Making delicious gravy from scratch doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful gravy that will elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving it with roast chicken, mashed potatoes, or Thanksgiving turkey, this easy gravy recipe is sure to impress.
One of the key components of a good gravy is a rich and flavorful stock. If you don’t have any homemade stock on hand, don’t worry. You can easily make a quick stock by simmering chicken or beef bouillon cubes in water until they dissolve. This will provide a solid foundation for your gravy.
To thicken the gravy, you’ll need a roux, which is a mixture of equal parts fat (such as butter or drippings) and flour. Heat the fat in a saucepan over medium heat, then slowly whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth paste. Cook the roux for a minute or two to remove the raw flour taste.
Next, slowly whisk in the stock, a little at a time, until the gravy reaches your desired consistency. If you like a thicker gravy, add less stock. If you prefer a thinner gravy, add more stock. Season the gravy with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like. Simmer the gravy for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, then serve hot.
With this easy gravy recipe, you can take your meals from ordinary to extraordinary with just a few simple steps. So next time you’re craving a delicious homemade gravy, don’t reach for the store-bought kind. Whip up this easy recipe instead and impress your family and friends with your culinary prowess.
Ingredients
When making easy gravy from scratch, you will need a few key ingredients to achieve a flavorful and rich sauce. These ingredients include:
- Meat Drippings: The drippings from cooked meat, such as turkey, chicken, or beef, are essential for adding a depth of flavor to the gravy.
- Flour: Flour is used as a thickening agent in the gravy, helping to create a smooth and velvety texture.
- Broth or Stock: To create the base of the gravy, you will need a liquid such as chicken broth or beef stock. This adds both moisture and flavor.
- Seasonings: Common seasonings used in gravy include salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or rosemary. These spices help enhance the overall taste of the sauce.
- Butter or Fat: Adding a small amount of butter or fat to the gravy can contribute to its richness and flavor.
Here is a table summarizing the main ingredients for making easy gravy from scratch:
| Ingredient | Function |
|---|---|
| Meat Drippings | Adds flavor |
| Flour | Thickening agent |
| Broth or Stock | Base of the gravy |
| Seasonings | Enhance taste |
| Butter or Fat | Contribute to richness |
Directions
- Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients: pan drippings, flour, chicken or beef broth, butter, salt, and pepper.
- Place the pan drippings from your roasted meat into a saucepan. If there are a lot of drippings, you can use a ladle to remove some excess fat.
- Heat the saucepan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Allow it to melt and combine with the drippings.
- Sprinkle in a tablespoon of flour and whisk it into the drippings and butter mixture. Continue whisking until the flour is fully incorporated and the mixture becomes a smooth paste.
- Slowly pour in the chicken or beef broth, stirring continuously. The gravy will thicken as it simmers. If you like a thinner gravy, you can add more broth.
- Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. Remember to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- Continue simmering the gravy for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. If it becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a little more broth.
- Once the gravy is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Now you have a delicious homemade gravy to accompany your roasted meat!
Tips and Variations
- Using Different Stocks: Instead of using just chicken or beef stock, you can experiment with different stocks to add more depth to your gravy. Vegetable stock, mushroom stock, or a combination of stocks can give your gravy a unique and delicious flavor.
- Add Herbs and Spices: To enhance the taste of your gravy, consider adding herbs and spices. Common options include thyme, rosemary, sage, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Adjust the amounts according to your personal preference.
- Thickening Agents: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can use a combination of flour and butter to create a roux, which is then added to the stock. Cornstarch or arrowroot can also be used as alternatives. Be sure to whisk the thickening agent into the gravy slowly to avoid lumps.
- Adding Flavorful Enhancements: For extra flavor, you can add ingredients such as Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, red wine, or balsamic vinegar. These additions can give your gravy a tangy or rich undertone, depending on your preference.
- Vegetarian and Vegan Options: To make a vegetarian or vegan version of easy gravy from scratch, simply replace the meat-based stock with vegetable stock or mushroom stock. Use plant-based butter or oil instead of animal-based fats for the roux, and omit any dairy-based ingredients.
Feel free to experiment with these tips and variations to create a gravy that suits your taste buds. Remember, the key is to taste and adjust as you go to achieve the perfect flavor and consistency.
Serving Suggestions
1. Traditional Roast Dinner: Serve your gravy alongside a classic roast dinner. Pour it generously over your roast beef, lamb, or chicken, and enjoy the rich, savory flavor that complements the meat perfectly. Add some roast potatoes, carrots, and green vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Gravy and mashed potatoes are a match made in heaven. Spoon the gravy over a generous serving of creamy mashed potatoes and let the flavors meld together. This comforting combination is perfect for a cozy dinner or a hearty side dish.
- Top your poutine: If you’re a fan of poutine, a Canadian dish made with french fries, cheese curds, and gravy, make sure to drizzle your homemade gravy on top for an extra boost of flavor.
- Enhance your biscuits and gravy: For a Southern-inspired breakfast or brunch, serve your gravy over warm, fluffy biscuits. The creamy gravy adds a savory touch to the biscuits, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.
These are just a few serving suggestions for your homemade gravy. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different dishes and ingredients to find your own perfect gravy pairing.
