Gravy facts for kids
Gravy is a popular sauce often served with meals. It is usually smooth and liquid. Gravy is often made from the tasty juices that come out of meat or vegetables while they cook.
You can also make gravy using ready-made powders or cubes. These are quick ways to get the same rich flavor. Gravy is commonly served with roasted meats, meatloaf, rice, and potato dishes. It is very popular with mashed potatoes.
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What is Gravy?
Gravy is a type of sauce that adds flavor and moisture to food. It is usually a thick liquid, but it should not have chunks in it. Gravy is a big part of many traditional meals, especially in English-speaking countries.
How is Gravy Made?
The most common way to make gravy is by using the drippings from cooked meat. When you roast a chicken, turkey, or beef, juices and fats collect in the bottom of the pan. These drippings are full of flavor.
To make gravy from drippings, cooks often:
- Pour off most of the fat.
- Add flour or cornstarch to the remaining drippings to make a thick paste.
- Slowly stir in water, broth, or milk.
- Cook the mixture until it thickens into a smooth sauce.
Sometimes, people add herbs, spices, or wine to make the gravy even tastier.
Quick Gravy Options
If you don't have meat drippings, there are other ways to make gravy:
- Instant Gravy: You can buy gravy in powder form or as granules. You just add hot water to these, and they thicken into gravy very quickly.
- Bouillon Cubes: These small cubes are made of dried meat or vegetable broth. You can dissolve them in hot water to create a flavorful liquid, then thicken it to make gravy.
- Canned Gravy: Just like other canned foods, you can buy ready-to-eat gravy in cans. You simply heat it up before serving.
When Do People Eat Gravy?
Gravy is a favorite addition to many meals. It is especially popular with:
- Roast Dinners: Whether it's a Sunday roast chicken, beef, or lamb, gravy is almost always served alongside.
- Thanksgiving and Christmas: Turkey gravy is a must-have for holiday feasts, especially with turkey and mashed potatoes.
- Meatloaf: Gravy makes meatloaf even more delicious and moist.
- Potatoes: Many people love to pour gravy over mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or even french fries.
- Biscuits and Gravy: In some places, especially the southern United States, a thick sausage gravy is poured over warm biscuits for breakfast.
Images for kids
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Roast meal with gravy
See also
In Spanish: Gravy para niños
