Gravy is a versatile and flavorful sauce that can elevate any dish it accompanies. Whether you are enjoying a juicy roast, a tender steak, or a delightful Thanksgiving turkey, a good gravy can make all the difference. Many people rely on instant gravy mixes or store-bought options, but nothing compares to homemade gravy made from scratch. In this article, we will share with you a must-try recipe for making savory and flavorful gravy using slow cooker juices. Let’s dive right in!
The Magic of Slow Cooker Juices
Why Choose Slow Cooker Juices?
When it comes to making gravy, the juices left behind after slow cooking can be a game-changer. Slow cookers work their magic by trapping the flavors and juices of the ingredients, creating a rich and concentrated liquid. These juices are infused with all the wonderful aromatic compounds released during the slow cooking process, making them ideal for creating a delicious gravy.
The Key Ingredients
To get started, you will need the following key ingredients for your slow cooker gravy:
1. Slow cooker juices: Use the juices remaining in your slow cooker after cooking your desired protein, such as a roast or a whole chicken.
2. Fat: You will need about 3 tablespoons of fat, which can be obtained from the drippings of the cooked meat or added butter or oil.
3. All-purpose flour: About 3 tablespoons of flour will be required to thicken the gravy and give it that perfect consistency.
4. Stock or broth: To enhance the flavor and depth of your gravy, add about 1 cup of chicken or beef stock depending on your preferences.
5. Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices can be added to season the gravy to your liking.
The Step-by-Step Process
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients let’s walk through the step-by-step process of making gravy using slow cooker juices:
1. After the protein is cooked in the slow cooker, remove it from the cooker and set it aside to rest. This will allow the juices to settle and make it easier to separate them from the fat.
2. Skim the Fat: Using a spoon or a fat separator, carefully remove the fat from the top of the slow cooker juices. You want to extract the flavorful juices while minimizing the fat content in your gravy.
3. Heat the Fat: In a large saucepan or skillet, heat the extracted fat over medium heat. If you don’t have enough fat from the slow cooker, you can add butter or oil to make up the difference.
4. Add Flour: Once the fat has melted and is hot, sprinkle the flour over it. Stir constantly to combine the flour and fat, creating a smooth mixture known as a roux. Cook the roux for about 2 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
5. Slowly Add Stock: Gradually pour the stock or broth into the saucepan, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. This will also help the gravy thicken evenly.
6. Incorporate Juices: Next, slowly incorporate the slow cooker juices into the saucepan while stirring continuously. This will infuse your gravy with all the delicious flavors locked within the savory slow cooker juices.
7. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the gravy to simmer for about 5-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
8. Season to Perfection: Finally, season your gravy with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed until the gravy is perfectly balanced and flavorful.
Enjoying Your Homemade Gravy
Now that you have successfully made homemade gravy using slow cooker juices, it’s time to savor its delightful flavors. Pour the gravy into a gravy boat or a serving bowl, ready to be drizzled over your favorite dishes. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, mashed potatoes, biscuits, or even as a dipping sauce for crusty bread.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Gravy
To ensure your gravy turns out perfect every time, here are some valuable tips and tricks:
1. Fat Separation: If you don’t have a fat separator, you can let the slow cooker juices cool and place them in the refrigerator. The fat will solidify on top, making it easier to remove.
2. Smooth Consistency: To achieve a smooth consistency without any lumps in your gravy, it is essential to whisk continuously while adding the stock and slow cooker juices.
3. Adjusting Consistency: If your gravy turns out too thick, simply add a little more stock to thin it out. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, you can mix some flour with water to create a slurry and gradually add it to the simmering gravy, allowing it to thicken.
4. Enhancing Flavors: Feel free to experiment with additional flavors by adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce, a dollop of Dijon mustard, or a dash of balsamic vinegar. These subtle additions can take your gravy to a whole new level.
5. Make-ahead Gravy: If you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing for a holiday feast, you can make the gravy in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days, then reheat it gently on the stovetop when needed. Add a little extra stock if the gravy thickens too much after refrigeration.
Homemade Gravy Worth the Extra Effort
Homemade gravy made from slow cooker juices is truly a game-changer. The depth of flavor and richness achieved from utilizing these concentrated savory liquids cannot be replicated with instant mixes or store-bought options. By following this must-try recipe and incorporating the step-by-step process, you can create a delectable gravy that will enhance your dishes and impress your family and friends. So, next time you slow cook a mouth-watering roast or a succulent chicken, remember to save those valuable juices for the ultimate homemade gravy experience!