Onion gravy is a rich, flavorful sauce that can elevate any meal. Whether served over mashed potatoes, meatloaf, or roasted meats, this gravy adds depth and a delicious, savory taste. Let’s dive into the step-by-step recipe to create this mouthwatering onion gravy.
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 2 large yellow onions, cut in half and sliced thin
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 ½ tablespoons cornstarch
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onions
- Melt Butter:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Cook Onions:
- Add the sliced onions and ⅛ teaspoon of kosher salt to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes, or until the onions are caramelized and golden brown.
Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings
- Add Beef Broth:
- Pour in the low sodium beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Thicken the Gravy
- Mix Cornstarch:
- In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, stirring until smooth.
- Thicken Gravy:
- Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the simmering gravy, stirring constantly. Continue to cook until the gravy has thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Season and Serve
- Add Thyme:
- Stir in the chopped fresh thyme (or dried thyme) and season with additional kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve the onion gravy hot over your favorite dishes such as mashed potatoes, meatloaf, or roasted meats.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Caramelizing Onions: Be patient while caramelizing the onions. Cook them slowly over medium heat to develop their natural sweetness and deep flavor.
- Broth Choice: For a richer flavor, you can use a combination of beef and chicken broth.
- Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, add a bit more broth to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken.
Variations
Mushroom Onion Gravy
- Add Mushrooms:
- Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the onions during the caramelization process for a delicious mushroom onion gravy.
Red Wine Onion Gravy
- Add Red Wine:
- Replace ½ cup of the beef broth with red wine for a rich and sophisticated flavor.
Vegetarian Onion Gravy
- Vegetable Broth:
- Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version of this gravy.
Serving Suggestions
With Mashed Potatoes
- Classic Pairing:
- Serve the onion gravy over creamy mashed potatoes for a classic and comforting side dish.
With Meatloaf
- Hearty Meal:
- Pour the gravy over slices of meatloaf for a hearty and satisfying meal.
With Roasted Meats
- Flavor Boost:
- Use the gravy as a sauce for roasted chicken, pork, or beef to add extra flavor and moisture.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this gravy ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make the onion gravy ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover onion gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this gravy? A: Yes, you can freeze the onion gravy. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Q: What if I don’t have Dijon mustard? A: You can substitute Dijon mustard with yellow mustard or grainy mustard, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Q: Can I use different types of onions? A: Yes, you can use red onions or sweet onions instead of yellow onions for a different flavor profile.
Onion gravy is a versatile and flavorful sauce that can enhance many dishes. With its rich, caramelized onions and savory taste, this gravy is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe with your family and friends!