Are you tired of lumpy, bland gravies that disappoint your dinner guests? Get ready to transform your ham dishes with this incredibly simple yet restaurant-quality ham gravy recipe! In just 15 minutes, you'll create a luxuriously smooth, flavor-packed sauce that will elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're a cooking novice or a seasoned home chef, this foolproof cornstarch gravy technique will become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup ham broth
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water until the cornstarch is completely dissolved, creating a smooth slurry with no lumps.
- Pour the ham broth into a medium saucepan and heat over medium heat until it begins to simmer, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
- Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering ham broth, whisking constantly to prevent clumping and ensure smooth integration.
- Continue cooking and stirring the mixture for 3-4 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken and become glossy. The gravy will reach its maximum thickness as it heats and begins to bubble.
- Taste the gravy and season with salt and pepper, adjusting the seasoning to your preference. Remember that ham broth is often already salty, so add salt sparingly.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the gravy rest for 1-2 minutes, which will allow it to continue thickening slightly.
- Transfer the gravy to a serving container or gravy boat, and serve immediately while warm alongside ham, mashed potatoes, or other desired dishes.
Tips
- Always use cold water when mixing cornstarch to prevent lumps. The cold temperature helps the cornstarch dissolve more evenly.
- Whisk continuously when adding the cornstarch slurry to ensure a smooth, lump-free gravy.
- Be patient with the thickening process - the gravy will continue to thicken as it cooks and cools slightly.
- If your gravy becomes too thick, thin it out with a little additional ham broth or water.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or a splash of white wine to the broth.
- Use a wire whisk instead of a spoon for the smoothest possible texture.
- If you're watching sodium intake, use low-sodium ham broth and add salt gradually to control the seasoning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 15kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 5mg
