The Best Methods for Making Gravy: Beyond Just Water and Flour

A delicious gravy elevates any meal, especially those boosted by rich pan drippings. While many believe a simple combination of water and flour will suffice, there are indeed better ways to achieve the most flavorful and velvety gravy. Let's explore the best methods and debunk some common myths.

Debunking the Myth: Water and Flour Gravy

Creating gravy with just water and flour, also known as slurry, can work, but it often falls short in terms of flavor and texture. The common outcome is a pasty, glue-like consistency that lacks the depth and complexity a skilled cook might desire. For example, if you’re making a roast and decide to use the pan drippings, you'll need more than just flour and water to truly capture the flavorful bits that stick to the sides of the pan.

Process: Begin by scraping the browned bits off the sides of the pan. Use hot water to keep the sides moist and continue scraping until all the flavorful bits are removed. Strain the mixture into a saucepan, season as usual, and then blend to smooth out any lumps. Carefully whisk in the flour and water mixture, ensuring no lumps form, and let it thicken and reduce slightly.

Simple Vegan Gravy Recipe

Vegetarians and vegans can still enjoy a delicious gravy without relying on animal products. A straightforward vegan gravy can be made using just water, flour, oil, and perhaps a few vegetables to enhance the flavor.

Ingredients: Onions, oil (or butter), salt, pepper, hot water

Steps:

Cook finely chopped onions in oil or butter until they are browned and aromatic. Season with salt and pepper. Slowly add a little water and blend to a smooth consistency with a hand blender.

This method still requires some attention to detail, but it yields a rich, flavorful sauce that complements herbivorous meals perfectly.

The Professional Gravy Recipe

For those aiming for perfection, a conventional roux-based gravy is hard to beat. A roux involves cooking oil and flour to develop a rich, nutty flavor and a thick base that can be customized to suit various liquid ingredients.

Roux: Equal parts of butter and flour. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then add the flour and whisk until smooth. Stir for 3 to 5 minutes to dissipate the raw flour taste.

Adding Liquid: Gradually add your chosen liquid (milk for white gravies, broth for chicken or beef, or juice from cooked meats or veggies) in small amounts, constantly stirring to maintain a smooth, thick mixture.

Finishing: Increase the heat to medium-high and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens, usually taking about 10 minutes.

Conclusion

While using just water and flour for gravy might work in a pinch, it often misses the mark in terms of flavor and texture. With a few simple steps and techniques, you can create a rich, flavorful gravy that enhances any meal. Whether you're making a roux-based gravy or a simpler vegan version, take the time to bring out the best in your culinary creations.

By keeping these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to mastering the art of making the perfect gravy.