Ah, the art of gravy—simple yet, in its own way, a grand culinary symphony. I remember my grandmother’s kitchen, the room awash with the aroma of simmering broths and spices, a sanctuary of warmth on brisk autumn days. This beef gravy recipe captures that essence without the fuss of drippings, a nod to those comforting meals that seem to hug you from the inside out.
Steps
- Heat the beef broth in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat until it begins to boil. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the cold water with the cornstarch until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
- Gradually pour the cornstarch mixture into the boiling beef broth, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir continuously until the gravy has thickened.
- Season the gravy with salt and pepper to your taste preference. Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning if necessary before serving.
- Serve the hot gravy over meats, potatoes, or any other dish you prefer.
Ingredients
- 2 cups beef broth (or beef drippings from a roast)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- ¼ cup cold water
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 60 kcal | Carbohydrates: 8 g | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 4 g | Saturated Fat: 4 g | Sodium: 1792 mg | Potassium: 352 mg | Fiber: 4 g | Sugar: 4 g | Vitamin C: 4 mg | Calcium: 40 mg | Iron: 4 mg
FAQ
- Can I use beef drippings instead of beef broth in this gravy recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute beef drippings for the beef broth. Just save the drippings from a beef roast, and follow the recipe as it is.
- What dishes pair well with beef broth brown gravy?
- This gravy is a perfect match for a variety of dishes, including mashed potatoes, turkey, rolls, and even as a topping for baked potatoes or meatball subs.
- How can I make this gravy suitable for a larger group?
- The recipe can easily be doubled or tripled. Simply use a larger saucepan and adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly to serve more people.
- Is it possible to make this gravy in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the gravy ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. It’s a convenient option, especially during busy holiday gatherings.
- What can I do if my gravy turns out too salty?
- If your gravy is too salty, you can try diluting it with a small amount of water or unsalted broth. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary to achieve the desired flavor.
Tips
- Use Beef Drippings for Extra Flavor: If you have beef drippings from a roast, substitute them for the beef broth in the recipe. This will enhance the richness and depth of the gravy’s flavor.
- Customize Seasoning to Your Taste: After incorporating the cornstarch mixture into the broth, taste the gravy and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. This ensures the gravy complements your meal perfectly.
- Consider Adding Worcestershire Sauce: Although optional, Worcestershire sauce adds an extra layer of savory depth to the gravy. If using low-sodium broth, consider adding a tablespoon for a flavor boost.
- Double or Triple the Recipe for Larger Gatherings: This recipe yields approximately 2 cups of gravy, but you can easily increase the quantities to accommodate larger groups. Just use a bigger saucepan for even cooking.
Equipment
- Medium Saucepan – Essential for boiling the beef broth and mixing in other ingredients.
- Whisk – Needed to mix the cold water and cornstarch until dissolved.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – To accurately measure the ingredients such as beef broth, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and cornstarch.
