considered gluten-free. With the right substitutions, turkey gravy can be a delicious gluten-free accompaniment to your holiday meals.

Tips for Safely Enjoying Turkey Gravy

Here are some extra tips for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity:

• If preparing gravy for others with wheat flour, use separate tools and cookware to prevent cross-contact.

• Look at the whole meal when planning. Avoid stuffings, rolls, biscuits with gluten to minimize overall exposure.

• Ask about ingredients if dining out or at someone else’s home. Don’t assume gravy is safe.

• Those with celiac should avoid shared serving utensils around the gravy to prevent cross-contact. Use your own tools.

• If extremely sensitive, gravy may be too high risk since even tiny amounts of cross-contact can trigger issues. Focus on lower risk sides.

With some adjustments and ingredient vetting, turkey gravy can absolutely be part of a gluten-free holiday feast. Follow these tips for minimizing risk and keeping your meal tasty, yet gluten-free.