Pork gravy is the perfect way to enhance the flavor of any pork dish. Not only does it add a delicious touch to your meal, but it also helps to keep it moist and tender. The best thing about this gravy is that it is incredibly easy to make, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. In this article, we’ll walk you through the simple steps needed to create delicious and flavorful pork gravy that will impress your family and friends.

To start off, you’ll need to gather a few key ingredients. The most important is the pork drippings from the pan you cooked your pork in. You’ll also need flour, seasoning, and some broth or water to thin out the gravy as needed. With just these few ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering gravy that will elevate your pork dish to new heights. So, without further ado, let’s get started on how to make pork gravy.

How to Make Pork Gravy Like a Pro

Anyone can make gravy from scratch, and pork gravy is no exception. A flavorful and delicious gravy will add extra zest to your meals. Here’s what you need to know to make the perfect pork gravy that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Choose the Right Cut of Pork

The first and most crucial step in making pork gravy is choosing the right cut of pork. Pick a cut with plenty of fat, such as a pork shoulder, to enhance the gravy’s richness. The fat will also provide enough flavor and grease to help thicken the gravy.

Season the Pork

Once you’ve got your pork cut, season it appropriately. Use a blend of herbs and spices that will complement your dish. You can opt to go for the classic flavors of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder or experiment with more exotic flavors like smoked paprika and cumin.

Sear the Pork

Next, it’s time to sear the pork. You can do this by placing the seasoned pork in a hot skillet with oil, cooking each side until golden brown. This step will create a seared rich flavor on the pork and result in unmatched savory flavors in your gravy.

Add Vegetables and Herbs

To enhance the flavors of your pork gravy, add vegetables that complement pork such as onions, carrots, and celery. Also, add herbs like sage, rosemary, and thyme for extra seasoning and aroma.

Use Stock as Your Base

To cook the pork and vegetables properly, use pork stock as the base for your gravy. The stock will give an excellent base for all other ingredients and ensure that your flavors come together perfectly.

Cook Slow and Low

Pork gravy takes time to simmer correctly. Start by cooking the pork and vegetables over medium heat until the pork is almost cooked. Turn the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for an additional 30-40 minutes.

Thicken the Gravy with a Roux

A roux is a simple mixture of flour and fat that is used to thicken gravy. To make a roux, melt a few tablespoons of butter in a saucepan, add an equal amount of flour, and stir well until it forms a thick paste. Whisk the roux into the simmering gravy and cook for a few more minutes, and it will thicken like magic.

Season to Taste

Once your gravy has thickened, take a taste to adjust the seasoning if needed. Add salt, pepper, and additional herbs for a balanced flavor before serving.

Use Strainer to Remove Any Large Pieces

Before serving, remove any large pieces of spices, vegetables, or herbs using a strainer. You can opt to leave some smaller pieces in for texture and added flavor.

Enjoy Your Pork Gravy

Serve your homemade pork gravy over mashed potatoes, fried chicken, biscuits, or any other dish that you prefer. It will not only add flavor and richness but also make your meals more enjoyable.

Conclusion

Making pork gravy from scratch is a simple process that requires patience, attention to detail, and the right ingredients. With these ten steps, you should be able to make perfect pork gravy like a pro. So, go ahead, get your pork cut, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Now that you know the basics of making pork gravy, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to create a savory and delicious sauce.

1. Pork Drippings
The first and most important ingredient in making pork gravy is collecting the pork drippings. After cooking your pork, be sure to collect the drippings from the pan and set them aside in a measuring cup or separate container.

2. Flour
Flour is essential in thickening the pork drippings and transforming them into a creamy, velvety sauce. Be sure to use all-purpose flour for best results.

3. Chicken or Beef Broth
In addition to the pork drippings, you’ll need to add some type of broth to the mixture. Chicken or beef broth are great options and add an extra layer of flavor to the gravy.

4. Salt and Pepper
Seasoning is key when it comes to making gravy. Add salt and pepper to taste, being careful not to overdo it as the pork drippings already contain a lot of flavor.

5. Butter or Oil
To prevent the pork drippings from scorching and sticking to the pan, you’ll want to add a tablespoon of either butter or oil to the mixture.

6. Onion and Garlic (optional)
For an extra kick of flavor, you can include diced onions and minced garlic in the recipe. While not necessary, they add a depth of flavor that complements the pork drippings nicely.

7. Fresh Herbs (optional)
If you have fresh herbs on hand such as thyme or rosemary, feel free to add them into the mixture. Fresh herbs add an earthy dimension to the gravy and make the dish feel more gourmet.

8. Worcestershire Sauce (optional)
Another ingredient you may choose to include is Worcestershire sauce. This flavorful sauce adds a tang and depth to the gravy that’s hard to replicate with other ingredients.

9. Red or White Wine (optional)
For an extra layer of complexity in flavor, some people choose to add either red or white wine to their pork gravy. This is a matter of personal preference and can be skipped if desired.

10. Cornstarch (optional)
If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can add a teaspoon of cornstarch to the mixture. This will give it a richer texture and make it adhere better to your food.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to start making your own pork gravy. Let’s get started!

Secret Ingredients to Level Up Your Pork Gravy

Making pork gravy may seem easy, but you can make it extra special by adding some secret ingredients. Here are some suggestions:

Ingredient Description
Bacon Adding bits of bacon to your pork gravy will give it a rich, smoky flavor. Fry the bacon first, then use the grease to make the roux.
Apple cider vinegar Just a splash of apple cider vinegar can brighten up the flavors of your pork gravy.
Dried mushrooms Rehydrate dried mushrooms in hot water and use the flavorful liquid to enhance the gravy. Chop up the mushrooms and add them to the gravy as well.
Balsamic vinegar Another type of vinegar that can add depth and complexity to your pork gravy.
Fresh herbs Chop up some fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage and add it to your gravy for an extra layer of flavor.

1. Bacon Grease and Roux

As previously mentioned, using bacon grease to make your roux can give your pork gravy a rich and smoky flavor. To do this, cook some bacon until it’s crispy, then remove it from the pan and set it aside. Leave the grease in the pan and add flour to make the roux. Use the roux as the base for your pork gravy.

2. Wine

Adding wine to your pork gravy can give it a complex and sophisticated taste. Red wine is traditionally used in beef gravy, but you can experiment with different types of wine to see what works best for you. Start by adding a small amount of wine and taste the gravy as you go.

3. Brown Sugar

If you’re making a sweeter gravy, try adding some brown sugar to the mix. The sugar will help balance out the flavors and make the gravy taste less salty. Be careful not to add too much sugar, or your gravy may become too sweet.

4. Tomato Paste

Tomato paste can add a rich, tangy flavor to your pork gravy. Add it to the roux or the pan drippings and stir until it’s fully incorporated. You may also want to add a pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomato paste.

5. Soy Sauce

Believe it or not, soy sauce can enhance the flavors of your pork gravy. It adds a salty, umami taste that pairs well with the meat. Add a small amount and adjust to taste.

In conclusion, making pork gravy is not rocket science. However, you can take it to the next level by experimenting with different ingredients and flavors. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try new things. Who knows? You may end up with a signature pork gravy recipe that will impress all of your friends and family!

Enjoy Your Delicious Pork Gravy!

And there you have it, folks! Your very own homemade pork gravy is ready to enjoy. It’s rich, savory, and perfect for smothering pork chops, mashed potatoes, or anything else you like. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and herbs to make it truly your own. Thanks for reading, and be sure to come back for more tasty recipes and cooking tips in the future!