Tis the season to make gravy. Yummy, rich, flavorful gravy that will make everyone happy … well except for our gluten free friends (sorry guys you will get a fun recipe next week).
I want to share with you all a foundational recipe. Something that I learned in culinary school, and can be applied to all types of gravies you make moving forward. If you have any specific questions, feel free to comment below and I will get back to you!
Let’s start with the foundation of any good sauce, a roux.
A roux is a a thickening agent that adds flavor. Yes you can use something like cornstarch, or arrowroot, but neither of these will add depth of flavor and when making a gravy I suggest adding as much flavor as possible. A classic roux will get the job done.
Make a classic roux
- 2 tbsp. of fat ( butter, chicken fat, bacon fat, beef fat, duck fat, olive oil, coconut oil)
- 2 tbsp. of flour, mixed with 1 tsp of salt and 1/2 tsp of black pepper
- Melt fat and whisk in flour gently. Keep whisking until the mixture turns a golden brown.
Gravy
- After you have made your roux, you will then add one cup of vegetables and meat. For example if you are making a mushroom gravy, I would add in mushrooms and onions. If you are making a Turkey gravy I would add in onions and turkey bits. This is also a great time to add 1 tbsp. of DRIED herbs.
- Cook this for about 3 minutes on medium-low heat.
- Next take your whisk again, start gently mixing everything in your pot and add in 1 1/2 cups stock. Your stock should match the protein you will be serving it over (if you are doing a mushrooms- use vegetable stock, turkey use turkey stock).
- Whisk intensely for about a minute to make sure everything is incorporated.
- Let simmer for about 5 mins. This is the ideal time to add 1 tsp fresh herbs. ( the longer you let it cook the more it will thicken)
- Take off heat and serve warm.
Alright readers I hope this helps you make the best gravy for this holiday season! Tell me how it went below or on social media.
At the end of this week I will be sending out drink pairings for the season. To receive this make sure you sign up for our Insiders List!
All right readers! I am back in the blogging groove and can’t wait to share more with you.
Until next time,
Cheers!