What To Know
- This classic combination is a pantry staple for a reason – it’s incredibly versatile, budget-friendly, and produces a rich, flavorful gravy that complements any dish.
- Whether you’re serving roast chicken, a hearty beef stew, or a simple sausage and mash, a good gravy can make all the difference.
- And the best part is, you don’t need to be a culinary expert to create a delicious gravy from scratch.
Are you tired of bland, watery gravy that doesn’t quite hit the spot? Learning how to make gravy with oxo cubes and plain flour is a simple and effective way to elevate your meals. This classic combination is a pantry staple for a reason – it’s incredibly versatile, budget-friendly, and produces a rich, flavorful gravy that complements any dish.
A Quick and Easy Gravy Solution
Whether you’re serving roast chicken, a hearty beef stew, or a simple sausage and mash, a good gravy can make all the difference. And the best part is, you don’t need to be a culinary expert to create a delicious gravy from scratch. This guide will walk you through the simple steps of making gravy with oxo cubes and plain flour, ensuring you always have a flavorful sauce on hand.
Gather Your Essential Ingredients
Before we embark on our gravy-making journey, let’s gather the essential ingredients:
- OXO Cubes: The foundation of our gravy. Opt for beef or chicken cubes depending on your dish.
- Plain Flour: The thickening agent that gives our gravy its velvety texture.
- Water: The liquid base of our gravy.
- Stock: Optional, but using beef or chicken stock can enhance the depth of flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To season your gravy to perfection.
The Importance of the Roux
The roux is the heart of any gravy, and it’s a simple mixture of flour and fat. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth, silky texture.
1. Melt the Fat: In a saucepan, melt a tablespoon of butter or oil over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the Flour: Gradually whisk in 2 tablespoons of plain flour, ensuring no lumps form.
3. Cook the Roux: Continuously whisk the mixture for a minute or two, allowing the raw flour flavor to cook out. This step is essential to prevent a raw flour taste in your gravy.
Building a Flavorful Base
Now that we have our roux, it’s time to create a flavorful base for our gravy.
1. Dissolve the OXO Cube: In a separate saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add an OXO cube and stir until completely dissolved.
2. Combine the Roux: Gradually whisk the hot water and OXO mixture into the roux, ensuring a smooth and consistent texture.
3. Add Stock (Optional): If desired, add 1 cup of beef or chicken stock to the gravy for an even richer flavor.
Simmering for Perfection
The final step is to simmer the gravy until it reaches the desired consistency.
1. Bring to a Simmer: Bring the gravy to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Simmer and Stir: Continue to simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
Serving Your Delicious Gravy
Your homemade gravy is ready to serve!
- Pour over your dish: Drizzle the gravy generously over your roast chicken, beef stew, or other favorite meals.
- Keep Warm: If you’re not serving the gravy immediately, keep it warm in a saucepan over low heat.
- Store Leftovers: Leftover gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips for Elevated Gravy
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce to your gravy for an extra layer of complexity.
- Thickening Control: If your gravy is too thin, add a tablespoon of cold water mixed with 1 teaspoon of flour to thicken it.
- Lumpy Gravy? Strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps.
- Don’t Overheat: Avoid letting the gravy boil, as this can cause it to become thick and gloopy.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Gravy Variations
While the classic oxo cube and plain flour gravy is a winner, you can easily adapt this recipe to create unique flavors.
- Mushroom Gravy: Add a handful of chopped mushrooms to the roux while it’s cooking.
- Garlic Gravy: Add a clove of minced garlic to the roux for a savory punch.
- Herb Gravy: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to your gravy for a fragrant aroma.
The Art of Gravy: More Than Just a Sauce
Making gravy with oxo cubes and plain flour is not just about creating a delicious sauce; it’s about elevating your meals to new heights. This simple and versatile recipe is a culinary tool that can transform your everyday dishes into something truly special.
The Final Touch: A Gravy Masterpiece
You’ve learned the basics, explored variations, and even picked up some pro tips. Now, it’s time to unleash your inner culinary artist. Experiment with different flavors, adjust the seasoning to your preferences, and create a gravy that reflects your personal touch.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I use different types of flour for gravy?
A: While plain flour is the most common choice, you can also use cornstarch or arrowroot powder. These alternatives will produce a slightly thinner gravy, but they can be helpful if you want a lighter texture.
Q: How do I know when my gravy is done?
A: The gravy is done when it has reached your desired consistency and is no longer raw-tasting. It should coat the back of a spoon smoothly.
Q: What if my gravy is too thick?
A: If your gravy is too thick, simply whisk in a little more water or stock until you reach the desired consistency.
Q: Can I make gravy ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make gravy ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Simply store the gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with gravy?
A: Gravy is a versatile sauce that pairs well with many side dishes, including mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, and pasta.
