Absolutely, you can use cornstarch instead of flour to make a delicious and gluten-free gravy. Cornstarch gravy is a great option for those who are looking for a quick and easy way to make gravy, or for those who have dietary restrictions that prevent them from consuming flour.
Benefits of Using Cornstarch for Gravy:
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Gluten-free: Cornstarch is a gluten-free thickener, making it a suitable option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
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Quick and easy to make: Cornstarch gravy can be made in a matter of minutes, making it a convenient choice for busy home cooks.
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Versatile: Cornstarch gravy can be used as a topping for a variety of dishes, including roasted meats, poultry, and vegetables.
How to Make Cornstarch Gravy:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups broth or stock
- 2 Tbsp. butter (optional)
- 2 Tbsp. cornstarch
- 1/4 cup milk or dry white wine (or use more broth or stock)
- 1/2 tsp. poultry seasoning
- 1/8 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/8 tsp. black pepper (optional)
- Salt
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, measure the broth. Add the butter, if using.
- Heat over high heat until it reaches a boil. Remove from heat.
- In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and milk or wine until smooth.
- Stir cornstarch mixture into hot broth. Stir well.
- Return to medium-high heat and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the poultry seasoning, garlic powder, and pepper.
- Taste and add salt (the amount will depend on how salty your broth was, and you might not need any at all).
Tips for Making the Best Cornstarch Gravy:
- Use a whisk to stir the cornstarch mixture into the broth. This will help prevent lumps from forming.
- Bring the gravy to a simmer over medium-high heat. This will help the cornstarch to thicken properly.
- Don’t overcook the gravy. Once it has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat.
- Season the gravy to taste. Add additional poultry seasoning, garlic powder, or black pepper to taste.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use cornstarch to thicken other sauces?
Yes, cornstarch can be used to thicken a variety of sauces, including pan sauces, white sauces, and fruit sauces.
How much cornstarch should I use to thicken gravy?
The amount of cornstarch you need will depend on the desired thickness of the gravy. For a medium-thick gravy, use 2 tablespoons of cornstarch per 2 cups of liquid.
Can I make cornstarch gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can make cornstarch gravy ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. To reheat, simply place the gravy in a saucepan over medium heat and stir until warmed through.
Cornstarch gravy is a delicious and versatile option for those who are looking for a gluten-free or quick and easy gravy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful gravy that will complement any dish.
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Tips and Tricks for the Best Gravy
- Drippings Important: The pan drippings determine the final product’s flavor and quality. Make sure they are free of any burnt bits and well-seasoned, which can be achieved by seasoning your meat appropriately.
- Cornstarch Slurry: Well combine your cornstarch and cold water, then whisk into the heated mixture. This prevents lumps and ensures even thickening. The cornstarch will not set up properly if you add it directly to the hot pot.
- Stir Continually: To prevent clumps, stir your gravy constantly as you add the cornstarch mixture.
- Use a Whisk: To stir and blend the gravy, a wire whisk works great. It makes sure that there are no lumps and that the texture is smooth.
- Simmer Instead of Boiling: After adding the cornstarch mixture, simmer the gravy instead of boiling it. This allows it to thicken properly.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your gravy before serving. Add more salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices to adjust the seasoning.
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