Simple Caramelized Magic: The Best Easy Onion Gravy Recipe from America

You’ve got to hand it to life; sometimes it feels like we’re all part of a comedy – just not one you’d buy tickets to see. Recently, I found myself curled up on the couch in my favorite hole-riddled blanket (hey, it’s vintage), watching “The Other Guys.” Like those two hapless detectives, I sometimes stumble my way through the daily mayhem of NYC, twin tots in tow. I mean, I may not have Ferrell’s dance-worthy moves or Wahlberg’s snark, but I can proudly say I don’t have their knack for disarray either!

There’s something strangely familiar about their fumbling, chaotic efforts to save the day, with New York as the hilarious urban jungle backdrop. It’s like looking into one of those funhouse mirrors – slightly distorted but weirdly relatable.

As a not-so-secret multitasking mama warrior, kitchen mishaps come with the territory. Once, I used cinnamon instead of paprika on chicken. Yes, it happened. Sure, we were all reaching for the milk, but it was a memorable meal to say the least – a family dinner legend.

Now, in my kitchen, every dish is a comedy of errors. Why not laugh our way through life’s quirks? In that spirit, I’ve cooked up an Onion Gravy dish that packs a serious punchline. Who knew flavor could tickle the funny bone? Just wait till you try it! Stick around for the recipe, and let’s share some laughter along with a good meal, as we navigate this sitcom called life.

Ingredients

  1. Large yellow onion – Caramelized onions, the star of the show, add a rich and deep flavor to the gravy.

  2. Garlic – A subtle pungency to enhance the sweetness of the onions.

  3. Vegetable oil – Used to cook the onions and garlic.

  4. Unsalted butter – A rich and creamy texture to the gravy.

  5. All-purpose flour – To thicken the gravy.

  6. Chicken broth – A good quality broth is used as the base of the gravy for the best taste.

Instructions

  1. Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and adding some vegetable oil.
  2. Once hot, throw in your sliced onion and stir occasionally until they turn golden brown. Caramelizing the onions is key for that rich flavor.
  3. Now add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  4. Next, move the onions and garlic to the side and add butter to the center of the pan. Once the butter melts, add in the flour and stir until golden.
  5. Slowly pour in your chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Mix everything together and scrape the bottom of the pan for those yummy brown bits.
  6. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to medium-low and let it simmer until it thickens, about 15 minutes.
  7. Remember that the longer you caramelize the onions, the richer the overall flavor will be. Keep an eye on them, as caramelizing can happen quickly, and they can burn easily!
  8. To avoid lumps, sift your flour or use cornstarch for a gluten-free option. If you’re in a hurry, you can make the gravy ahead and reheat in a saucepan over low heat.
  9. Now your onion gravy is ready to go! Serve it over mashed potatoes, steaks, or any other dish that needs a delicious boost of flavor!

Serving Suggestions for the Onion Gravy Recipe

This Onion Gravy recipe is perfect for those who love a little extra flavor in their meals. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of your gravy:

  • Serve it over mashed potatoes. Nothing beats a hearty serving of mashed potatoes with a rich and savory gravy.
  • Use it as a topping for a juicy steak. Add a little extra oomph to your steak with a flavorful onion gravy.
  • Drizzle it over roasted vegetables. Roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and butternut squash are elevated to a whole new level with a generous pour of onion gravy.
  • Use it as a base for a pot pie. This onion gravy is the perfect foundation for a delicious and comforting pot pie.
  • Pour it over a hot bowl of rice. Rice bowls are a staple in many households, and this onion gravy makes it that much better.

FAQ’s

Can I use a different type of onion for this recipe?

Sure thing! While yellow onions are great for caramelizing because of their slightly higher sugar content, which results in that perfect golden-brown color, you can certainly use other types of onions. White onions would work well, or even sweet onions like Vidalia. Just keep in mind that the end result may vary a bit in flavor and color.

Can I use chicken broth or can I use vegetable broth instead?

Of course! The recipe calls for chicken broth, but if you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan option, feel free to use vegetable broth instead. It’s going to be a little different in taste, but it will still be delicious.

Can I make this gravy gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make it gluten-free, you can swap out the all-purpose flour for cornstarch. Just make sure to take the time to sift your cornstarch first, to avoid any lumps in your gravy.

Can I make this gravy ahead of time?

You sure can! Making gravy ahead of time can save you time in the kitchen. Simply reheat the gravy in a small saucepan on low heat and whisk as needed. And, don’t worry if it’s not as thick as when you first made it, it’s easy to thicken it up again by adding a bit of flour or cornstarch.

How long do I need to caramelize the onions?

The recipe calls for cooking the sliced yellow onion until they begin to caramelize, which is about 10-15 minutes. But, the longer you caramelize the onions, the richer the overall flavor of the gravy will be. So if you’re feeling patient, and want to create a rich, decadent gravy, go for it! Just keep an eye on them, because caramelizing happens quickly and they can burn easily.

Caramelized Onion and Garlic Gravy

This rich and flavorful gravy is made with caramelized onions and garlic, combined with a smooth roux and chicken broth. Perfect as a topping for roasted meats and potatoes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Sauce
Cuisine American
Servings 4 portions
Calories 235 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Whisk
  • Sieve (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and swirl to coat the pan.
  • Add the sliced onions and season with a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and soft, about 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  • In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously until smooth and golden, about 2 minutes.
  • Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the caramelized onions and garlic to the saucepan. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme, if using.
  • Simmer the gravy, stirring occasionally, until thick and creamy, about 10 minutes.
  • If desired, sieve the gravy to make it smoother.
  • Serve the gravy warm, topped with fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch.
If you prefer a sweeter gravy, add a teaspoon of brown sugar or honey when cooking the onions.
To store the gravy, let it cool to room temperature and transfer to an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat the gravy in a saucepan over low heat, whisking continuously until warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 235kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 4gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 36mgSodium: 518mgPotassium: 215mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 46mgIron: 1mg
Keyword Gravy, Caramelized Onion, Garlic
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