# Traditional Gravy Recipe: An Indispensable Delight
This traditional gravy recipe is decadent, velvety, and brimming with taste from authentic pan drippings. With just flour, drippings or broth, and a handful of seasonings, you can create a flavorful gravy in no time.
## Taste Characteristics
– **Velvety and Flavorful**: The gravy features a deep roasted taste stemming from the browned flour and pan drippings.
## Suggested Tools
– **Gravy Fat Separator**: This device makes it easier to extract fat from the juices, ensuring a well-balanced gravy.
## Preparation Tip
– **Resting Drippings**: Allowing the drippings to settle aids in separating the fat and juices, resulting in a more harmonious gravy.
## Freezing Advice
– **Storage**: Chilled gravy can be kept in a freezer-safe container for as long as 3 months. Whisk while warming to bring back its smooth consistency.
## Traditional Gravy Components
1. **Fat**: The liquefied fat from cooked meats, known as drippings or fond, contributes immense flavor. Scrape the delicious bits from the pan for added richness.
2. **Flour**: This component thickens the gravy by forming a roux with the fat drippings. Cooking it until golden removes any raw taste.
3. **Broth**: Chicken, beef, or turkey broth, mixed with pan drippings, broadens the gravy and intensifies its taste. Choose low or no-salt broth if using seasoned poultry.
4. **Seasonings**: A homemade poultry seasoning is crucial. Incorporating a dash of dried rosemary and roughly ½ teaspoon of onion powder can enhance the flavor.
## Delicious Variations
– Boost your gravy with sautéed mushrooms or sautéed onions for extra flavor.
– Add a browning sauce, like Kitchen Bouquet, for a darker hue and richer taste.
– If drippings are unavailable, you can create gravy using solely butter or a blend of melted butter and oil, resulting in a creamier flavor.
## Steps to Prepare Gravy
1. Pour leftover fat drippings into a saucepan.
2. Mix in the flour and seasonings.
3. Gradually whisk in the broth until reaching the desired thickness.
Season as needed before serving.
### Advice for Smooth Gravy
– Slowly incorporate the broth or drippings while whisking to avoid lumps.
– Modify thickness while warm; add more broth to thin out or create a slurry to thicken.
## Storage Tips
– **Refrigeration**: Keep leftover gravy in a covered container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop, whisking and adding broth if necessary.
– **Freezing**: Divide gravy into zippered bags for up to one month. Thaw in a saucepan over low heat and adjust seasoning if necessary.
### Final Thoughts
This traditional gravy recipe is an essential addition to any holiday feast or family gathering. Its rich taste and creamy consistency make it the ideal complement to meats, potatoes, and beyond. Savor your homemade gravy, and remember to leave a rating and feedback!