Put the flour in a shallow pan or skillet, I used my 10" cast iron skillet. Put the skillet in the oven and toast the flour for about 40-50 minutes, stirring every 5-7 minutes or so, until the flour turns a nutty brown. You can put it in a jar after it's cooled and it will keep for a couple of months in the cupboard.
To make the gravy
Melt the butter over medium heat in a heavy skillet or pan, and add the browned flour to it, stirring until combined. Continue stirring for a minute and then slowly add the broth to the pan, stirring or whisking as you go.
Bring the gravy to a simmer, stirring constantly. Taste and add salt and fresh cracked black pepper to taste.
If you would like your gravy even thicker, you can whisk in some Wondra flour.
Notes
This perfect gravy without the bird can be adapted for vegetarians, just use vegetable stock or broth.
Use plain flour for a paler gravy.
Confused about stock versus broth? Stocks are a little bit richer than broths, but with limited seasonings, so the flavor profile is pure and the cook has complete control over flavor. When I want a stronger flavor, I use stock. I use broth when I am making soups, and it's a perfect choice as a water replacement when cooking rice, couscous, and other grains. The flavor will infuse into the grains without overpowering.
Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although The View from Great Island attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
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