Episode 109: Thanksgiving Comes Early
Turkey Jus
Due to the brining, the drippings in the pan under the turkey may prove too salty for gravy. (And there probably won’t be enough.) So place some chicken or turkey stock in an open foil pan in the smoker and smoke it while you cook the turkey. Added benefit: the steam will help keep the turkey moist.
Turkey Jus
Recipe Notes
- Yield: Makes about 2 cups
Ingredients
- Up to 1/2 cup smoked turkey drippings
- 2-1/2 to 3 cups turkey or chicken stock
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (optional)
- 3 tablespoons Madeira or cream sherry (optional)
- Salt, if needed, and freshly ground black pepper
Recipe Steps
Step 1: Strain the turkey dripping into a large measuring cup. Depending on how many drippings you have and how salty they are, you’ll use up to 1/2 cup. Add enough smoked turkey or chicken stock to make 3 cups.
Step 2: Bring the drippings and stock to a boil in a large saucepan. For a slightly thickened jus, dissolve the cornstarch in 1 tablespoon Madeira and whisk the mixture into the boiling stock. For an unthickened jus, add the Madeira and boil for 2 minutes. Whisk in salt and pepper to taste.