There’s something undeniably comforting about the rich aroma and savory flavor of homemade gravy. And when it comes to adding depth and richness to your favorite dishes, onion gravy reigns supreme. Made with caramelized onions, flavorful broth, and a hint of herbs and spices, this classic condiment elevates everything from mashed potatoes to roast beef. Join us as we delve into the world of onion gravy and learn how to create this delectable sauce from scratch.
Ingredients:
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 2 large yellow onions, cut in half and sliced thin
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 ½ tablespoons cornstarch
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
Instructions:
- Caramelize the Onions:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
- Add the sliced onions and season with 1/8 teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 30-40 minutes.
- Prepare the Gravy:
- Once the onions are caramelized, sprinkle the cornstarch over the onions and stir to combine.
- Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and chopped thyme to the skillet. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients.
- Simmer and Thicken:
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency. If needed, you can adjust the thickness by adding more cornstarch mixed with water.
- Season to Taste:
- Season the gravy with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preferences.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the gravy is ready, remove it from the heat and transfer it to a serving dish. Serve hot alongside your favorite dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Storage: Store any leftover onion gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian-friendly version of this gravy, you can use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The caramelized onions and savory flavors will still create a delicious sauce that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your onion gravy. Rosemary, sage, or bay leaves can all add a unique and aromatic touch to the sauce.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute the cornstarch with a keto-friendly thickener such as xanthan gum or guar gum.
- Use a low-carb beef broth or bone broth to reduce the carb content of the gravy.
- Adjust the amount of onions used to fit within your daily carb limit.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto version substitutions above, focusing on reducing carbs and using low-carb alternatives where possible.
- Be mindful of the portion size and the carb content of any additional ingredients added to the gravy.
In conclusion, homemade onion gravy is a versatile and flavorful condiment that adds richness and depth to a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty roast dinner or drizzling it over mashed potatoes, this savory sauce is sure to become a family favorite. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a batch of delicious onion gravy to elevate your meals and bring comfort to every bite. So why wait? Give this recipe a try and savor the comforting goodness of homemade onion gravy today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use store-bought beef broth for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use store-bought beef broth if you don’t have homemade broth on hand. Just be sure to use a low-sodium option to control the saltiness of the gravy.
Q: Can I freeze onion gravy? A: Yes, you can freeze onion gravy for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and serving.
