Introduction

Gravy is a classic accompaniment to many dishes, adding flavor and richness to any meal. Making gravy from scratch may seem daunting, but it’s actually quite simple and can elevate your meal to the next level. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make delicious gravy from scratch, including basic ingredients, cooking techniques, troubleshooting advice, and even some easy recipes to get you started.

The Ultimate Guide to Making Delicious Gravy from Scratch

First things first, let’s talk about the basic ingredients you’ll need to make gravy from scratch. These include fat (such as butter or oil), flour, stock (beef or chicken), and seasoning (salt and pepper).

Once you have your ingredients, you’ll want to start with a roux. A roux is a mixture of fat and flour that serves as the base for your gravy. Melt your butter in a saucepan and add your flour, stirring constantly until it forms a smooth paste. Then, gradually add in your stock, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook until it thickens to your desired consistency.

When it comes to cooking techniques, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that your gravy turns out perfectly. First, be sure to cook your roux until it’s a deep golden brown – this will give your gravy a rich, nutty flavor. Also, whisk constantly when adding your stock to prevent lumps from forming. Finally, don’t overcook your gravy, as it can become too thick and gummy.

If you’re having trouble getting your gravy to the right consistency, don’t despair. One common mistake people make is adding too much flour to their roux, which can result in a lumpy, thick gravy. If this happens, simply strain out the lumps and continue cooking until it thickens to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can use a cornstarch slurry to thicken your gravy. Simply mix cornstarch and cold water in a separate bowl until smooth, then gradually whisk it into your gravy.

5 Easy Gravy Recipes to Make from Scratch

If you’re looking for some easy, delicious gravy recipes to try, we’ve got you covered.

Mushroom Gravy

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef or chicken stock
• Salt and pepper to taste

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and sauté until soft. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Gradually add the stock, stirring constantly. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer until thickened, about 5-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Onion Gravy

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef or chicken stock
• Salt and pepper to taste

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until softened and translucent. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Gradually add the stock, stirring constantly. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer until thickened, about 5-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Turkey Gravy

• Turkey drippings
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken stock
• Salt and pepper to taste

After roasting your turkey, transfer the drippings to a saucepan. Whisk in the flour and let cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the chicken stock, whisking constantly. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer until thickened, about 5-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Red Wine Gravy

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1/2 cup red wine
• Salt and pepper to taste

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Gradually add the beef stock and red wine, stirring constantly. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer until thickened, about 10-15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Vegan Gravy

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups vegetable stock
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Gradually add the vegetable stock, stirring constantly. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer until thickened, about 5-10 minutes. Stir in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.

How to Elevate Your Holiday Meal with Homemade Gravy

Holiday meals are often defined by the dishes we serve, and gravy can play a vital role in making these dishes truly special. To make the most flavorful gravy possible, consider adding herbs and spices to your roux. Thyme, rosemary, and sage are all classic herbs that pair well with gravy. You can also add a splash of wine or a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for an extra depth of flavor.

The Science of Gravy: How to Get It Right Every Time

Believe it or not, there is a bit of science behind making perfect gravy. The main ingredients – fat, flour, and liquid – interact in specific ways to create the perfect consistency. One important thing to keep in mind is that you should always whisk your roux as you’re cooking it. This will help break down the flour into smaller particles, which will result in a smoother gravy. Additionally, you can use cornstarch as a thickener, which works by reducing the surface tension of the gravy and creating a smooth, silky texture. Just be sure to mix it with cold liquid before adding it to your hot gravy, as this will prevent clumping.

Homemade Gravy: A Budget-Friendly Alternative to Store-Bought

Making gravy from scratch is not only delicious, it’s also more cost-effective than buying pre-made gravy from the store. Not to mention, you have complete control over the ingredients and flavors. If you’re making gravy in bulk, consider freezing it in individual portions for easy use later on. Simply thaw it in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Conclusion

Making gravy from scratch is easier than you might think, and the results are well worth the effort. With these recipes, tips, and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a gravy-making pro.