Ah, the allure of creamy onion gravy—a concoction that holds the power to transform the mundane into the extraordinary. It’s like the comforting embrace of a cozy sweater on a chilly evening, yet it carries the unexpected surprise of a pop quiz when you were just settling in. Whether ladled over mashed potatoes or drizzled on a tender roast, this gravy will have you questioning why you ever settled for anything less.
Steps
- Begin by melting butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in sliced onions and a little sugar, cooking for about 30 minutes until they turn a deep golden color and become caramelized.
- Pour in red wine and add herbs, bringing the mixture to a rapid boil for 2 minutes. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, then incorporate mustard, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Add stock to the mixture, bring it to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer and cover it. Allow it to cook for an additional 20 minutes.
- Discard the herb sprigs, then mix in vinegar and whisk in cornstarch. Continue to simmer for another minute or two, whisking constantly until it thickens.
- Stir in cold butter, whisking until it is fully dissolved. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, and add more mustard if preferred.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 cup red wine
- A few sprigs of fresh herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary)
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon cold butter
Nutritional Values
Calories: 820 kcal | Carbohydrates: 40 g | Protein: 10 g | Fat: 70 g | Saturated Fat: 40 g | Cholesterol: 180 mg | Sodium: 3960 mg | Potassium: 780 mg | Fiber: 10 g | Sugar: 20 g | Vitamin A: 2210 IU | Vitamin C: 20 mg | Calcium: 90 mg | Iron: 10 mg
FAQ
- How should I store homemade onion gravy and how long will it last?
- Store the homemade onion gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. If using cornstarch, you might need to re-thicken the gravy upon reheating, as it can break down when thawed.
- What dishes pair well with onion gravy?
- Onion gravy complements a variety of dishes such as mashed potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, hamburger or cube steak, roast chicken, pot roast, meatloaf, Salisbury steak, pork chops, schnitzel, poutine, and meatballs.
- Can I enhance the flavor of the onion gravy?
- Yes, if you’re cooking a roast, pork chops, or chicken, consider making the gravy in the same pan as the meat drippings to enhance its flavor.
- Is there a way to make the onion gravy more luxurious?
- For a more luxurious touch, add red wine and herbs to the caramelized onions, then allow the mixture to simmer before adding the remaining ingredients.
- Can the onion gravy recipe be adjusted for dietary preferences?
- The recipe can be adjusted by using vegetable stock instead of meat stock for a vegetarian version, and choosing a gluten-free cornstarch for thickening if needed.
Tips
- Caramelize the Onions Thoroughly: Take your time when caramelizing the onions, aiming for a deep golden color. This step is crucial for developing a rich and flavorful base for your gravy.
- Enhance Flavor with Meat Drippings: If you’re preparing a roast or frying meats like pork chops or chicken, consider making the gravy in the same pan to incorporate meat drippings, which will significantly boost the flavor.
- Adjust Thickness When Reheating: If you plan to store the gravy, be aware that cornstarch can break down upon freezing. When reheating, you might need to re-thicken it by adding a cornstarch slurry and simmering until the desired consistency is reached.
- Balance Seasonings to Taste: After preparing the gravy, taste and adjust the seasonings. You may want to add more mustard, salt, or pepper based on your preference for a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
Equipment
- Whisk – For whisking the cornstarch and cold butter into the gravy to achieve the desired consistency.
- Saucepan – A medium-sized saucepan for caramelizing the onions and cooking the gravy.
- Airtight container – For storing leftover gravy in the fridge or freezer.
