Gravy is a sauce that is commonly served with poultry or meat dishes. One tablespoon of gravy contains around 5 calories. It is a popular addition to many dishes, especially during holiday meals such as Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Gravy is typically made by combining meat drippings or stock with a thickening agent such as flour or cornstarch. It is then seasoned with salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices to taste.
In this article, we will take a closer look at gravy and explore its nutritional content, health benefits, and various uses in the kitchen.
What is Gravy?
Gravy is a thick sauce that is often served with meat or poultry dishes. It is made by combining meat drippings or stock with a thickening agent such as flour or cornstarch. The gravy is then seasoned with salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices to taste. The result is a flavorful sauce that can add richness and depth to any meal.
How is Gravy Made?
To make gravy, start by heating up the meat drippings or stock in a saucepan. If desired, add a little bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Whisk the mixture constantly and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let simmer until the gravy reaches your desired consistency. Finally, season the gravy with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices that you like. You can also add cream or butter to create a richer sauce.
How Many Calories are in 1 Tbsp of Gravy?
One tablespoon of gravy contains around 5 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie addition to your meal. However, if you are watching your weight or trying to eat healthier, it's important to be mindful of your portion sizes. A little bit of gravy can go a long way!
What Nutrients are Found in Gravy?
Gravy is not particularly high in nutrients, but it does contain a small amount of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. It may also contain vitamins and minerals if it is made with high-quality meat or stock. However, it is important to note that gravy can be high in sodium, which can be a concern for those with high blood pressure.
Is Gravy a Healthy Food?
Like most foods, the healthiness of gravy depends on how it is made and consumed. If you make gravy with high-quality ingredients and watch your portion sizes, it can be a flavorful addition to your meal. However, if your gravy is made with lots of butter and cream and you eat it in large quantities, it can be quite high in calories and fat.
How Does Gravy Add Flavor to Food?
Gravy adds flavor to food in several ways. First, it is made from meat drippings or broth, which gives it a rich, savory taste. Second, the addition of herbs and spices can further enhance the flavor profile of the gravy. Finally, the thick texture of gravy allows it to coat the surface of meat, vegetables, or mashed potatoes, amplifying their flavor.
What are Some Common Uses for Gravy?
Gravy can be used in a variety of ways in the kitchen. Some common uses include:
- Served over roasted meat, such as turkey, chicken, or beef
- Poured over mashed potatoes or vegetables
- Used as a base for soups or stews
- Drizzled over sandwiches or burgers
Can Gravy be Made with Different Ingredients?
Yes, gravy can be made with a variety of different ingredients depending on your preferences and dietary restrictions. Instead of using meat drippings, you can use vegetable broth or mushroom stock to make vegetarian or vegan gravy. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create unique flavor profiles.
How Can I Make Gravy Healthier?
To make gravy healthier, try using low-sodium broth and reducing the amount of butter and cream in the recipe. You can also experiment with thickening agents other than flour or cornstarch, such as arrowroot powder or tapioca starch. Finally, be mindful of your portion sizes and consider using gravy as a condiment rather than a main component of your meal.
Are There Any Alternatives to Gravy?
If you are looking for alternatives to gravy, there are several options to consider. For example, you can make a simple pan sauce by deglazing the cooking pan with wine or stock and whisking in a small amount of butter or cream. Alternatively, you can serve roasted meats with chutneys, relishes, or fruit compotes for a flavorful twist.
Gravy adds richness and depth to any meal.
5 FAQ About Gravy
What is gravy made of?
Gravy is typically made from the juices or drippings of meat mixed with flour or cornstarch and a liquid such as water or broth. The mixture is then simmered and stirred until it thickens and becomes flavorful.
How many calories are in a tablespoon of gravy?
A tablespoon of gravy contains approximately 5 calories. However, the calorie count may vary depending on the ingredients used to make the gravy.
Can gravy be made without meat drippings?
Yes, gravy can be made without meat drippings by using vegetable or mushroom broth instead. A roux made from flour and butter or oil can be used to thicken the gravy and add flavor.
What foods can be served with gravy?
Gravy is traditionally served with meat dishes such as turkey, chicken, beef, or pork. It can also be served with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or stuffing.
Is gravy healthy?
While gravy can add flavor to a dish, it is typically high in calories and fat. It can also be high in sodium if canned or store-bought versions are used. However, homemade gravy made with lean meat drippings and low-sodium broth can be a healthier option.