Perfect Gravy – Step-by-Step Guide

Enhance your sauce preparation skills with our guide on gravy making techniques. Learn how to make delicious gravy from meat juices using simple steps. Our step-by-step instructions ensure you get the most out of your meat juices, making your gravy rich and flavorful every time.

---

How to Make Gravy

Equipment Needed:

• Flameproof roasting tray (preferably the same one you cooked your meat in)
• Jug
• Spoon
• Medium-sized bowl
• Tablespoon
• Measuring jug
• Wooden spoon
• Serving jug

Step-by-Step Instructions for Gravy Making Techniques:

1. Prepare the Roasting Juices: Rest your roasted meat while you make the gravy. Carefully pour the roasting juices from the meat pan into a jug and leave to stand for 1 minute. The fat will rise to the surface, leaving the darker, more flavorful juices at the bottom.
2. Skim the Fat: Spoon out the fat into a bowl. Skimming the fat produces a clearer liquid and allows the full flavor of the meat juices to come through without a fatty or bitter aftertaste.
3. Make the Roux: Put the same roasting pan that the meat was cooked in on the hob over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of the meat fat that you skimmed off the top back into the pan. Stir in 1 tablespoon of plain flour until all combined and slightly browned, which should take around 2 minutes. This is your roux, which thickens the gravy and should be the consistency of a smooth paste.
4. Add Meat Juices: Add the skimmed meat juices, stirring with a wooden spoon to ensure a smooth consistency and to scrape off any caramelized meat or vegetables stuck to the bottom of the roasting pan, as these add great flavor and depth.
5. Add Stock: Gradually pour in 1 pint of good quality meat stock, stirring as you go. Bring to the boil, then simmer for 10 minutes, stirring regularly with a wooden spoon to prevent lumps.
6. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper and serve piping hot.

Making gravy from meat juices is a simple yet essential method that results in a delicious sauce. Therefore, knowing how to make gravy properly is crucial to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. With these gravy making techniques, you can easily prepare rich and flavorful gravy for any roast meat.

Helpful Hint:

• For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce to the gravy while it simmers.

Alternative Uses for Gravy:

• Gravy for Potatoes: Use the gravy to pour over mashed or roasted potatoes.
• Gravy for Pies: Add the gravy to meat pies for extra moisture and flavor.
• Gravy for Stews: Incorporate the gravy into stews for a richer taste.