KFC-Style Gravy

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, few things are as satisfying as a generous serving of rich, flavorful gravy over a heaping mound of mashed potatoes or crispy fried chicken. I recently tried my hand at making a KFC-style gravy at home, and let me tell you, it was a game changer! This gravy is so rich and flavorful that my family couldn’t stop raving about it. They were amazed at how closely it resembled the real deal, just like the kind you’d expect from a fast-food joint. Now, this recipe has become a staple in our kitchen, perfectly complementing our comfort meals. Here’s how you can whip up this delicious KFC-style gravy to impress your family at your next dinner!

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes, whisking constantly, until the mixture turns a light golden brown.
2. Add the Broths: Slowly add the chicken broth and beef broth to the roux, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
3. Season the Gravy: Add the onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined.
4. Simmer: Bring the gravy to a simmer, whisking occasionally, and cook for 5-7 minutes until thickened to your desired consistency.
5. Taste and Adjust: Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve: Serve hot over mashed potatoes, fried chicken, or your favorite comfort foods.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4-6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 80 calories

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the gravy over mashed potatoes for a classic comfort dish.
• Drizzle over fried chicken to add a rich and savory flavor.
• Use as a dipping sauce for biscuits or fried foods.
• Pour over a warm meatloaf for an extra savory touch.
• Serve with roasted vegetables for a hearty, comforting meal.

Additional Tips

1. Whisk Constantly: To avoid lumps in your gravy, whisk continuously while adding the broth to the roux.
2. Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thinner gravy, simply add more chicken or beef broth until you reach your desired consistency.
3. Butter Variations: You can use flavored butter (like garlic butter) for added flavor in the gravy.
4. Broth Quality: Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of your gravy, and feel free to use homemade broth for an extra depth of flavor.
5. Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Recipe Variations

• Creamy Mushroom Gravy: Add sautéed mushrooms to the gravy for a delicious twist.
• Herbed Gravy: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic flavor.
• Spicy Gravy: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken and beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly gravy.
• Onion Gravy: Sauté diced onions in the butter before adding the flour to create a rich onion flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the gravy with a side of crispy fried chicken and buttery mashed potatoes for a classic dinner.
• Serve with a fresh salad to balance the richness of the gravy.
• Enjoy with baked potatoes topped with cheese and chives for a comforting meal.
• Use as a sauce over rice or quinoa for a quick weeknight dinner.
• Drizzle over biscuits for a satisfying breakfast or brunch dish.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: Gravy can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then heat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to adjust the consistency.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use all chicken broth instead of mixing with beef broth?

• Yes, you can use all chicken broth if you prefer a lighter flavor.

1. What can I use if I don’t have onion powder?

• You can substitute with fresh diced onions; just sauté them in the butter before adding the flour.

1. Is this gravy gluten-free?

• No, this recipe contains flour. You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.

1. How do I make the gravy thicker?

• Cook it a little longer to evaporate some liquid, or whisk in a slurry made of flour and water.

1. Can I use cornstarch instead of flour?

• Yes, you can use cornstarch as a thickener. Mix cornstarch with cold water and add it to the gravy as it simmers.

1. What if my gravy is too salty?

• To balance out the saltiness, you can add a small amount of cream or unsalted broth to dilute the flavor.

1. Can I add meat drippings to the gravy?

• Yes, adding drippings from roasted chicken or turkey will enhance the flavor.

1. How long can I store leftovers?

• Leftover gravy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

1. What can I do with leftover gravy?

• Use it to top biscuits, meatloaf, or even as a sauce for shepherd’s pie.

1. Can I make this gravy ahead of time?

• Yes, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it just before serving.

Conclusion

This KFC-style gravy is a rich and flavorful addition to any meal, elevating simple dishes like mashed potatoes and fried chicken into something truly special. The blend of savory broth, creamy butter, and spices creates a comforting sauce that is reminiscent of the classic restaurant favorite. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just want to indulge in some comfort food, this gravy is sure to impress. With its easy preparation and versatility, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, whip up this delicious gravy, and savor the comfort of home-cooked goodness!

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