When it comes to cooking a turkey, there are numerous ways to make the most of this delicious bird. Many recipes out there suggest using the turkey giblets in stuffing. While that is a classic approach, our Test Kitchen has a preference for something that can elevate your dishes in multiple ways: homemade turkey stock.

Turkey stock is a flavorful liquid that serves as a versatile base for a variety of recipes. It can transform your gravy from ordinary to extraordinary. Imagine pouring a rich, savory turkey gravy over your perfectly roasted turkey and fluffy mashed potatoes. The gravy made with homemade turkey stock has a depth of flavor that store - bought alternatives simply can't match. The natural juices and essence of the turkey are concentrated in the stock, giving your gravy a true, authentic taste.

Stuffing is another dish that can benefit greatly from the use of turkey stock. Instead of using plain water or milk, incorporating turkey stock into your stuffing mixture adds a layer of complexity. The bread cubes soak up the savory liquid, becoming moist and full of flavor. You can add herbs, onions, and celery to the stuffing, and the turkey stock will bind all the ingredients together, creating a mouth - watering side dish that complements your main course.

Making homemade soup is yet another wonderful way to utilize turkey stock. You can create a simple turkey and vegetable soup by adding carrots, onions, celery, and leftover turkey meat to the stock. Simmer it on the stove, and in no time, you'll have a comforting bowl of soup that is perfect for a cold day. The turkey stock forms the foundation of the soup, providing a warm and hearty flavor that will soothe your soul.

Now, let's talk about how to make this amazing turkey stock. First, gather your ingredients. You'll need the turkey carcass, which includes the bones, neck, and any leftover meat scraps. You can also add the giblets if you like, although our Test Kitchen sometimes omits them for a cleaner flavor. Additionally, you'll need onions, carrots, celery, garlic, herbs such as thyme and rosemary, and some peppercorns.

Start by placing the turkey carcass in a large stockpot. Cut the onions, carrots, and celery into large chunks and add them to the pot. Crush a few cloves of garlic and toss them in as well. Sprinkle in the herbs and peppercorns. Pour in enough water to cover the carcass and vegetables completely. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for several hours. The longer you simmer, the more flavorful the stock will become. As it simmers, you can skim off any foam that rises to the surface to keep the stock clear.

Once the stock has simmered for a sufficient amount of time, remove the pot from the heat. Let it cool slightly, then strain the stock through a fine - mesh sieve into a large bowl. Discard the solids. You can then transfer the stock to containers and store it in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze it for longer - term storage.

When you're ready to use the turkey stock, simply thaw it if it's frozen. You can use it immediately in your recipes. Whether you're making gravy, stuffing, or soup, the homemade turkey stock will be the secret ingredient that takes your dishes to the next level.

In conclusion, while using turkey giblets in stuffing is a well - known tradition, homemade turkey stock offers a world of possibilities in the kitchen. It's a labor of love that rewards you with rich, flavorful dishes that your family and friends will surely enjoy. So, the next time you cook a turkey, don't forget to make a batch of this wonderful turkey stock and explore the many culinary delights it can bring.