Making Au Jus Gravy Mix at home is a straightforward task that can elevate many meals, especially those featuring beef. This savory sauce, known for its rich and deep flavor, pairs beautifully with roast beef and can enhance dishes like mashed potatoes. Here’s how to make it easily.
Ingredients:
2 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, pour in the beef broth. Add the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce.
Make Slurry: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a bit of water to create a smooth slurry. This step is essential to ensure the cornstarch dissolves well in the gravy.
Heat the Mixture: Turn the heat on under the saucepan to medium-high. As the mixture heats, stir continuously.
Thicken the Gravy: Once it begins to boil, pour the cornstarch slurry into the saucepan while stirring continuously. This helps the gravy thicken evenly.
Season It: Let it cook for a few more minutes. As the gravy thickens, taste it and season with salt and pepper as desired.
Serve: Serve it warm over roast beef or mashed potatoes.
Why You’ll Love This Au Jus Gravy Mix
Au Jus Gravy Mix is beloved for its ability to add a burst of flavor to simple dishes. The combination of beef broth with soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce creates a complex taste that enhances meats and sides alike. It can transform an ordinary dinner into something special, and the best part is that it takes only a few minutes to prepare!
Nutritional Benefits
Cooking with Au Jus Gravy Mix not only enhances flavor but can also provide some nutritional benefits.
Protein Boost: Beef broth is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Minerals: Beef broth can contain minerals like magnesium and phosphorus, which support bone health and energy production.
Low-Calorie Option: When made from scratch, the gravy can be a low-calorie addition to your meal compared to thicker cream sauces.
What to Serve With Au Jus Gravy Mix
Au Jus Gravy Mix pairs wonderfully with various dishes. Here are some ideas:
| Dish | Description |
|———————-|———————————————–|
| Roast Beef | The classic pairing! Drizzle the gravy over slices for a flavorful boost. |
| Mashed Potatoes | Pour Au Jus over creamy mashed potatoes for extra depth. |
| Meatloaf | Add gravy on top of meatloaf for a savory touch. |
| French Dip Sandwiches | Use as a dipping sauce for a delicious experience. |
| Vegetables | Drizzle over steamed vegetables for added flavor. |
How to Store Au Jus Gravy Mix
If you have leftover Au Jus Gravy, storing it properly ensures that you can enjoy it later. Here are the steps:
Cool Down: Allow the gravy to cool down to room temperature. This prevents condensation in the storage container.
Transfer: Pour the cooled gravy into an airtight container. Glass jars or plastic containers work well.
Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, pour the gravy into ice cube trays, freeze, and then transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. This method is great for portion control.
Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Au Jus Gravy Mix turns out perfect, keep these tips in mind:
Don’t Rush: Allow the gravy to come to a boil slowly. Quick heat can mess with the thickening.
Stir Frequently: Always stir the gravy as it heats to avoid lumps and ensure it thickens properly.
Taste and Adjust: Every broth has a different salt level. Taste your sauce before adding extra salt.
Store Correctly: Avoid long exposure to air in the fridge or freezer to prevent spoilage.
Variations
While the base recipe is fantastic on its own, there are ways to customize your Au Jus Gravy Mix:
Add Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic touch.
Mushroom Flavors: Sauté mushrooms in the pan before adding the broth for a deep, umami flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
FAQs
Can I make Au Jus Gravy Mix without cornstarch?
Yes! You can thicken the gravy with flour instead. Mix equal parts flour and water to create a slurry and follow the same process.
Is Au Jus Gravy Mix gluten-free?
If you want a gluten-free option, ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce, and replace cornstarch with a suitable thickener like tapioca starch.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?
You can substitute vegetable broth for a lighter flavor, but the taste will differ from traditional Au Jus. Spice it up with more seasoning to enhance the flavor.
How can I make a larger batch?
Simply multiply the ingredients proportionately. Keep in mind that you may need a larger saucepan to accommodate the increased volume.
With this guide, making Au Jus Gravy Mix becomes a simple and enjoyable part of your cooking routine. This versatile sauce is sure to impress family and friends, making any meal feel special. Enjoy your culinary journey!