How to Make Gravy: A Step-by-Step Guide with Traditional, Vegan, and More Recipes

I. Introduction

Gravy is a classic sauce that has been around for a long time. It is one of the most popular accompaniments to a wide range of dishes, from mashed potatoes to roasted meats. But despite its popularity, gravy can be notoriously difficult to make. This is why we have put together this article, which aims to provide you with a step-by-step guide to making perfect gravy every time, along with some delicious recipes and tips to help you achieve this.

II. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Gravy from Scratch

The most important aspects of making perfect gravy are – choosing the right ingredients and following the correct procedure. Here is a step-by-step guide to making gravy that will have your guests clamoring for seconds:

Essential Ingredients:

• Meat drippings or fat (butter or oil)
• All-purpose flour
• Stock (beef, chicken, vegetable)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Process for Making Gravy:

1. After roasting your meat, pour off the fat into a measuring cup.
2. Place a saucepan over medium heat and add the fat. If the meat drippings are not enough, supplement with oil or butter.
3. Add an equal amount of flour to the pan and mix it with the fat. Stir continuously until it becomes brown and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add your stock to the pan slowly while continuing to stir. The mixture will thicken, so add stock as needed until the desired consistency is achieved.
5. Season with salt and black pepper (add other seasonings as needed) and stir until well combined.
6. Simmer the gravy for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Once the gravy reaches your desired consistency and seasoning, remove it from the heat and let it cool.

Tips and Tricks:

• For a richer gravy, use the drippings from a roasted meat.
• Use a wire whisk to mix the flour with the drippings for a smoother texture.
• When adding the stock, add it little by little to avoid creating lumps.
• If the gravy is too thick, thin it out by adding more stock or water.
• To add depth to flavor, include herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, sage, or garlic powder.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Not using enough fat or flour can lead to a runny gravy.
• Adding too much salt can ruin the gravy. Be sure to taste the gravy before adding more salt.
• Not stirring the gravy often enough can cause lumps to form.
• Letting the gravy boil for too long can cause it to become too thick and lose flavor.

III. Traditional Gravy Recipes

There are many traditional gravies to choose from, and each one has a unique flavor and texture. Here are three classic recipes that you can try:

1. Béchamel Gravy

This French classic is a rich, creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with roasted meats and vegetables. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, salt, and nutmeg (if using).
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes, whisking occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
5. If the sauce is too thick, whisk in a little more milk.
6. Remove from heat and serve over your favorite dishes.

2. Mushroom Gravy

This gravy is a fan favorite and vegetarian-friendly. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups sliced mushrooms
• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken stock
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the butter or oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they have released their liquid and browned (about 5 minutes).
3. Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir for about a minute.
4. Add the stock, whisking until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the gravy for a few minutes. If it’s too thick, thin it out by adding more stock or water.
7. Remove from heat and serve over your favorite dishes.

3. Onion Gravy

This simple gravy is a staple in British cuisine and is especially popular alongside roast dinners and mashed potatoes.

Ingredients:

• 2 large onions, sliced
• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken or beef stock
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until caramelized (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir for a minute or two.
4. Gradually whisk in the stock until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the gravy for a few minutes. If it is too thick, thin it out by adding more stock or water.
7. Remove from heat and serve over your favorite dishes.

Tips and Tricks for Mastering Traditional Gravy Recipes:

• Use quality and fresh ingredients to ensure a depth of flavor
• Stir the sauce frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and forming lumps.
• Adjust the consistency of the gravy by adding more or less stock or other ingredients as needed.
• Customize the seasoning and flavor to your preference.

IV. Tips and Tricks for Perfecting Your Gravy Skills

Whether you’re making traditional gravies or experimenting with new recipes, these tips and tricks will help you perfect your gravy-making skills:

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking meat – this results in meat that is steamed rather than roasted, which can lead to a lack of drippings.
• Not whisking the flour and fat mixture enough can create lumps, which can be difficult to get rid of later in the process.
• If you find that your gravy is too thin, add a bit more flour while stirring continuously.
• If your gravy lacks flavor, try adding some acid, such as vinegar or lemon juice, or sugar to balance out the flavors.

Tips and Tricks for Thickening Gravy, Adjusting Seasoning, and Adding Extra Flavor:

• To thicken gravy without adding extra flour or cornstarch, add a small amount of mashed potatoes or breadcrumbs to the gravy. Add a little at a time and whisk until your desired thickness is reached.
• Season to taste; taste the gravy as you add ingredients, so you can appropriately adjust the flavor.
• Adding some umami-rich ingredients to your gravy, such as miso paste or Worcestershire sauce, can help develop the flavors further.
• Adding cream or cheese is a great way to give your gravy some richness and add depth to its flavor.

Advice for Making the Best Gravy Possible:

• Don’t rush the process. Take the time to follow the instructions and do it right.
• Use fresh and quality ingredients.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment; try new ingredients and techniques.
• Remember that practice makes perfect.

V. Vegan and Vegetarian Gravy Recipes

If you’re looking for a vegan or vegetarian option, you’ll be happy to know that you can make delicious and flavorful gravies without any meat drippings. Here are three recipes that you can try:

1. Onion Mushroom Gravy (Vegan)

Ingredients:

• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cups vegetable stock
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and mushrooms and sauté until tender (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir for about 2 minutes.
5. Gradually add the vegetable stock, whisking continuously until the gravy thickens.
6. Stir in the soy sauce and black pepper.
7. Simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Remove from heat and serve over your favorite dishes.

2. Vegan Miso Gravy

This Japanese-inspired miso gravy has a rich, umami flavor that complements roasted vegetables and meats well.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups vegetable stock
• 2 tbsp white miso paste
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and whisk for about a minute.
4. Add the vegetable stock and miso paste, whisking continuously until well combined.
5. Bring the gravy to a simmer and let it cook until it thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Remove from heat and serve over your favorite dishes.

3. Vegetarian Red Wine Gravy

This rich and flavorful gravy is perfect for a vegetarian version of the classic Sunday roast or chicken dinner.