How to Make Gravy From Scratch (Smooth, No Lumps)

Good gravy makes a roast dinner. It's easier than it looks, and you only need a few ingredients.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons fat (turkey drippings or butter)
• 3 tablespoons plain flour
• 2 cups (500 ml) warm stock
• Salt, pepper and a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of herbs (optional)

Method

1. Heat the fat in a pan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden. This is called a roux.
3. Slowly pour in the warm stock, whisking constantly.
4. Simmer for 5–10 minutes until thickened.
5. Season to taste.

How to fix gravy problems

• Lumpy: pour through a sieve or blend with a stick blender.
• Too thin: simmer longer, or whisk in a little cornflour mixed with cold water.
• Too thick: add more stock a splash at a time.
• Bland: add salt, pepper, a dash of soy sauce or a little more stock cube.

Make it ahead

Make gravy with stock up to three days ahead and refrigerate. On the day, reheat it and stir in some turkey pan juices for extra flavour.

Once you've made gravy from scratch, you'll never go back to packets.