If you're a fan of the savory and comforting taste of gravy, you'll love a serving of brown gravy. With just 10 calories, you can indulge in the rich taste of this classic sauce without worrying about your waistline. Brown gravy is a popular sauce that is versatile and can be used with many different dishes.
Brown gravy is made from a mixture of beef broth, flour, and seasonings. Some recipes may include butter, mushrooms or onions. It is a staple in many kitchens, and is easy to prepare from scratch or from a mix.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about brown gravy, including its ingredients, nutritional information, how to make it, and more.
What is Brown Gravy?
Brown gravy is a rich sauce made from beef broth, flour, and seasonings such as salt, black pepper, and sometimes onion powder or garlic powder. It has a smooth and slightly thick texture that is commonly used to enhance the flavor of meat, poultry, and vegetables. The brown color comes from the flour that is browned in a pan or with butter before being added to the beef broth. The flour and broth mixture is then cooked until it thickens and develops a rich, savory flavor. Brown gravy is a staple in many homes, especially during the holidays when it is served with traditional meals like roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing.
Ingredients of Brown Gravy
To make brown gravy, you will need beef broth, all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and butter. Some recipes may also call for onions or mushrooms. Here is a list of the ingredients: - 1 cup beef broth - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Brown gravy is a low calorie and low fat sauce that can be enjoyed guilt-free. Here is the nutritional information for a serving of 2 ounces (57g) of brown gravy: - calories: 10 - Fat: 0g
How to Make Brown Gravy?
Making brown gravy is easy and can be done in just a few steps. Here is a simple recipe: 1. Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a saucepan over medium heat. 2. Add 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour and whisk until smooth.
Uses of Brown Gravy
Brown gravy is a versatile sauce that can be used with many different dishes. Here are some popular uses of brown gravy: - Drizzle over roasted or grilled meats such as beef, pork, or chicken. - Serve as a dip with french fries, onion rings, or chicken nuggets.
Health Benefits of Brown Gravy
While brown gravy is delicious, it may not be the healthiest sauce option. However, it does contain some important nutrients, such as iron and Vitamin B12. Here are some potential health benefits of brown gravy: - Iron helps to transport oxygen throughout the body and is essential for healthy red blood cell production. - Vitamin B12 is important for the nervous system and may help to prevent cognitive decline.
Vegan and Vegetarian Brown Gravy Options
If you're following a vegan or vegetarian diet, you can still enjoy the rich taste of brown gravy. Here are some vegan and vegetarian options: - Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. - Use vegan butter or olive oil instead of butter.
Best Pairings with Brown Gravy
Brown gravy pairs well with a variety of foods. Here are some delicious pairings to try: - Roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing - Grilled steak with sautéed mushrooms and onions
Storage Tips for Brown Gravy
Leftover brown gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. - Do not freeze brown gravy as it may change the texture and taste. - If the gravy separates when stored, simply whisk it together before reheating.
Interesting Facts About Brown Gravy
Here are some interesting facts about brown gravy: - Brown gravy is sometimes referred to as beef gravy or meat gravy. - The first written recipe for gravy dates back to the 14th century.
5 FAQ About Brown Gravy
1. What is brown gravy made of?
Brown gravy is typically made from meat drippings, flour, and beef broth or stock.
2. How is brown gravy different from other gravies?
Brown gravy is made by cooking meat until it forms a crust on the bottom of the pan, then using that crust to create a rich, brown sauce. Other gravies, like white gravy, are made from milk or cream and flour.
3. Is brown gravy healthy?
The calorie content of brown gravy is relatively low, but it can be high in sodium and fat. It's best to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
4. What can brown gravy be used for?
Brown gravy is a versatile sauce that can be used to enhance the flavor of many dishes, like meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and roasted vegetables.
5. Can brown gravy be made without meat drippings?
Yes, there are many vegetarian and vegan recipes for brown gravy that use mushrooms or soy sauce instead of meat drippings.