Grandma’s Sunday Dinner Gravy Recipe

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Grandma’s Sunday Dinner Gravy Recipe

Introduction:

Growing up, Sundays at my grandma’s house were nothing short of magical. The house was filled with the smells of simmering stews, roast meats, and the comforting scent of her secret weapon—gravy. She always said, “The secret to any good meal is the gravy.” It was the finishing touch that brought everything together, turning a simple meal into something memorable. This recipe takes me right back to those Sunday dinners, and I’m so excited to share it with you.

Ingredients:

  • For the Gravy:
    • 2 tbsp butter
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
    • 2 cups beef or chicken broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
    • 1 cup of the drippings from your roast (beef, turkey, chicken, whatever you’ve got!)
    • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
    • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
    • 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
    • 1/2 tsp rosemary (optional)
    • 1 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for richness)
  • Optional Garnishes:
    • Chopped parsley
    • Fresh ground pepper

Method:

  1. Make the Roux:
    • In a large saucepan or skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onions and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and golden brown. This will add a rich flavor to the base of your gravy.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Create the Gravy Base:
    • Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for about 2-3 minutes to make a roux (this is the base that will thicken the gravy). Be careful not to let it brown too much—it should just form a golden paste.
  3. Add the Broth:
    • Gradually pour in the broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. The mixture will start to thicken.
  4. Add the Flavor:
    • Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, and rosemary (if using). Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. If the gravy feels too thick, you can add a little more broth to reach your desired consistency.
  5. Simmer and Finish:
    • Let the gravy simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gives the flavors time to meld together and the gravy time to thicken.
    • If you’re using drippings from a roast, add them in now. They’ll infuse the gravy with even more depth and flavor.
  6. Add Cream (Optional):
    • If you want a creamier, richer gravy, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream toward the end of cooking. This step is optional but highly recommended for that luxurious mouthfeel.
  7. Serve:
    • Pour the gravy over your roast, mashed potatoes, or whatever your heart desires. It’s the ultimate comfort food!

History & Formation:

Gravy has been a staple in many cultures for centuries, with its roots stretching back to ancient times when sauces and broths were used to add flavor and moisture to roasted meats. In the British culinary tradition, which my grandma’s recipe draws heavily from, gravy was traditionally made from the pan drippings of a roast and thickened with flour to create a rich, flavorful sauce.

However, each family has its own version. Some add wine, others vinegar, and of course, the herbs and seasonings vary from region to region. My grandma’s recipe has been passed down through generations, evolving with each cook, but always holding onto that essential ingredient: love. For her, it wasn’t just about the taste—it was about the memories made around the table, the conversations shared, and the warmth of family.

Conclusion:

This gravy is more than just a recipe; it’s a connection to a time and place where food brought everyone together. Whether you’re serving it over mashed potatoes, meatloaf, or a Sunday roast, this gravy will elevate your meal and make it feel like home. It’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or just a cozy Sunday dinner with loved ones. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to pass down, just like grandma did, so future generations can experience the joy of a good, hearty meal.

Lovers of this Gravy:

  • Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing. The gravy soaks into the creamy potatoes, creating a perfect bite every time.
  • Roast Chicken: Whether it’s a simple roast chicken or a rotisserie, this gravy adds the finishing touch.
  • Meatloaf: Meatloaf without gravy? Blasphemy! Pour this over the top for a comforting, nostalgic meal.
  • Roast Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots, parsnips—add a little gravy, and you’ve just elevated the humble veggie to something extraordinary.
  • Turkey: A Thanksgiving classic. This gravy can be made with turkey drippings for an even richer flavor.

Methods to Enhance the Gravy:

  1. Drippings are Key: Always try to make your gravy with drippings from a roast. They add so much flavor, and it’s a great way to use everything from your meal.
  2. Infuse with Fresh Herbs: For an even deeper flavor, consider tying fresh thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves in cheesecloth and letting them steep in the gravy while it simmers.
  3. Use Stock Over Broth: Homemade stock, if you have it, will bring a much more concentrated flavor to your gravy. If you can’t make your own, a good-quality store-bought stock will work wonders.
  4. For a Richer Flavor: A splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar can add a nice complexity to the gravy, especially if you’re serving it with beef or lamb.

Enjoy every bite!

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