When it comes to slow cookers, the possibilities are endless. From hearty stews to tender roasts, these kitchen appliances can handle it all. But what about gravy? Can you put gravy in a slow cooker, or is it a recipe for disaster? In this article, we’ll explore the world of slow cooker gravy and provide you with the answers you need to take your cooking to the next level.
Understanding Gravy and Slow Cookers
Before we dive into the world of slow cooker gravy, let’s take a step back and understand the basics. Gravy is a sauce made from the pan drippings of cooked meat, flour or starch, and liquid. It’s a staple in many cuisines, adding flavor and moisture to dishes like roast beef, mashed potatoes, and stuffing.
Slow cookers, on the other hand, are kitchen appliances that use low heat to cook food over a long period. They’re perfect for busy home cooks who want to come home to a hot, ready-to-eat meal. But can they handle gravy?
The Science of Gravy in a Slow Cooker
The key to making gravy in a slow cooker is understanding the science behind it. Gravy is typically made by whisking together pan drippings, flour or starch, and liquid. The mixture is then cooked over high heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
In a slow cooker, things work a bit differently. The low heat and moisture-rich environment can cause the gravy to break or become too thin. This is because the starches in the gravy can break down over time, leading to a sauce that’s more like soup than gravy.
However, this doesn’t mean you can’t make gravy in a slow cooker. With a few tweaks and tricks, you can create a rich, flavorful gravy that’s perfect for your favorite dishes.
Tips for Making Gravy in a Slow Cooker
So, how do you make gravy in a slow cooker? Here are a few tips to get you started:
Use a Roux-Based Gravy
One of the best ways to make gravy in a slow cooker is to use a roux-based gravy. A roux is a mixture of flour and fat that’s cooked together until it’s lightly browned. This creates a rich, nutty flavor that’s perfect for gravy.
To make a roux-based gravy in a slow cooker, simply whisk together flour and fat (such as butter or oil) in the slow cooker. Cook on high for 30 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally, until the roux is lightly browned. Then, add in your liquid and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the gravy has thickened.
Use Cornstarch or Tapioca Flour
Another way to make gravy in a slow cooker is to use cornstarch or tapioca flour. These starches are more stable in the slow cooker’s low heat and moisture-rich environment, making them perfect for thickening gravy.
To use cornstarch or tapioca flour, simply whisk it into your liquid before adding it to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the gravy has thickened.
Add Aromatics and Spices
Finally, don’t forget to add aromatics and spices to your gravy. Onions, garlic, and herbs like thyme and rosemary are all great additions to slow cooker gravy.
Simply sauté your aromatics in a bit of oil before adding them to the slow cooker. Then, add in your spices and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the gravy has thickened.
Slow Cooker Gravy Recipes
Now that you know the basics of making gravy in a slow cooker, let’s take a look at a few recipes. Here are two delicious slow cooker gravy recipes to try:
Recipe 1: Slow Cooker Brown Gravy
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 2 tablespoons butter | Melt butter in slow cooker on high for 30 minutes. |
| 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour | Whisk flour into melted butter to make a roux. Cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. |
| 2 cups beef broth | Whisk broth into roux and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until gravy has thickened. |
| 1 teaspoon dried thyme | Add thyme to gravy and cook for an additional 30 minutes. |
Recipe 2: Slow Cooker Mushroom Gravy
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 tablespoon butter | Melt butter in slow cooker on high for 30 minutes. |
| 1 cup sliced mushrooms | Add mushrooms to slow cooker and cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. |
| 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour | Whisk flour into mushroom mixture to make a roux. Cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. |
| 2 cups chicken broth | Whisk broth into roux and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until gravy has thickened. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While making gravy in a slow cooker can be a bit tricky, there are a few common mistakes to avoid. Here are two things to watch out for:
Over-Thickening the Gravy
One of the most common mistakes when making gravy in a slow cooker is over-thickening the gravy. This can happen when you add too much flour or starch, or when you cook the gravy for too long.
To avoid over-thickening the gravy, simply whisk in a bit more liquid if the gravy becomes too thick. You can also cook the gravy for a shorter amount of time to prevent it from becoming too thick.
Not Whisking the Gravy Enough
Another common mistake when making gravy in a slow cooker is not whisking the gravy enough. This can cause the gravy to become lumpy or separated.
To avoid this, simply whisk the gravy every 30 minutes or so to ensure it’s smooth and creamy. You can also use an immersion blender to blend the gravy right in the slow cooker.
Conclusion
Making gravy in a slow cooker can be a bit tricky, but with a few tips and tricks, you can create a rich, flavorful gravy that’s perfect for your favorite dishes. Whether you’re making a roux-based gravy or using cornstarch or tapioca flour, the key is to understand the science behind gravy and to whisk constantly.
By following the tips and recipes outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to making delicious slow cooker gravy. So go ahead, give it a try, and see the difference it can make in your cooking!
What is slow cooker gravy and how does it differ from traditional gravy?
Slow cooker gravy is a type of gravy that is made using a slow cooker, also known as a crock pot. It differs from traditional gravy in that it is cooked over a longer period of time, typically 6-8 hours, which allows the flavors to meld together and the gravy to thicken. This method of cooking also makes it easier to prepare, as it can be left to cook while you attend to other tasks.
The slow cooker method also allows for a richer and more intense flavor, as the ingredients have time to simmer and reduce, resulting in a thicker and more velvety texture. Additionally, slow cooker gravy can be made with a variety of ingredients, such as meat drippings, broth, and spices, which can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.
What are the benefits of making slow cooker gravy?
One of the main benefits of making slow cooker gravy is the convenience it offers. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and let it cook while you attend to other tasks. This method is perfect for busy people who want to prepare a delicious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Additionally, slow cooker gravy is a great way to use up leftover meat and vegetables, reducing food waste and saving you money.
Another benefit of slow cooker gravy is that it can be made in large quantities, making it perfect for special occasions or events where you need to feed a crowd. The slow cooker method also allows for easy reheating and serving, as the gravy can be kept warm for several hours without losing its flavor or texture.
What ingredients do I need to make slow cooker gravy?
To make slow cooker gravy, you will need a few basic ingredients, including meat drippings or broth, flour or cornstarch, and spices. You can also add other ingredients such as onions, garlic, and herbs to give the gravy more flavor. If you want a richer gravy, you can add some red wine or beef broth. You will also need a slow cooker, which can be any size depending on the amount of gravy you want to make.
The type and amount of ingredients you use will depend on your personal preferences and the type of dish you are serving the gravy with. For example, if you are serving the gravy with roasted meat, you may want to use more meat drippings and spices. If you are serving it with mashed potatoes, you may want to use more broth and herbs.
How do I make slow cooker gravy?
To make slow cooker gravy, start by adding the ingredients to the slow cooker, including the meat drippings or broth, flour or cornstarch, and spices. Stir the mixture well to combine, then cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. You can also cook the gravy on high for 3-4 hours, but this may result in a thinner consistency.
As the gravy cooks, you can stir it occasionally to prevent lumps from forming. You can also add more ingredients, such as onions or garlic, to the gravy during the cooking time to give it more flavor. Once the gravy is cooked, you can serve it hot over your favorite dish, such as roasted meat, mashed potatoes, or stuffing.
Can I make slow cooker gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can make slow cooker gravy ahead of time, which is one of the benefits of this method. Simply prepare the gravy as instructed, then refrigerate or freeze it until you are ready to serve. To reheat the gravy, simply place it in the slow cooker and cook on low for 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until it is hot and bubbly.
You can also make the gravy components ahead of time, such as cooking the meat and vegetables, then refrigerating or freezing them until you are ready to assemble the gravy. This method is perfect for special occasions or events where you need to prepare a lot of food ahead of time.
How do I store and reheat slow cooker gravy?
To store slow cooker gravy, let it cool completely, then refrigerate or freeze it in an airtight container. The gravy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat the gravy, simply place it in the slow cooker and cook on low for 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until it is hot and bubbly.
You can also reheat the gravy on the stovetop or in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause the gravy to thicken too much. If you are reheating the gravy in the slow cooker, you can add a little more broth or water if it becomes too thick.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making slow cooker gravy?
One common mistake to avoid when making slow cooker gravy is not stirring the mixture enough, which can result in lumps forming. To prevent this, stir the gravy occasionally as it cooks, and make sure to whisk it well before serving. Another mistake is not cooking the gravy long enough, which can result in a thin or watery consistency.
To avoid this, cook the gravy for the recommended 6-8 hours, or until it reaches the desired consistency. You can also add more thickening agents, such as flour or cornstarch, if the gravy becomes too thin. Finally, be careful not to overseason the gravy, as this can make it too salty or overpowering. Taste the gravy as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly.