How to Fix Bland Gravy

Gravy adds flavor to a meal.

Flavorful gravy can complement a meal, adding appeal to many foods at the dinner table from bread or meat to starches, such as potatoes or rice. A flavorless gravy can result despite best intentions, but all hope is not lost if your gravy is lacking the rich flavor that you sought. You can save bland gravy, often with common kitchen essentials.

Things You'll Need

• Salt
• Pepper
• Fortified alcohol

Instructions

1. Add pan drippings if you are cooking meat with a rich flavor. Caramelized vegetables such as onions, carrots and celery cooked with the roast or bird will also lend flavor to the gravy when added.

2. Add a splash of a fortified alcohol such as Madeira, Port or Sherry. This will give richness and a mellow flavor to the gravy. Pour slowly and stir, tasting the gravy as you go to gauge how the flavor is affected.

3. Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper to taste. Black pepper will emphasize the flavor of your gravy.

4. Increase salt to taste. Salt, like pepper, will emphasize the original flavor of the gravy. Add salt slowly and taste frequently to avoid overdoing it.

References

• "How to Repair Food, Third Edition"; Tanya Zeryck; 2010
• "Sauces: Classical and Contemporary Sauce Making"; James Peterson; 2008