When it comes to cooking, there are few things more comforting than a warm, rich, and savory gravy served over a delicious meal. Whether you’re cooking a hearty roast, tender chicken, or a comforting casserole, gravy is often the crowning glory that brings everything together. But have you ever wondered if you can put gravy in a slow cooker? The answer is yes, and in this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of cooking with gravy in a slow cooker.
Understanding Gravy and Slow Cookers
Before we dive into the world of slow cooker gravy, let’s take a moment to understand the basics of both gravy and slow cookers. Gravy is a liquid sauce made from the pan drippings of cooked meat, flour or starch, and broth or milk. It’s a simple yet flavorful condiment that can elevate even the most mundane meal into a culinary masterpiece.
Slow cookers, on the other hand, are countertop electrical cooking devices that use low heat to cook a variety of foods over a long period of time. They’re perfect for busy home cooks who want to prepare a meal in the morning and come home to a ready-to-eat dinner.
Benefits of Cooking Gravy in a Slow Cooker
So, why would you want to put gravy in a slow cooker? Here are a few benefits of cooking gravy in a slow cooker:
- Convenience: Slow cookers are all about convenience, and cooking gravy in one is no exception. Simply add your gravy ingredients to the slow cooker, set it, and forget it.
- Richer flavor: The low heat and long cooking time of a slow cooker can help to develop a richer, more complex flavor in your gravy.
- Easy to make ahead: Cooking gravy in a slow cooker is a great way to make ahead and reheat when you’re ready.
Types of Gravy You Can Make in a Slow Cooker
The type of gravy you can make in a slow cooker is limited only by your imagination. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Brown gravy: Made with pan drippings, flour, and broth, brown gravy is a classic choice for roast beef, chicken, or pork.
- Country gravy: A Southern staple made with pan drippings, flour, and milk, country gravy is perfect for biscuits, sausage, or chicken.
- Mushroom gravy: Add some sautéed mushrooms to your slow cooker gravy for a rich and earthy flavor.
- Red-eye gravy: A classic Southern gravy made with pan drippings, coffee, and flour, red-eye gravy is perfect for serving over biscuits or eggs.
Basic Slow Cooker Gravy Recipe
Here’s a basic slow cooker gravy recipe you can use as a starting point:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil
- 2 cups broth or milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and butter or oil until smooth.
- Add the flour mixture to the slow cooker and whisk until combined with the broth or milk.
- Add the salt and pepper and whisk until smooth.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Tips for Cooking Gravy in a Slow Cooker
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when cooking gravy in a slow cooker:
- Use a roux: A roux is a mixture of flour and fat that’s used to thicken gravy. It’s a great way to add depth and richness to your slow cooker gravy.
- Deglaze the pan: If you’re using pan drippings to make your gravy, be sure to deglaze the pan with a little bit of liquid to get all the flavorful browned bits.
- Whisk constantly: Whisking constantly will help to prevent lumps from forming in your gravy.
- Add flavorings last: If you’re adding any flavorings, such as herbs or spices, add them towards the end of cooking time to prevent them from becoming bitter.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when cooking gravy in a slow cooker:
- Not whisking enough: Failing to whisk your gravy enough can result in a lumpy or uneven texture.
- Not deglazing the pan: Failing to deglaze the pan can result in a gravy that’s lacking in flavor.
- Overcooking: Overcooking your gravy can result in a thick, gloopy texture that’s unappetizing.
Slow Cooker Gravy Variations
Here are a few slow cooker gravy variations you might enjoy:
- Slow Cooker Mushroom Gravy: Add some sautéed mushrooms to your slow cooker gravy for a rich and earthy flavor.
- Slow Cooker Red-Eye Gravy: Add some coffee to your slow cooker gravy for a classic Southern flavor.
- Slow Cooker Country Gravy: Add some milk and flour to your slow cooker gravy for a creamy and comforting flavor.
Using Gravy in Slow Cooker Recipes
Gravy is a great addition to many slow cooker recipes. Here are a few ideas:
- Slow Cooker Pot Roast: Serve your slow cooker pot roast with a rich and savory gravy.
- Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings: Add some gravy to your slow cooker chicken and dumplings for a comforting and delicious meal.
- Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes: Top your slow cooker mashed potatoes with a rich and creamy gravy.
Conclusion
Cooking gravy in a slow cooker is a great way to add flavor and convenience to your meals. Whether you’re making a classic brown gravy or a creamy country gravy, the slow cooker is a great tool to have in your arsenal. With these tips and recipes, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a slow cooker gravy master.
| Gravy Type | Ingredients | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Brown Gravy | Pan drippings, flour, broth | 2-3 hours |
| Country Gravy | Pan drippings, flour, milk | 2-3 hours |
| Mushroom Gravy | Pan drippings, flour, broth, mushrooms | 2-3 hours |
By following these tips and recipes, you’ll be able to create delicious and flavorful gravies in your slow cooker that will elevate your meals to the next level.
Can You Put Gravy in a Slow Cooker?
You can put gravy in a slow cooker, but it’s essential to follow some guidelines to achieve the best results. Gravy can be a bit tricky to cook in a slow cooker, as it can easily become too thick or too thin. However, with the right techniques and ingredients, you can create a delicious and rich gravy in your slow cooker.
When cooking gravy in a slow cooker, it’s crucial to monitor the consistency and adjust the seasoning accordingly. You can add more liquid or thickeners as needed to achieve the desired texture. Additionally, you can use the slow cooker to keep the gravy warm for a long period, making it perfect for special occasions or large gatherings.
How Do You Make Gravy in a Slow Cooker?
Making gravy in a slow cooker is relatively simple. Start by adding the gravy ingredients, such as broth, flour, and seasonings, to the slow cooker. You can also add some fat, like butter or oil, to enhance the flavor. Then, set the slow cooker to the desired temperature and let it cook for several hours.
As the gravy cooks, you can adjust the seasoning and consistency to your liking. You can add more liquid or thickeners as needed, and also stir in some additional ingredients, like herbs or spices, to enhance the flavor. Once the gravy is cooked, you can serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika.
What Are the Benefits of Making Gravy in a Slow Cooker?
Making gravy in a slow cooker offers several benefits. One of the main advantages is that it allows you to cook the gravy for a long period, which helps to develop a rich and intense flavor. Additionally, the slow cooker makes it easy to keep the gravy warm for a long time, making it perfect for special occasions or large gatherings.
Another benefit of making gravy in a slow cooker is that it’s relatively hands-off. Once you’ve added the ingredients and set the slow cooker, you can let it cook while you attend to other tasks. This makes it perfect for busy days or when you’re hosting a large gathering.
Can You Make Brown Gravy in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make brown gravy in a slow cooker. To make brown gravy, you’ll need to add some browned bits, like pan drippings or browned flour, to the slow cooker. You can also add some soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor.
To make brown gravy in a slow cooker, start by browning some flour or pan drippings in a pan, then add them to the slow cooker with the other ingredients. Set the slow cooker to the desired temperature and let it cook for several hours. As the gravy cooks, you can adjust the seasoning and consistency to your liking.
How Do You Thicken Gravy in a Slow Cooker?
Thickening gravy in a slow cooker is relatively easy. One of the most common methods is to add some flour or cornstarch to the gravy and stir well. You can also add some butter or cream to enhance the flavor and texture.
Another method is to use a slurry, made from equal parts of flour and water, to thicken the gravy. Simply stir the slurry into the gravy and let it cook for a few minutes, until the desired consistency is reached. You can also use other thickeners, like tapioca starch or arrowroot powder, to thicken the gravy.
Can You Make Gravy Ahead of Time and Store It in the Fridge or Freezer?
Yes, you can make gravy ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. In fact, making gravy ahead of time can help to develop a richer and more intense flavor. To store gravy in the fridge, simply let it cool, then refrigerate it for up to 3 days.
To store gravy in the freezer, let it cool, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen gravy can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use the gravy, simply thaw it in the fridge or reheat it in the slow cooker or on the stovetop.
How Do You Reheat Gravy in a Slow Cooker?
Reheating gravy in a slow cooker is relatively easy. Simply add the gravy to the slow cooker and set it to the desired temperature. You can also add some additional ingredients, like herbs or spices, to enhance the flavor.
As the gravy reheats, you can adjust the seasoning and consistency to your liking. You can also add some additional liquid or thickeners as needed to achieve the desired texture. Once the gravy is hot and bubbly, you can serve it, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika.