Gluten Free Gravy

The holidays are here, and nothing completes a festive meal quite like a rich, flavorful gravy. But if you’re like me, navigating gluten sensitivities can make even the simplest dishes a challenge. That’s why I’m thrilled to share this foolproof recipe for Gluten Free Gravy! Whether you have savory meat drippings on hand or need a quick, delicious gravy from scratch, this recipe delivers every single time. It’s so good, nobody will even guess it’s gluten-free!

I’ve spent years perfecting this recipe, tweaking and testing until I achieved the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Using gluten-free flour blends can be tricky, but I’ll guide you through selecting the right one and avoiding common pitfalls. Forget about thin, watery gravy or gluey, lumpy messes. This is silky smooth, deeply savory goodness that elevates any dish, from roast turkey and mashed potatoes to poutine! The best part? It only takes minutes to make. So, let’s ditch the gluten and dive into gravy perfection this season!

This gluten-free gravy is also incredibly versatile. Easily adapted for different dietary needs, it can be made dairy-free or vegan with simple substitutions. Plus, with the current holiday season upon us, having a reliable gluten-free gravy recipe in your arsenal is more important than ever. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable gluten-free gravy:

• Gluten-Free Flour Blend: This is the key to a smooth, lump-free gravy. I recommend a blend that includes rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch. These blends are widely available in supermarkets and online. Make sure it’s a blend meant for all-purpose baking, as that will help with thickening.
• Fat (Drippings or Butter/Oil): Animal drippings, if available, will impart a rich, meaty flavor that is hard to beat. However, melted butter (dairy or non-dairy) or olive oil work just as well for a vegetarian or vegan version.
• Broth (Chicken, Vegetable, or Beef): Choose your broth based on what you’re serving the gravy with. Chicken broth is a great all-purpose option. Make sure to use a low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the final product.
• Liquid Aminos or Soy Sauce (Tamari for gluten-free): A splash of this adds umami depth and intensifies the savory flavors. Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste.
• Optional: A sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary, a bay leaf, garlic powder, onion powder, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce (ensure it’s gluten-free!).

Ingredient Science: Gluten-free flour blends lack gluten, which is what gives traditional gravy its elasticity and structure. That’s why we use a blend of starches to achieve the right thickening power. The fat helps to create a roux, which is the foundation of the gravy. The broth provides the liquid base and flavor. Seasoning enhances and balances the overall taste.

Substitution Tips:

• Dairy-Free: Use olive oil or dairy-free butter alternative.
• Vegan: Use olive oil or vegan butter and vegetable broth.
• Thickening: If you don’t have a gluten-free flour blend, cornstarch or arrowroot powder can be used as substitutes, but be careful as these ingredients can cause the gravy to become gummy if overused. Use half the amount of cornstarch or arrowroot powder as you would gluten-free flour.

Expert Tips

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to ensure gravy success every time:

• Whisk Constantly: This is crucial to prevent lumps from forming. Use a wire whisk and keep it moving throughout the cooking process.
• Gradually Add Broth: Pour the broth in slowly, whisking continuously, to allow the flour to fully incorporate.
• Simmer Gently: Avoid boiling the gravy, as this can cause it to become thick and gloopy. A gentle simmer is all you need.
• Taste and Adjust: Taste the gravy frequently and adjust the seasoning as needed. Don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or liquid aminos to achieve the perfect flavor.
• Strain for Extra Smoothness: If you want an ultra-smooth gravy, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.

My Personal Testing Notes: I’ve tested this recipe with several different gluten-free flour blends, and I’ve found that Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free All-Purpose Baking Flour works consistently well. I also prefer using chicken broth for a versatile flavor that pairs well with most dishes. Remember, fresh herbs add a bright note, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations!

FAQ

Can I make this gravy ahead of time?

Yes, you can absolutely make this gravy ahead of time! Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop, whisking occasionally. You may need to add a little extra broth to thin it out if it has thickened too much.

How do I fix lumpy gravy?

If your gravy is lumpy, don’t despair! The easiest fix is to pour it through a fine-mesh sieve. This will remove any lumps and leave you with a smooth, silky gravy. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender to blend the lumps away. Just be careful not to over-blend, as this can make the gravy gummy.

Can I use cornstarch instead of gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can use cornstarch as a thickening agent. However, cornstarch has twice the thickening power, so use half the amount of cornstarch as you would gluten-free flour. Mix the cornstarch with a little cold water to form a slurry before adding it to the gravy. This will prevent lumps from forming.

How do I make this gravy vegan?

To make this gravy vegan, use olive oil or vegan butter instead of animal drippings or dairy butter. Also, substitute vegetable broth for chicken or beef broth. Ensure that any Worcestershire sauce you use is vegan-friendly, as some brands contain anchovies.

What if my gravy is too thick?

If your gravy is too thick, simply add more broth, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Whisk well after each addition to ensure that the gravy remains smooth.

What if my gravy is too thin?

If your gravy is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it for a longer period of time, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a small amount of gluten-free flour or cornstarch with cold water to form a slurry and add it to the gravy. Simmer for a few minutes until the gravy thickens.

Can I add wine to this gravy?

Absolutely! Adding a splash of red or white wine can add depth of flavor to your gravy. Add the wine after you’ve created the roux and cooked out the flour. Let the wine reduce slightly before adding the broth.

There you have it! A simple, delicious, and foolproof recipe for Gluten Free Gravy that will impress even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re using pan drippings from a roasted turkey or making it from scratch with butter and broth, this recipe delivers consistently perfect results. This gravy is not only gluten-free, but it’s also customizable to fit various dietary needs and preferences. So, go ahead, elevate your holiday meals or weeknight dinners with this easy and delicious gravy. Your family and friends will thank you!

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