6 Unexpected Ways to Use Turkey Drippings

What to Do with Turkey Drippings?

Turkey drippings are a delicious and versatile kitchen ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways. From making gravy to adding flavor to soups and stews, turkey drippings can help you create flavorful and memorable dishes.

In this article, we’ll discuss the different ways to use turkey drippings, as well as some tips for making the most of this flavorful ingredient. So whether you’re looking for a way to use up leftover drippings or you’re simply looking for new ways to add flavor to your cooking, read on for some great ideas!

What to do with Turkey Drippings?

| Use | Recipe | Notes |
|—|—|—|
| Gravy | [Turkey Gravy](https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/21552/turkey-gravy/) | Use drippings to make a rich and flavorful gravy. |
| Pan Sauce | [Pan Sauce for Turkey](https://www.thespruceeats.com/pan-sauce-for-turkey-3589328) | Use drippings to make a flavorful sauce to serve with your turkey. |
| Soup | [Turkey Soup](https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/turkey-soup) | Use drippings to make a hearty and flavorful soup. |
| Stock | [Turkey Stock](https://www.thespruceeats.com/turkey-stock-recipe-4585286) | Use drippings to make a flavorful stock that can be used in other recipes. |

Introduction

Turkey drippings are the flavorful juices that collect in the bottom of the roasting pan when you cook a turkey. They are a rich source of flavor and can be used to make a variety of delicious dishes.

In this article, we will discuss some of the best ways to use turkey drippings. We will also provide tips for storing and using them so that you can enjoy their flavor all year long.

Ways to use turkey drippings

There are many different ways to use turkey drippings. Here are a few of our favorites:

* Save the drippings from your cooked turkey. The best way to save turkey drippings is to place a roasting rack in the bottom of the pan and then pour the drippings into a heatproof container. You can also use a gravy separator to separate the fat from the drippings.
* Refrigerate the drippings for later use. Turkey drippings can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Be sure to store them in an airtight container so that they don’t absorb other flavors.
* Use the drippings to make gravy. Turkey drippings are the perfect base for a delicious gravy. Simply whisk together the drippings, some flour, and some broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
* Use the drippings to make soups or stews. Turkey drippings can add a lot of flavor to soups and stews. Simply add them to the pot along with the other ingredients and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
* Use the drippings to baste your turkey while it cooks. Basting your turkey with turkey drippings will help to keep it moist and flavorful. Be sure to baste the turkey every 30 minutes or so.
* Use the drippings to make pan sauces. Pan sauces are a great way to use up any leftover drippings. Simply pour the drippings into a skillet over medium heat. Add some flour and whisk to create a roux. Slowly add broth or stock and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
* Use the drippings to make croutons. Turkey drippings can be used to make delicious croutons. Simply toss some bread cubes with melted butter and turkey drippings. Bake at 350 degrees F for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
* Use the drippings to make biscuits. Turkey drippings can be used to make fluffy, flavorful biscuits. Simply add the drippings to your biscuit dough along with the other ingredients. Bake according to the recipe.
* Use the drippings to make stuffing. Turkey drippings can be used to make a delicious and flavorful stuffing. Simply add the drippings to your stuffing along with the other ingredients. Bake according to the recipe.

Tips for using turkey drippings

Here are a few tips for using turkey drippings:

* Use the drippings within a few days of cooking your turkey. Turkey drippings will start to lose their flavor after a few days.
* Do not freeze the drippings, as this will change their flavor.
* Add the drippings to your recipes slowly, as they can add a lot of saltiness.
* Use the drippings as a flavorful addition to your dishes, but not as the main ingredient.

Turkey drippings are a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used to make a variety of dishes. By following the tips in this article, you can enjoy the flavor of turkey drippings all year long.

What to do with turkey drippings?

Turkey drippings are the flavorful juices that come out of a turkey as it cooks. They can be used to make a variety of delicious dishes, such as gravy, pan sauces, and even soups.

Here are some tips for using turkey drippings:

* Save the drippings from your turkey as it cooks. You can do this by placing a roasting pan underneath the turkey and catching the drippings as they fall.
* Strain the drippings to remove any solids. This will help to prevent your dishes from becoming cloudy.
* Use the drippings immediately or store them in the refrigerator for later use. Drippings can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

Here are some delicious ways to use turkey drippings:

* Make gravy. Turkey drippings are the perfect base for a rich and flavorful gravy. Simply whisk together the drippings, some flour, and broth or water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until thickened.
* Make pan sauces. Turkey drippings can also be used to make delicious pan sauces. Simply add some drippings to a skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add some aromatics, such as garlic, onions, or shallots, and cook until softened. Add some wine or stock and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until thickened.
* Make soups. Turkey drippings can also be used to make flavorful soups. Simply add some drippings to a pot with some vegetables, broth, and herbs. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

No matter how you use them, turkey drippings are a delicious way to add flavor to your dishes. So next time you cook a turkey, be sure to save the drippings and use them to make something special.

Safety precautions for using turkey drippings

When using turkey drippings, it is important to take some safety precautions to avoid foodborne illness.

* Make sure that the drippings are properly cooked before using them. This means that the drippings should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Do not use drippings that have been sitting out for more than two hours. Drippings that have been sitting out for more than two hours are at risk of contamination with bacteria.
* Do not use drippings that have been contaminated with bacteria. This includes drippings that have been in contact with raw meat or poultry.

By following these safety precautions, you can help to prevent foodborne illness and enjoy your turkey drippings safely.

Resources for more information on using turkey drippings

* [The Spruce Eats: How to Use Turkey Drippings](https://www.thespruceeats.com/how-to-use-turkey-drippings-591620)
* [Bon Apptit: What to Do With Turkey Drippings](https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/what-to-do-with-turkey-drippings)
* [Serious Eats: How to Make the Best Turkey Gravy](https://www.seriouseats.com/the-food-lab-how-to-make-the-best-turkey-gravy-recipe)

Turkey drippings are a delicious and versatile way to add flavor to your dishes. By following the safety precautions listed above, you can enjoy your turkey drippings safely and without worry.

Here are some additional tips for using turkey drippings:

* Use turkey drippings to make a flavorful roux for soups, stews, and sauces.
* Drizzle turkey drippings over roasted vegetables for a delicious and flavorful side dish.
* Use turkey drippings to make a quick and easy pan sauce for grilled or roasted meats.
* Add turkey drippings to your favorite casseroles and baked dishes for a rich and flavorful boost.

With a little creativity, you can use turkey drippings to create a variety of delicious dishes that your family and friends will love.

What are turkey drippings?

Turkey drippings are the liquid that comes out of a turkey as it cooks. They are a combination of fat, water, and juices from the turkey.

What can I do with turkey drippings?

There are many things you can do with turkey drippings. Here are a few ideas:

* Make gravy. The most common use for turkey drippings is to make gravy. Gravy is a delicious and flavorful sauce that can be served with turkey, mashed potatoes, or other dishes.
* Drizzle over roasted vegetables. Turkey drippings can also be used to drizzle over roasted vegetables. This will add flavor and moisture to the vegetables.
* Use as a base for soups or stews. Turkey drippings can be used as a base for soups or stews. This will add flavor and richness to the soup or stew.
* Save for future use. If you have a lot of turkey drippings, you can save them for future use. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

How do I make gravy with turkey drippings?

To make gravy with turkey drippings, you will need:

* 1 cup turkey drippings
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup cold water
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the flour and cold water until smooth.
2. Add the turkey drippings to the saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in the salt and pepper and cook for 1 minute more.
5. Serve immediately.

Can I use turkey drippings for anything other than gravy?

Yes, you can use turkey drippings for a variety of other dishes. Here are a few ideas:

* Drizzle over roasted vegetables.
* Use as a base for soups or stews.
* Save for future use.
* Make turkey confit.
* Make turkey stock.

How do I make turkey confit with turkey drippings?

To make turkey confit with turkey drippings, you will need:

* 1 whole turkey leg
* 1 cup turkey drippings
* 1/2 cup olive oil
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 275 degrees F (135 degrees C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the turkey leg, turkey drippings, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours.
4. Remove the turkey leg from the marinade and place it in a roasting pan.
5. Roast the turkey leg in the oven for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
6. Let the turkey leg rest for 10 minutes before serving.

How do I make turkey stock with turkey drippings?

To make turkey stock with turkey drippings, you will need:

* 1 cup turkey drippings
* 2 quarts water
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 carrots, chopped
* 1 celery stalk, chopped
* 1 bay leaf
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the turkey drippings, water, onion, carrots, celery, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the liquid has reduced by half.
4. Strain the stock and discard the solids.
5. Use the stock immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

What are some tips for using turkey drippings?

Here are a few tips for using turkey drippings:

* Use them within 3 days of cooking the turkey.
* Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
* Freeze them for up to 3 months.
* Use them as a substitute for oil or butter in recipes.
* Add them to soups, stews, or sauces for extra flavor.
* Drizzle them over roasted vegetables for a flavorful and delicious addition.

there are many delicious and creative ways to use turkey drippings. Whether you use them to make gravy, pan sauces, or other dishes, they can add a rich and flavorful touch to your meal. So next time you cook a turkey, don’t forget to save the drippings! You may be surprised at how versatile they are.

Here are a few key takeaways:

* Turkey drippings can be used to make gravy, pan sauces, soups, and other dishes.
* They can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.
* To make gravy, whisk together the drippings with flour, broth, and seasonings.
* To make a pan sauce, add the drippings to a hot skillet and whisk in some flour, broth, and herbs.
* Turkey drippings can also be used to make a variety of other dishes, such as biscuits, stuffing, and rice.

So next time you cook a turkey, don’t forget to save the drippings! You may be surprised at how delicious and versatile they are.