What is the recipe for making delicious gravy using stock instead of drippings?

Gravy is often hailed as the crowning glory of many dishes, elevating everything from roasted meats to mashed potatoes. Traditionally, gravy is made using the drippings left behind after roasting meat, which imparts a rich, deep flavor. However, not everyone has the luxury of drippings, whether because they’re cooking a vegetarian dish, are working with lean meats, or simply prefer a different approach. Fortunately, stock offers a versatile and flavorful alternative for making delicious gravy. This guide will walk you through a foolproof recipe for creating savory gravy using stock.

Ingredients

Stock: 2 cups (chicken, beef, vegetable, or any flavor of your choice)

Butter: 4 tablespoons

All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup

Onion: 1 small, finely chopped

Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (optional)

Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon (optional for depth)

Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon (optional for umami flavor)

Salt and Pepper: to taste

Fresh Herbs: Thyme or rosemary, finely chopped (optional for added flavor)

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Using homemade or high-quality store-bought stock will yield the best results. If you’re using store-bought stock, opt for a low-sodium variety to control the salt content of your gravy.

2. Create a Roux

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, gradually add the flour, whisking continuously to create a smooth paste. This mixture, known as a roux, will thicken the gravy.

Continue to cook the roux for about 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden color. This process helps eliminate the raw flour taste and adds a nutty flavor to the gravy.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

In a separate skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. If you’re using garlic, add it to the pan in the last minute of cooking. This step enhances the depth of flavor in your gravy.

You can also add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary at this stage if you prefer a herby note.

4. Incorporate the Stock

Slowly whisk the stock into the roux, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth. This is where the magic happens—transforming the roux into a velvety gravy.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking frequently. Allow it to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches your desired thickness. If the gravy is too thick, you can thin it with a little more stock or water.

5. Add Depth of Flavor

For an extra layer of flavor, you can stir in Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce. These ingredients provide a depth of umami and complexity to the gravy. Taste your gravy and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

6. Strain and Serve

If you’ve used aromatics like onions or garlic, you might want to strain the gravy to ensure a smooth consistency. Simply pour the gravy through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean saucepan or serving dish.

7. Garnish and Enjoy

Garnish your gravy with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. Serve it hot over your favorite dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or meatloaf.

Tips for Success

Consistency: If your gravy is too thin, continue to simmer until it thickens. If too thick, add a bit more stock or water.

Flavor Adjustments: Experiment with different types of stock and seasonings to suit your taste preferences. For instance, vegetable stock can be a great base for a vegetarian gravy, while beef stock is ideal for richer, meatier flavors.

Make Ahead: Gravy can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. Reheat gently and whisk before serving.

Conclusion

Making gravy with stock instead of drippings is not only a practical alternative but also a way to create a rich and flavorful sauce that complements a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re cooking a vegetarian feast or simply don’t have drippings on hand, this recipe will guide you to a perfect, savory gravy every time. With just a few ingredients and some basic techniques, you can whip up a delicious gravy that’s sure to impress at any meal.

So next time you’re in the kitchen, remember that a flavorful gravy is just a stock away!