It’s a crisp Sunday afternoon, and I’ve decided to prepare a classic roast chicken. As the golden-brown skin cracks open to reveal juicy, tender meat, I can hear the sizzle of vegetables roasting nearby. What’s missing?
A rich, comforting homemade gravy to pull everything together. That’s when I reach for my secret weapon: homemade gravy mix. This mix is not just a convenience; it’s a flavor enhancer that transforms simple dishes into something extraordinary.
What is Homemade Gravy Mix?
Homemade gravy mix is a pre-prepared blend of seasonings and thickening agents. It simplifies gravy making by allowing you to whip up a batch of savory sauce in mere minutes.
No more hunting through jars of prepackaged gravy that lack flavor. With this mix, you control the ingredients, ensuring everything is fresh and tailored to your taste preferences.
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The Ingredients
Making this gravy mix is a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons powdered beef or chicken stock base
- 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon plain flour
To Prepare Each Batch:
- 3/4 cup chilled water
- 4-1/2 teaspoons unsalted butter
How to Make Homemade Gravy Mix
Making this gravy mix is simple, and I promise you can do it in less time than it takes to argue with your family over what to have for dinner! Let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Begin by collecting all the ingredients. You won’t want to be mid-recipe scrambling to find that elusive garlic powder, trust me.
Step 2: Measure and Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, powdered stock base, dried thyme, and ground black pepper. Use a whisk to ensure everything is well blended. The beauty of this step is it can feel a bit like a science project. You get to see simple ingredients transform into something far more versatile.
Step 3: Store the Mix
Once you have a nice uniform blend, transfer the mix into an airtight container. This can be a jar, a plastic container, or even a zip-top bag—whatever you have on hand. Shake it up to settle the ingredients. Proper storage keeps the mix fresh and ready when you’re pressed for time.
Notes: Tips for the Best Homemade Gravy Mix
- Customize Your Flavors: Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on what you enjoy. Add herbs like rosemary or oregano for a different twist.
- Keep It Fresh: Ensure your stock powder is not expired. Fresh spices yield the best flavors.
- Batch Up: Make extra and give some away in pretty jars to friends or family. Nothing warms the heart quite like homemade gifts.
- Mind the Salt: If your stock base is salty, adjust the amount of additional salt you add later.
- Versatile Uses: Use this mix not just for gravy; incorporate it into soups and stews for added depth.
Storage Tips
Store the gravy mix in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. It should remain fresh for several months. I often whip up a batch and stick it in my pantry. It’s a game-changer when I want a warm, homemade gravy without much fuss.
Nutrition Information
Homemade Gravy Mix Recipe Nutrition Facts
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Roast Chicken: Serve your homemade gravy over perfectly roasted chicken for a traditional comfort food experience.
- Mashed Potatoes: Drizzle the gravy over fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!
- Biscuits: Pour the gravy over freshly baked biscuits. It’s the ultimate Southern treat.
- Meatloaf: Spoon gravy over slices of meatloaf for extra moisture and flavor, taking this dish up a notch.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: Use the gravy as a sauce for sautéed vegetables. It adds a wonderful taste while giving your veggies an appealing shine.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Homemade Gravy Mix?
- Vegetarian Stock Base: For a vegetarian option, substitute beef or chicken stock with mushroom or vegetable stock base. It brings an earthy richness that vegetarians will love.
- Cornstarch: Use cornstarch instead of flour for a gluten-free gravy mix. Just mix equal parts with cold liquid when cooking.
- Arrowroot Powder: This is another gluten-free thickening agent. It can substitute flour in equal amounts and provides a glossy finish.
- Soy Sauce: If you want a savory twist, a tablespoon of soy sauce can add depth. Just reduce the amount of salt in your mix.
- Herb Blends: Try using Italian seasoning or Cajun spice blends instead of individual herbs. This can give your gravy a unique character.
Conclusion
Homemade gravy mix is a staple that every home cook should have in their kitchen arsenal. It’s simple to make, customizable, and brings immense flavor to your meals.
Whether you’re draping it over a cozy roast chicken or a pile of mashed potatoes, this mix enhances any dish with its homestyle goodness.
Embrace the ease and satisfaction of making your gravies from scratch, and share this journey with friends and family.
Who knew that a small mix could yield such big flavors? Enjoy your cooking, and remember—there’s no shortage of flavor in a well-made gravy!
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Homemade Gravy Mix Recipe – Comfort Food Meals
Description
It’s a crisp Sunday afternoon, and I’ve decided to prepare a classic roast chicken. As the golden-brown skin cracks open to reveal juicy, tender meat, I can hear the sizzle of vegetables roasting nearby. What’s missing?
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Making this gravy mix is simple, and I promise you can do it in less time than it takes to argue with your family over what to have for dinner! Let's break it down step by step.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
-
Begin by collecting all the ingredients. You won’t want to be mid-recipe scrambling to find that elusive garlic powder, trust me.
Step 2: Measure and Mix Dry Ingredients
-
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, powdered stock base, dried thyme, and ground black pepper. Use a whisk to ensure everything is well blended. The beauty of this step is it can feel a bit like a science project. You get to see simple ingredients transform into something far more versatile.
Step 3: Store the Mix
-
Once you have a nice uniform blend, transfer the mix into an airtight container. This can be a jar, a plastic container, or even a zip-top bag—whatever you have on hand. Shake it up to settle the ingredients. Proper storage keeps the mix fresh and ready when you're pressed for time.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 23
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 19kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.4g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.2g1%
- Cholesterol 1mg1%
- Sodium 17mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 3g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Customize Your Flavors: Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on what you enjoy. Add herbs like rosemary or oregano for a different twist.
- Keep It Fresh: Ensure your stock powder is not expired. Fresh spices yield the best flavors.
- Batch Up: Make extra and give some away in pretty jars to friends or family. Nothing warms the heart quite like homemade gifts.
- Mind the Salt: If your stock base is salty, adjust the amount of additional salt you add later.
Versatile Uses: Use this mix not just for gravy; incorporate it into soups and stews for added depth.
