Brown gravy is a rich, savory sauce that perfectly complements a variety of dishes, from mashed potatoes and roast meats to casseroles and vegetables. This homemade brown gravy recipe is easy to prepare and uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this recipe will add a delicious finishing touch to your meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of beef broth (or substitute with chicken or vegetable broth for a different flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce (optional, for added depth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon of soy sauce (optional, for color and umami flavor)
Method
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow it to bubble gently, but be careful not to let it burn.
- Make the Roux: Add the all-purpose flour to the melted butter, stirring constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon. Cook the mixture for about 2-3 minutes, or until it turns a light brown color. This step is crucial as it forms the base of the gravy and gives it that signature brown color and rich flavor.
- Add the Broth: Gradually pour in the beef broth, continuing to stir or whisk the mixture to prevent lumps from forming. Once all the broth is added, bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Season the Gravy: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and soy sauce (if using). Allow the gravy to simmer for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the gravy and add salt and pepper as needed. If the gravy is too thick, you can thin it out with a little more broth or water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens.
- Serve: Once the gravy has reached the desired consistency and flavor, remove it from the heat. Serve immediately over your favorite dishes.
Variations & Tips
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this brown gravy. You can also add a splash of soy sauce or tamari to enhance the umami flavor.
- Mushroom Gravy: Add finely chopped mushrooms to the butter when making the roux. Cook until the mushrooms are softened before adding the flour. This will give the gravy a deep, earthy flavor.
- Onion Gravy: Sauté finely chopped onions in the butter until they are soft and caramelized before adding the flour. This variation adds a sweet and savory depth to the gravy.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare brown gravy in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a little broth or water to thin it if necessary.
- Freezing: Brown gravy freezes well. Pour the cooled gravy into an airtight container or freezer bag, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Brown gravy is a versatile and essential component of many comfort foods. By mastering this simple recipe, you can enhance the flavor of your dishes and impress your family and friends. With just a few basic ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a delicious gravy that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic version or try out some of the suggested variations, this brown gravy recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!