Indulge in the warm embrace of homemade comfort food with our delightful Onion Gravy recipe. Bursting with rich flavors and aromatic onions, this savory gravy adds depth and character to any dish it accompanies. Whether drizzled over mashed potatoes, smothering a juicy steak, or enhancing a roast dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the heartwarming world of homemade onion gravy!
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 1/2 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 heat. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with 1/8 teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden brown and caramelized, about 30-40 minutes.
- Prepare the Gravy Base: Once the onions are caramelized, sprinkle the cornstarch over them and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to remove the raw taste of the cornstarch.
- Add Flavorful Enhancements: Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency. If needed, you can adjust the thickness by adding more cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water).
- Season to Perfection: Taste the gravy and season with kosher salt and black pepper as needed. Stir in the chopped fresh thyme or dried thyme for added aroma and flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the warm onion gravy over your favorite dishes and enjoy the comforting goodness it brings to every bite.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Extra Depth of Flavor: Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar during the caramelization process for a deeper, richer flavor profile.
- Creamy Variation: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy texture and added richness.
- Garlic Infusion: Enhance the flavor by adding minced garlic to the caramelized onions during the cooking process.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Replace the cornstarch with xanthan gum or a keto-friendly thickener like guar gum. Use a low-carb beef broth and ensure the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard are free from added sugars.
- Low-Carb Version: Reduce the amount of onions used or replace them with lower-carb alternatives like shallots or leeks. Thicken the gravy with almond flour or coconut flour instead of cornstarch.
In the realm of comfort foods, few dishes rival the hearty goodness of homemade onion gravy. With its velvety texture and soul-warming flavors, this recipe is a testament to the simple pleasures of home cooking. Elevate your meals and delight your taste buds with this irresistible onion gravy that adds a touch of warmth and nostalgia to every bite.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
- Can I make this gravy ahead of time?
- Absolutely! This gravy can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it gently on the stove before serving.
- What can I serve this onion gravy with?
- This versatile gravy pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, meatloaf, or even as a topping for poutine.
- Can I freeze leftover onion gravy?
- Yes, you can freeze the gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Can I use store-bought beef broth instead of making my own?
- Absolutely! Store-bought beef broth works perfectly fine in this recipe. Just make sure to use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
- Can I customize the herbs in this gravy?
- Of course! Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, sage, or parsley to tailor the flavor to your liking.
