Gravy is a delicious addition to any meal, adding depth and flavor to dishes like roasted meats, mashed potatoes, and more. However, for those following a Paleo diet, finding a gravy that meets dietary restrictions can be challenging. Traditional gravy recipes often use flour or other thickeners that aren’t Paleo-friendly. But don’t worry—making a rich, flavorful gravy that aligns with Paleo principles is easy, especially when you use bone broth as your base. This blog will guide you through creating a delicious Paleo-friendly gravy using bone broth, perfect for enhancing your favorite meals.
Why Bone Broth?
Bone broth is a nutrient-rich liquid made by simmering the bones and connective tissue of animals. It’s not only a staple in Paleo cuisine but also revered for its health benefits, including supporting gut health and providing a rich source of minerals. Using bone broth as the base for your gravy not only aligns with Paleo dietary principles but also adds a depth of flavor and nutrition that store-bought broths can’t match.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Paleo-friendly gravy, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of high-quality bone broth (chicken, beef, or turkey depending on your preference)
- 1-2 tablespoons ghee or fatty drippings from your roast (ghee is clarified butter that’s Paleo-friendly)
- 2 tablespoons arrowroot powder or tapioca flour (as a Paleo-friendly thickener)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, garlic, and onion for added flavor
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Paleo-Friendly Gravy
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by ensuring all your ingredients are ready. If you’re using ghee, have it measured out. If you’re using drippings from a roast, you’ll want to skim off some of the fat after cooking. Make sure your bone broth is defrosted if it was in the freezer, and have your arrowroot powder or tapioca flour on hand.
2. Heat Your Fat
In a medium saucepan, heat your ghee or roast drippings over medium heat. If you’re adding flavor enhancers like minced garlic or diced onions, now’s the time to add them. Cook until translucent and fragrant, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
3. Create a Roux
Sprinkle the arrowroot powder or tapioca flour into the saucepan, whisking continuously. You’re aiming to create a smooth paste—this is called a roux, and it’s the key to a thick gravy. Cook for a minute to remove the raw flour taste, but don’t let it darken.
4. Add Bone Broth
Slowly pour the bone broth into the saucepan, constantly whisking to blend it with the roux. This step is crucial to avoid lumps in your gravy. Once all the broth is added, bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Season and Simmer
Now it’s time to season your gravy. Add salt and pepper to taste, and feel free to add any herbs or spices you enjoy. Let the gravy simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired thickness. Remember, the gravy will continue to thicken as it cools.
6. Strain (Optional)
For an extra-smooth gravy, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any bits of herbs, onion, or garlic. This step is optional and depends on your texture preference.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Your Paleo-friendly gravy is ready to serve! Pour it over your dishes while it’s warm. Any leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a few days and reheated as needed.
Tips for Perfect Paleo Gravy
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices until you find your perfect gravy flavor.
- Adjust Thickness: If your gravy is too thin, you can simmer it longer to reduce it further. If it’s too thick, simply whisk in a little more bone broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Use Quality Ingredients: The better the quality of your bone broth and fats, the tastier your gravy will be.
Creating delicious Paleo-friendly gravy with bone broth is simple and rewarding. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can make a gravy that’s not only compliant with your dietary needs but also rich in flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just looking to elevate your weeknight meals, this gravy is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
