If you love the rich, savory flavor that only ham drippings can bring, this Ham Drippings Gravy Recipe is an absolute game changer. The beauty of this gravy lies in its simplicity and ability to elevate any meal, turning leftover ham or mashed potatoes into a mouthwatering feast. It’s silky, comforting, and packed with that deep, smoky essence that you just can’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just craving a cozy weekday treat, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for adding that perfect finishing touch of flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for just a handful of basic pantry staples, but each one is crucial in building the rich, velvety texture and savory taste that defines a great gravy. These ingredients come together to enhance the natural goodness of your ham drippings with ease and confidence.
- Butter: Adds a luscious richness and helps create a smooth base for your gravy.
- All-Purpose Flour: Acts as the thickening agent to give your gravy that perfect, silky consistency.
- Ham Drippings: The star ingredient that infuses the gravy with smoky, meaty depth and irresistible flavor.
How to Make Ham Drippings Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Start by melting your butter over medium low heat in a large saucepan. Patience here pays off because melting it gently without browning keeps the base flavorful and smooth.
Step 2: Stir in the Flour
Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir it continuously for 1 to 2 minutes. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and forms a roux, the essential foundation for a silky gravy.
Step 3: Whisk in the Ham Drippings
Slowly whisk in your ham drippings, ensuring the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. This step infuses the roux with all that smoky, savory goodness that defines the Ham Drippings Gravy Recipe.
Step 4: Bring to a Simmer
Turn the heat up to medium and bring the gravy to a gentle simmer. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the texture to start thickening.
Step 5: Simmer Until Thickened
Let the gravy simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This quiet cooking time gives the flour enough chance to thicken the gravy perfectly while developing a rich, glossy finish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Ham Drippings Gravy Recipe is now ready to be ladled generously over your favorite dishes. Whether on ham slices, mashed potatoes, or biscuits, this gravy brings phenomenal flavor to every bite.
How to Serve Ham Drippings Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Consider sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley or a little cracked black pepper on your gravy for a fresh pop of color and subtle bite. A light garnish not only looks inviting but also adds a little brightness that balances the rich sauce.
Side Dishes
This gravy pairs exceptionally well with classic sides like fluffy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or buttery dinner rolls. It also makes a wonderful companion to green beans, sautéed greens, or even creamy polenta, adding a luscious layer of flavor to simple dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try using this gravy as a sauce for open-faced sandwiches piled high with sliced ham and cheese, or drizzle it over a breakfast breakfast skillet for a savory twist. You can even blend it with a little cream for a richer, velvety sauce perfect for holiday brunch spreads.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover gravy, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!
Freezing
You can freeze this gravy in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just be sure to leave some space at the top for expansion, and thaw slowly in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your gravy gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If it’s too thick, whisk in a splash of broth or water to revive its creamy consistency without losing flavor.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought ham drippings?
While fresh ham drippings from a roast are best for that authentic flavor, store-bought or pan drippings can work in a pinch. Just taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly since their intensity can vary.
What if I don’t have ham drippings?
If you’re fresh out of ham drippings, you can substitute with a combination of butter and ham broth or stock for some of that smoky flavor, though it won’t be quite as intense or rich.
How do I get a lump-free gravy?
Whisking consistently while adding the ham drippings and cooking the roux properly ensures smoothness. If lumps do form, strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve or use an immersion blender briefly.
Can I make this gravy gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch mixed with cold water for thickening, adjusting quantities to get your desired texture.
Is it possible to make this gravy dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap butter for a plant-based fat like olive oil or coconut oil. The flavor will differ slightly, but it will still be delicious and creamy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply satisfying about a silky, savory gravy made from ham drippings — it brings warmth and a perfect touch of comfort to any meal. This Ham Drippings Gravy Recipe proves that you don’t need complicated steps or fancy ingredients to create something truly memorable. I hope you give it a try and discover just how delicious simple, homemade gravy can be. Your taste buds will thank you every time!
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Ham Drippings Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2.2 cups
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and savory ham gravy made from simple ingredients including butter, flour, and flavorful ham drippings. Perfect to drizzle over ham, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dishes for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons Butter
- 3 Tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
- 2 Cups Ham Drippings
Instructions
- Melt the butter: Melt the butter over medium low heat in a large saucepan, ensuring it does not brown to maintain a smooth flavor base.
- Add the flour: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the gravy and eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Incorporate ham drippings: Gradually whisk in the ham drippings, mixing thoroughly to prevent lumps and to combine the roux with the flavorful drippings.
- Simmer the gravy: Increase heat to medium and bring the mixture to a simmer, which helps activate the thickening properties of the roux and develop deeper flavors.
- Thicken the gravy: Continue to simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Pour the warm ham gravy over ham, mashed potatoes, or your favorite sides and enjoy the rich, comforting taste.
Notes
- Make sure to cook the flour adequately to avoid a raw flour taste in the gravy.
- If the gravy becomes too thick, thin it with a little water or broth to reach your preferred consistency.
- For a smoother gravy, strain before serving to remove any lumps.
- You can store leftover gravy in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and gently reheat before serving.
- Ham drippings can vary in saltiness; adjust seasoning accordingly after cooking.
