How to Make Gravy

Gravy has always been a part of the regional cuisines in many parts of the world. Traditionally, it is prepared as thick sauces, using the drippings and juices derived from cooking meat. There are many types of gravy, but, meat-based ones are the most common and popular among them. Gravy can be prepared from vegetable drippings too. The other types include chocolate gravy, egg gravy, cream gravy, tomato gravy and onion gravy.

Gravy made from roasted turkey drippings is an integral part of Thanksgiving feasts. However, use of gravy is not limited to Thanksgiving only. Different types of gravies are used with a wide range of dishes. While homemade gravy is the most preferred one, most people think that it is difficult to prepare it and so, they resort to ready-made ones or those made from gravy granules.

How to Make Gravy From Drippings

One of the traditional and best gravies is made from pan drippings. In order to prepare two cups of gravy, you need two tablespoons each of pan drippings and flour. Apart from that, two cups of stock or bouillon is also needed. This is a simple and easy way to make gravy. All you have to do is to drain the excess fat from the roasting pan (after removing the roasted meat), if there is any. If there is very little fat, you may add some butter to the pan.

The next step is to heat the pan on the stove top, over medium heat. As the pan juices come to a boil, add the flour and combine well. Cook the mixture on low heat. Make sure to stir it continuously, so that the mixture does not get burned. As it turns brown in color, add the liquid (stock or bouillon) and cook over low heat. Stir it continuously, till it boils. You have to cook the mixture over low heat for another two to three minutes, or till it thickens. Add seasonings like salt and pepper and serve. You may also prepare this gravy in a microwave.

Tips to Make Gravy for Biscuits

Sausage gravy is widely used with biscuits. In order to prepare sausage gravy, you need half to one cup of sausage (fatty ones are best), one cup milk and three tablespoons of flour. Start with cooking the sausage in a heavy skillet. Once cooked, remove the sausage, leaving some bits and two to three tablespoons of grease on the skillet. Add the flour to the skillet and combine well with the grease on the skillet, over medium heat. It will take around five minutes for the flour to get browned. After that, add the milk and stir continuously for another three to four minutes or till the gravy thickens. Add salt and pepper and serve. This is one of the best way to make gravy for biscuits and mashed potatoes.

So, from now on, you can prepare homemade gravy, instead of using the store-bought ones. Try the above said recipes and enjoy tasty, lump-free and flavorful dish.