Gravy Recipe
Gravy is a classic sauce that adds richness and depth to a variety of dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, a well-made gravy can transform your meal. This recipe is simple and can be adapted to your taste, ensuring a delicious addition to your table. Follow this guide to make your own flavorful gravy that is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary, optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is 5 minutes, and cooking time is about 10-15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1/4 cup) contains around 45 calories, 2g of fat, 6g of carbohydrates, and 1g of protein. This is based on one person serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until golden brown.
- Gradually pour in the broth while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using.
- If desired, add fresh herbs for extra flavor.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Strain the gravy if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Serve hot over your favorite dishes.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute butter with olive oil for a dairy-free option. For a gluten-free gravy, use cornstarch instead of flour and ensure your broth is gluten-free.
Serving and Pairings
This gravy is perfect for pouring over roasted chicken, turkey, or mashed potatoes. It also complements meatloaf and biscuits, making it a versatile accompaniment for many meals.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much. Gravy can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not whisking enough can lead to lumps in your gravy.
- Using too high heat can burn the flour and butter mixture.
- Skipping seasoning will result in bland gravy.
- Not adding enough liquid can make the gravy too thick.
- Using cold broth can create lumps; always use room temperature.
Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, use homemade broth.
- Adjust the thickness by varying the amount of flour.
- Experiment with different herbs for unique flavors.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
FAQs
Can I make gravy without drippings?
Yes, you can make gravy using only broth and butter, as outlined in this recipe. It will still be flavorful and delicious without meat drippings.
How can I thicken my gravy?
If your gravy is too thin, you can whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and water, or add more flour while whisking until the desired thickness is reached.
Can I make gravy ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare gravy in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat it gently before serving.
Is gravy gluten-free?
Traditional gravy made with flour is not gluten-free. However, you can use cornstarch or gluten-free flour as a substitute to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
What can I use instead of broth?
You can use water or vegetable stock in place of broth, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly, so season accordingly.
Conclusion
Making a delicious gravy is a simple yet rewarding task that enhances the flavor of many dishes. With just a few ingredients and some careful preparation, you can create a rich sauce that your family and friends will love. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and pairings to make this classic recipe your own.
Gravy Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce optional
- Fresh herbs thyme or rosemary, optional
Instructions
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until golden brown.
- Gradually pour in the broth while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using.
- If desired, add fresh herbs for extra flavor.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Strain the gravy if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Serve hot over your favorite dishes.
