If you're looking for a low-calorie condiment for your meals, consider turkey gravy. A 1/4 cup (60 ml) serving of turkey gravy contains only about 25 calories, making it a great option for those who are watching their weight.
In addition, turkey gravy is a good source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12. It's also low in fat, cholesterol, and sodium, making it a heart-healthy choice. However, it's important to keep your portion sizes in check to avoid excess calorie intake.
In this article, we'll explore some ways to incorporate turkey gravy into your diet, its nutrition facts, benefits over other condiments, and more.
Turkey Gravy as a Low-Calorie Option
As mentioned, turkey gravy is a great low-calorie option for those who want to add flavor to their meals without consuming excess calories. Compared to other high-calorie condiments such as ketchup and barbecue sauce, turkey gravy is a healthier choice. To make it even healthier, consider making your own turkey gravy at home using fresh ingredients and limiting the amount of salt and fat used in the recipe. This way, you can control the calorie and nutrient content of the gravy.
How to Incorporate Turkey Gravy into Your Diet
There are many ways to incorporate turkey gravy into your diet. One way is to use it as a topping for your roasted or grilled meats, such as chicken or beef. It can also be used as a dip for vegetables or as a sauce for mashed potatoes or rice dishes. Another way to use turkey gravy is to add it to your soups and stews to enhance their flavor. You can also use it as a base for your homemade gravies and sauces to create a richer taste.
Benefits of Choosing Turkey Gravy over Other Condiments
Not only is turkey gravy a low-calorie option, but it also has other benefits over high-calorie condiments. For example, turkey gravy is a good source of protein, which is important for building and repairing muscle tissues. It also contains iron and vitamin B12, which are essential for healthy blood cells and nerve function. In addition, turkey gravy is low in fat, cholesterol, and sodium, making it a heart-healthy choice.
Turkey Gravy Nutrition Facts
Here are the nutrition facts for a 1/4 cup (60 ml) serving of turkey gravy: - calories: 25 - Protein: 1 g
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Iron: 2% of the Daily Value
- Vitamin B12: 2.5% of the Daily Value
Ways to Make Turkey Gravy Healthier
To make turkey gravy even healthier, you can try these tips: - Use low-sodium chicken broth or turkey drippings instead of high-sodium canned broth
- Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the gravy, which is lower in calories
- Skim off the fat from the turkey drippings before making the gravy
- Add herbs and spices to enhance flavor instead of salt
- Use non-fat milk instead of cream to make the gravy creamier
Turkey Gravy as a Flavorful Addition to Your Meals
Not only is turkey gravy a healthy option, but it also adds a flavorful and savory taste to your meals. Its rich texture and aroma make it a great addition to a variety of dishes, from roasted meats to mashed potatoes and casseroles. By using turkey gravy instead of high-calorie and high-fat condiments, you can add a delicious taste to your meals without compromising your health goals.
Turkey Gravy in Traditional Thanksgiving Recipes
Turkey gravy is often used in traditional Thanksgiving recipes such as roasted turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes. Its rich and savory flavor complements the other dishes and brings the whole meal together. To make your Thanksgiving meal healthier, consider making your own turkey gravy instead of using canned gravy or store-bought mixes. This way, you can control the ingredients and make it a low-calorie option for your guests.
How Much Turkey Gravy Should You Have in a Serving
Although turkey gravy is a low-calorie option, it's still important to watch your portion sizes. A 1/4 cup (60 ml) serving of turkey gravy contains about 25 calories, so aim to keep your portion sizes around this amount. If you're making your own turkey gravy at home, use measuring cups to ensure that your portion sizes are accurate.
Tips for Making the Perfect Turkey Gravy
Making the perfect turkey gravy requires some skill and technique. Here are some tips to help you make the perfect gravy: - Use fresh turkey drippings for the best flavor
- Make sure to skim off the fat from the drippings before using them
- Whisk the flour or cornstarch into the broth or drippings to prevent lumps
- Cook the gravy over low heat to prevent burning
- Add herbs and spices to enhance flavor
- Adjust the seasoning to taste
Caring for Your Health with Turkey Gravy
In conclusion, turkey gravy is a great low-calorie condiment for those who want to add flavor to their meals while keeping their calorie intake in check. Its nutritional benefits make it a healthy choice, and its rich and savory taste makes it a flavorful addition to a variety of dishes. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this article, you can make your turkey gravy even healthier and more delicious. So next time you're looking for a healthy and flavorful condiment, consider giving turkey gravy a try.
5 FAQ About Turkey Gravy
1. How many calories are in a 1/4 cup (60 ml) of turkey gravy?
There are approximately 25 calories in a 1/4 cup (60 ml) of turkey gravy.
2. What are the main ingredients in turkey gravy?
The main ingredients in turkey gravy typically include turkey drippings or broth, flour, butter or oil, and seasonings.
3. Is turkey gravy healthy?
Turkey gravy can be healthy in moderation, as it is a good source of protein and can be low in fat and calories depending on the recipe. However, it can also be high in sodium and saturated fat, so it's important to consume it in moderation and choose recipes that use healthy ingredients.
4. Can you make turkey gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can make turkey gravy ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer until you're ready to use it. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
5. What are some common uses for turkey gravy?
Turkey gravy is commonly used as a sauce for roasted or grilled turkey, as well as for mashed potatoes, stuffing, and other holiday side dishes. It can also be used as a base for soups and stews.