Turkey gravy

Description
Make your Christmas turkey gravy a thing of beauty with this simple recipe. Prepare steps 1–2 in advance to make life easier on the day.
Ingredients
- turkey giblets
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 sprig of thyme
- 4 black peppercorns
- ½ onion, sliced
- pan juices from the roast turkey
- 25g/1oz plain flour
- salt and pepper
Directions
- Place the giblets in a saucepan and cover with 1.2 litres/2 pints water. Add the bay leaf, thyme, peppercorns and onion. Bring to the boil and skim off any scum. Reduce the heat and then simmer for 45 minutes.
- Strain the stock and measure 750ml/1¼ pints. Set aside.
- Spoon off most of the fat from the roasting tin, leaving the turkey juices. Add the flour and blend with the juices over a gentle heat until it turns golden brown and it has a smooth texture.
- Slowly start adding your stock, a little at a time, scraping the tin (or pan) with a wooden or silicone spatula to lift up and incorporate all the tasty juices. Bring the gravy to a simmer, stirring constantly.
- Simmer for 3–4 minutes stirring all the time to remove any lumps and until the gravy thickens. Season to taste and serve.