How to Make Thick Gravy in a Slow Cooker

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering how to make thick gravy in a slow cooker, you’re in the right place.
There’s nothing quite like a rich, flavorful gravy to elevate your favorite dishes.
Using a slow cooker can simplify the process, allowing you to enjoy a thick, delicious gravy with minimal effort.

What Ingredients Do You Need?

To get started on mastering how to make thick gravy in slow cooker, gather the following ingredients:

• Meat: Choose from beef, chicken, or turkey for added flavor.
• Broth: Use homemade or store-bought broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable).
• Fat: A bit of butter or drippings from the meat.
• Thickening Agent: Cornstarch or flour.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs like thyme or rosemary.
• Vegetables (Optional): Onions, carrots, or celery for depth of flavor.

How Do You Prepare the Meat?

Prepare your meat properly for the best results.
Here are some steps to follow:

1. Sear the Meat:
   – Before placing it in the slow cooker, sear the outside of your meat in a hot skillet to lock in flavors.

2. Add to the Slow Cooker:
   – Place the seared meat in the slow cooker and layer in any vegetables you’re using.

3. Pour in the Broth:
   – Add enough broth to cover the meat halfway. This will help it cook evenly.

How Do You Create a Flavor Base for Your Gravy?

The base of your gravy is crucial for achieving the best flavor. Here’s how you can create a flavorful base:

1. Start with Fat:
   – Use butter or meat drippings to enhance the richness of the gravy.

2. Sauté Aromatics:
   – If you have time, you can sauté onions, garlic, or shallots in the fat before adding them to the slow cooker.

3. Season Generously:
   – Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
   This step is essential for a well-rounded flavor.

How Do You Thicken Gravy in a Slow Cooker?

Now comes the magic of thickening your gravy.
This is a vital step in how to make thick gravy in slow cooker. Here’s how to do it:

1. Use a Thickening Agent:
   – About 30 minutes before the cooking time is over, mix equal parts of cornstarch and cold water, or flour and water to create a slurry.

2. Incorporate the Slurry:
   – Stir the slurry into the slow cooker contents.
   This will thicken your gravy as it finishes cooking.

3. Allow to Cook:
   – Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes with the lid off. This allows steam to escape and prevents the gravy from being too runny.

What are Some Tips for Perfecting Your Gravy?

To ensure your gravy turns out perfect every time, consider the following tips:

• Avoid Overcrowding:

• Too much meat or too many vegetables can make it difficult for the gravy to thicken.

• Adjust the Seasoning:

• Always taste your gravy as it cooks and adjust the seasonings as necessary.

• Experiment with Flavors:

• Try adding Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or a splash of wine for more depth.

• Use a Fat Separator:

• If using a fatty meat, separate the fat before adding it to the gravy to reduce greasiness.

Can You Make Gravy from Scratch?

Absolutely!
Making gravy from scratch while utilizing your slow cooker is a great way to enjoy homemade goodness.

Follow These Simple Steps:

1. Collect Drippings:
   – After cooking your meat, collect the drippings in a container.

2. Create a Roux:
   – On the stovetop, make a roux by melting butter and whisking in flour until it’s a golden color.

3. Add Broth Gradually:
   – Slowly whisk in the broth into the roux, ensuring there are no lumps.

4. Combine in Slow Cooker:
   – Finally, pour the mixture into the slow cooker with the cooked meat, allowing it to meld flavors on low heat.

What Dishes Pair Well with Thick Gravy?

Knowing how to make thick gravy in slow cooker opens up endless meal possibilities.
Some traditional dishes that pair perfectly with gravy include:

• Mashed Potatoes:
  A classic pairing that never goes out of style.

• Biscuits:
  Pour gravy over freshly baked biscuits for a comforting breakfast.

• Roast Chicken or Turkey:
  Enhance the flavor of roast meats with your homemade gravy.

• Meatloaf:
  Serve gravy over sliced meatloaf to add moisture and flavor.

• Poutine:
  For a Canadian twist, pour gravy over fries topped with cheese curds.

How Do You Store Leftover Gravy?

If you have leftover gravy, it’s simple to store it for later use:

• Cool it Down:

• Allow gravy to cool to room temperature before storing it.

• Use Airtight Containers:

• Pour the gravy into airtight containers or freezer bags.

• Refrigerate or Freeze:

• Store in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.

Conclusion

In summary, how to make thick gravy in slow cooker is a straightforward and rewarding process.
With the right ingredients and techniques, you’ll be able to whip up a delicious, thick gravy that enhances all your favorite dishes.
Whether using drippings from meat or thickening with a slurry, mastering this skill can elevate your cooking and impress your family and friends.
So, gather your ingredients and get your slow cooker ready for some rich, savory goodness!