Ham gravy is a delicious accompaniment to any ham dish. Whether you’re serving ham for a holiday dinner or just as a weeknight meal, ham gravy can take your dish to the next level. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make ham gravy that is rich, flavorful, and the perfect complement to your ham.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup of ham drippings
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of chicken or beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Collect Ham Drippings
Collect the drippings from your cooked ham. The drippings are the flavorful juices that accumulate at the bottom of the pan while the ham is cooking. You will need around 1/4 cup of ham drippings for this recipe. If you don’t have enough drippings, you can supplement with butter or bacon fat.
Step 2: Make the Roux
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the ham drippings and flour. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and bubbly, about 2 minutes. This mixture is called a roux, and it will thicken your gravy.
Step 3: Add Broth
Gradually add the chicken or beef broth to the roux, stirring constantly. Continue cooking and stirring until the gravy thickens, about 5-10 minutes. You can adjust the thickness of the gravy by adding more or less broth.
Step 4: Season
Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can also add herbs or spices like thyme, rosemary, or garlic for extra flavor.
Step 5: Serve
Pour the ham gravy into a serving dish or gravy boat and serve hot. Ham gravy is the perfect accompaniment to ham, mashed potatoes, biscuits, or any other dish that could use a rich, savory sauce. Enjoy!
Tips for Making Ham Gravy:
- Use quality broth: The broth you use will greatly impact the flavor of your gravy. Homemade broth or high-quality store-bought broth will give you the best results.
- Adjust consistency: If your gravy is too thick, you can thin it out with more broth or water. If it’s too thin, you can thicken it by cooking it longer or adding a cornstarch slurry.
- Customize flavors: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or seasonings to customize the flavor of your ham gravy. You can make it as simple or as complex as you like.
- Strain the gravy: If you prefer a smoother gravy, you can strain it before serving to remove any lumps or bits of flour.
- Make ahead: You can make ham gravy ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion
Ham gravy is a versatile and delicious sauce that can elevate any ham dish. By following this simple recipe and tips, you can make a flavorful and savory gravy that will impress your family and guests. Whether you’re serving ham for a special occasion or just a regular meal, ham gravy is a must-have addition to your table. Enjoy!
