My mom taught me to make brown gravy when I was about 10, so I find it pretty easy. I use cornstarch instead of flour because it's easier to work with. Never add it when it's too hot, because that's what causes the lumps, and make sure to stir constantly. We originally started using corn starch because my dad had celiac disease, but it truly is easier to work with.

I don't like cranberries. I actually used to forget to buy them, because my husband and I don't eat them, but I got the hint when my mother-in-law started bringing her own can. Now my mom makes her own from scratch every year, and I serve that.