Are you looking for the perfect finishing touch to your holiday ham? Or maybe you're craving a delicious, comforting gravy to pair with your leftover ham? Look no further! This easy gravy recipe is guaranteed to elevate your ham dinner to the next level. Forget those bland, instant mixes; this homemade gravy is incredibly flavorful, rich, and surprisingly simple to make. Get ready to experience gravy perfection!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is designed to be quick, easy, and utilizes ingredients you likely already have on hand.
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups ham stock (see instructions below for making this easily!)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (for extra richness)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, adds a delightful tang)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Making the Ham Stock (The Secret Weapon):
Don't worry, making your ham stock is easier than you think! It's the key to a truly flavorful gravy. While your ham is baking or reheating, simply:
- Place the ham bone (after removing the meat) and any ham drippings from the baking pan into a medium saucepan.
- Add about 4 cups of water to the saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more intense the flavor!
- Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids. You now have delicious homemade ham stock, ready for your gravy!
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Gravy:
- Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Make a roux: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This is your roux, the base of your gravy. Don't let it brown too much; a light golden color is ideal.
- Gradually whisk in the ham stock: Slowly pour the warm ham stock into the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the gravy is smooth and thickened.
- Stir in the cream (optional): If using, stir in the heavy cream or milk. This adds richness and creaminess.
- Season and simmer: Season with Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Pour your delicious homemade gravy over your ham and enjoy! Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of elegance.
Cooking Tips for Gravy Success:
- Don't rush the roux: Take your time to make the roux; this step is crucial for a smooth, lump-free gravy. Whisk constantly!
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard to match your preferences.
- Thicker gravy? If your gravy is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes, or whisk in a little more flour mixed with a bit of cold water to thicken it.
- Too thick? If your gravy is too thick, add a little more ham stock or water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Delicious Variations:
- Maple-Dijon Gravy: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup for a sweet and savory twist.
- Mushroom Gravy: Sauté some sliced mushrooms before adding the flour to the butter, for an earthy, umami flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving - approximate):
- Calories: Around 150-200 (depending on the amount of cream used)
- Fat: Around 10-15g
- Protein: Around 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: Around 10-15g
This recipe is a great addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's perfect for quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking, offering a delicious dish that everyone will love. It's certainly one of the best recipes for a truly satisfying and flavorful gravy. Enjoy!