Make-Ahead Gravy: Elevate Your Meals with Convenient, Homemade Goodness

Make-Ahead Your Way: Gravy

Gravy is a delicious and versatile sauce that can elevate any meal. Whether you're serving it with roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, or biscuits, a rich and flavorful gravy can make all the difference. But let's be honest, making gravy from scratch can be time-consuming and stressful, especially when you're short on time. That's where our make-ahead gravy method comes in handy.

By following our simple steps, you can prepare your gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you're ready to serve. This way, you can enjoy the convenience of having homemade gravy on hand without the hassle of last-minute preparation.

Ingredients You'll Need:

* 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
* 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 4 cups chicken or beef broth
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
* Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions for Making-Ahead Gravy:

1. Create a Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and continue whisking until the mixture turns golden brown. This is called a roux, which will give your gravy its thickness and flavor.
2. Add Liquid: Gradually whisk in the chicken or beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
3. Season to Taste: Add the dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
4. Allow to Cool: Remove the gravy from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.

Storage Options:

Refrigerator: Store the gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the gravy over low heat until warmed through.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the gravy in freezer-safe containers or Ziploc bags for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the gravy overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat as directed above.

Serving Suggestions:

Once your gravy is reheated, it's ready to be enjoyed! Here are a few suggestions for serving your make-ahead gravy:

* Roasted chicken or turkey
* Mashed or roasted potatoes
* Meatloaf
* Biscuits or cornbread
* Shepherd's pie

Tips for Perfect Gravy:

* Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
* Don't overcook the roux. It should be a light golden brown color.
* If your gravy is too thick, whisk in a little more broth. If it's too thin, simmer for a few minutes longer.
* Add a touch of acidity, such as a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of red wine, to balance the richness of the gravy.

By following these simple steps, you can make-ahead your gravy with ease and enjoy the convenience of having homemade gravy on hand whenever you need it.