Tired of bland, store-bought gravy? Craving a truly delicious and satisfying sauce to complement your perfectly roasted pork? Then look no further! This recipe for pork roast gravy is incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s a homemade cooking triumph that will impress even the most discerning palates, proving that delicious dishes don't have to be complicated. This quick dinner idea is also a healthy meal option, packed with protein and flavor. Get ready to elevate your pork roast game!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups pork roast drippings (reserved from roasting pan)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of your gravy, so don't rush it!
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Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux. This step is crucial for thickening your gravy. Cook the roux until it's lightly golden brown, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
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Add the Drippings and Broth: Gradually whisk in the reserved pork roast drippings, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent clumping.
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Simmer and Season: Bring the gravy to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Stir in the dried thyme, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Let the gravy simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
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Serve and Enjoy: Your delicious pork roast gravy is ready! Serve it immediately over your roasted pork, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dishes.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork Roast Gravy:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better your ingredients, the better your gravy will taste. Freshly minced garlic and good quality chicken broth will make a noticeable difference.
- Don't burn the roux: Keep a close eye on the roux and stir constantly to prevent burning. A burnt roux will impart a bitter taste to your gravy.
- Adjust the consistency: If your gravy is too thick, add a little more broth. If it's too thin, simmer it for a longer period or make a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) and whisk it in to thicken.
- Strain for a smoother gravy: For an exceptionally smooth gravy, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before serving to remove any lumps or bits of onion.
Variations:
- Mushroom Gravy: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the onions for an earthy twist.
- Herb Gravy: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley for a unique flavor profile.
- Spicy Gravy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 150-200 (depending on ingredients and serving size)
- Protein: Around 5-7 grams
- Fat: Around 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: Around 10-15 grams
This easy recipe delivers a rich and flavorful gravy that perfectly complements your pork roast, making it a truly unforgettable meal. Enjoy your culinary creation and happy cooking!