Gluten-Free Gravy: A Comprehensive Guide for Any Occasion

Gravy is a versatile and delicious addition to a variety of dishes, from roasts and poultry to steaks and comfort foods like burgers. While traditional gravies are often made with a roux containing wheat flour, which is unsuitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, there are many alternatives to create a perfect gluten-free gravy. In this guide, we will explore various methods and recipes to help you create delicious and satisfying gluten-free gravies that will impress your family and guests.

The Basics of Making Gluten-Free Gravy

Gravy is essentially the process of thickening pan juices from cooking. You can thicken these juices with various ingredients, including roux, starch slurries, and purees from roasted vegetables. If you are looking for a genuinely gluten-free gravy, you must avoid a classic roux made from wheat flour and instead opt for a roux made from gluten-free flour or a non-gluten thickener.

Simple Gluten-Free Gravy Recipe

Ingredients

1 onion, chopped 1 cup mushrooms, sliced 1 cup boxed broth (nodeavors preferred) 1 tablespoon cornstarch Optional: pan drippings from roasted meat or poultry

Directions

Heat a pan medium heat over and add the onions and mushrooms. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and slightly caramelized. Remove the vegetables and set aside. Place the pan drippings (if using) or the fat from cooking the vegetables in the same pan and heat over medium heat. Add the cornstarch to the drippings, whisking until smooth to avoid lumps. Pour in the boxed broth and stir well to combine with the cornstarch. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy reaches your desired thickness. Return the cooked onions and mushrooms to the pan, stir to combine, and let the gravy cook for a few more minutes to meld the flavors. Serve immediately over your desired dish, whether it be roasted turkey, chicken, or hamburgers.

Investigating Alternative Thickening Agents

If you are seeking a more intense flavor and texture, you may want to explore alternative thickening agents such as potato starch. Potato starch is a popular choice as it is easy to use and has a smooth, undetectable taste and texture. Other flours or starches, like cornstarch, can also be used, but potato starch is my preferred option due to its versatility and minimal taste impact.

Creative Variations: Gorgonzola Cheese Gravy

For those who want to add a sophisticated touch to their holiday meals or special occasions, consider creating a Gorgonzola cheese sauce. This unique and impressive dairy-based alternative to traditional gravy is not only delicious but also sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter 1 tablespoon gluten-free flour (optional, use potato starch for best results) 1 cup half and half 1/4 cup dry white wine 1/4 cup canned chicken broth 1 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese (about 4 ounces)

Directions

Melt the butter in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. If desired, add the gluten-free flour and whisk for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the half and half, followed by the dry white wine and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and stir frequently until the mixture thickens to a gravy consistency, about 1-2 minutes. Add the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese and whisk until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth, about 5 minutes. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors thoroughly. Serve the Gorgonzola cheese gravy immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Remember that if you can achieve a flavorful and texturally satisfying gravy without using gluten, you might be relying on artificial thickening agents like seaweed or non-food gelling agents. For me, the toasted wheat flour base provides a richer, more traditional taste that many can appreciate.

Traditional Family Thanksgiving Gravy

For a traditional Thanksgiving gravy, you can follow a similar process but with slight modifications to accommodate a gluten-free diet:

Ingredients

Equal parts turkey drippings and gluten-free all-purpose flour (King Arthur GF) 1 cup strained stock from turkey giblets and neck (optional) 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Directions

Begin by making a roux with the turkey drippings and gluten-free flour. Brown the drippings in a pan over medium heat, then stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a smooth paste. Gradually whisk in the strained stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. If desired, add the cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Whisk this into the gravy and let it simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes until fully thickened. Serve the gravy immediately over roasted turkey, chicken, or any other holiday dishes.

Conclusion

Whether you prefer a simple, straightforward gluten-free gravy or a more intricate Gorgonzola cheese sauce, there are numerous ways to create a delicious and satisfying gravy for any occasion. By exploring different thickening agents and flavor profiles, you can impress your family and guests with a perfect gluten-free gravy that enhances the dining experience.