Are you tired of lumpy, flavorless gravy? Do you dream of that rich, savory sauce that elevates your roast chicken or mashed potatoes to another level? Then you’ve come to the right place! Today, we're making Ina Garten's incredibly easy and incredibly delicious pan gravy – a recipe so good, it's practically foolproof. This homemade gravy is the perfect addition to your Sunday roast or a quick weeknight dinner, proving that delicious food doesn't have to be complicated. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cups chicken broth (or beef broth for a richer flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or rosemary)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Pan Drippings
Start with the pan you used to roast your chicken or meat. Make sure there are good browned bits stuck to the bottom – these are pure flavor gold! Pour out any excess fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons behind. This fat will help create a richer, more flavorful gravy.
Step 2: Making the Roux
Place the pan over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This is called a roux, and it's the base of your amazing gravy. Don't let it brown too much; a light golden color is perfect.
Step 3: Building the Gravy
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Finishing Touches (Optional)
Stir in your fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Tips for the Best Pan Gravy:
- Don't burn the roux: Keep the heat at medium and stir constantly to prevent burning and lumps.
- Use good quality broth: The flavor of your broth directly impacts the flavor of your gravy. Homemade broth is best, but store-bought low-sodium broth works well too.
- Adjust the thickness: If your gravy is too thick, add a little more broth. If it's too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes.
- Strain for a smoother gravy: For an extra-smooth gravy, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.
Variations:
- Mushroom Gravy: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the butter before adding the flour for an earthy twist.
- Beef Gravy: Simply substitute beef broth for chicken broth and use the pan drippings from a roast beef.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on broth and added ingredients)
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Protein: Approximately 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This Barefoot Contessa-inspired pan gravy is a simple yet elegant addition to any meal. It’s a quick dinner idea that’s both healthy and delicious, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!