Make-Ahead Gravy

Directions

Position a rack in the center of the oven, and heat the oven to 425°F. Put the wings in a large, deep roasting pan. Roast, flipping once halfway through cooking time, for 40 minutes. Transfer the wings to a large Dutch oven or other heavy-duty pot. Add about 1/2 cup water to the roasting pan, and using a wooden spoon, scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Pour the browned bits and drippings into the pot with the wings. To the pot, add the onion, carrots, celery, bay leaves, sage, thyme, and 10 cups water. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then lower the heat to low and simmer gently for 2-1/2 hours, skimming off any foam that rises to the top. Season with the salt, then strain, discarding the solids. Melt the butter in a deep skillet over medium-low heat. Add the shallots, and cook gently, stirring, until softened but not colored, about 2 minutes. Sift the flour over the shallots, stirring to incorporate. Cook, stirring, until the roux is lightly golden, about 5 minutes. Slowly add the stock in ladlefuls, stirring to incorporate. When it is all added, cook, simmering gently, until thickened, about 8 minutes. Add the salt and pepper. Use immediately or allow to cool, then refrigerate, covered, for up to 5 days. When you reheat the gravy, you may need to add a few tablespoons of stock or water to achieve the desired consistency.