Pork Gravy Recipe

When it comes to creating the perfect pork dish, having a delicious and flavorful pork gravy recipe is essential. 

This versatile sauce adds an extra layer of depth to your meal and can transform even the simplest dishes into a mouthwatering feast. 

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of making the ultimate pork gravy from scratch, discussing the key ingredients and their importance, a step-by-step recipe, and the differences between pork gravy and brown gravy. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about gravy, so you’ll have all the information you need to make the best gravy possible.

What You’ll Need For Roast Pork Gravy

Flour. Flour is used as a thickening agent in gravy, giving it a rich and velvety texture. The most commonly used flour for this purpose is all-purpose flour, but you can also use other types, such as gluten-free flour or cornstarch if you have dietary restrictions.

Salt and pepper. These simple seasonings are essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the pork and other ingredients in the gravy. Adjust the salt and pepper to your preferences.

Butter. Butter adds richness and creaminess to the gravy, as well as helping to create a smooth and glossy texture.

Pork drippings. Using the drippings from your cooked pork roast is key to creating an authentic pork gravy. The drippings are packed with the delicious flavors of the meat and will significantly enhance the taste of your sauce.

Chicken broth. Chicken broth adds depth to the gravy, and is a popular choice because it complements the pork without overpowering it. You can also use pork or vegetable broth if you prefer. If you don’t have chicken broth, you can also use beef broth.

Garlic and onion. These aromatic ingredients add complexity to the gravy, balancing the richness of the pork drippings. If you’re out of either garlic or onions or want to try something new, try using green onions or another substitute.

Herbs. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to create a unique taste.

Making Your Pork Gravy Recipe

Prep time: 5 mins.

Cook time: 20 mins. 

Total time: 25 mins.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup pork drippings
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups chicken broth (or pork broth, if available)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs such as thyme, oregano, rosemary, or sage, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Collect the pork drippings in a small bowl: After cooking your pork roast, reserve 1/4 cup of the drippings from the pan. If you don’t have enough drippings, you can supplement with additional butter.
2. Make the roux (also known as a slurry): In a medium saucepan, small pot or large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the pork drippings and whisk to combine. Gradually add the flour to the butter and drippings mixture, whisking continuously to create a smooth roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to turn golden brown. Note: At any time, if your gravy begins to boil, turn your stove to medium heat to ensure it’s a simmer. You don’t want a rolling boil.
3. Add the broth: Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the gravy is smooth and well combined.
4. Season the gravy: Add salt and pepper to taste. If using fresh herbs, add the finely chopped herbs at this point and stir to incorporate them into the gravy. Remember to start with a small amount of seasoning and adjust as needed.
5. Simmer and thicken: Allow the gravy to simmer over low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired thickness. If the gravy becomes too thick, you can thin it with additional chicken broth.
6. Strain (optional): For an ultra-smooth texture, you can strain the finished gravy through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps or bits of herbs and vegetables.
7. Serve: Pour the warm pork gravy over your favorite pork dish and enjoy the delicious, savory flavors it adds to your meal. The added herbs will provide an extra layer of flavor, enhancing the overall taste.

Recipe Tips

Use high-quality pork drippings.

The drippings from your cooked pork roast are the foundation of your gravy’s flavor. Be sure to use high-quality, well-seasoned drippings to maximize taste.

Deglaze the pan.

After removing your cooked pork roast from the pan, be sure to deglaze the pan by adding a small amount of chicken broth or wine. This will help to release any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan, which can then be incorporated into your gravy.

Season at each step.

To build layers of flavor, season your gravy at each step of the cooking process. Start by seasoning the pork drippings, then add more herbs and spices as needed while cooking the gravy.

Use fresh herbs.

Fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or sage, can make a significant difference in the flavor of your gravy. If you have access to fresh herbs, use them in place of dried herbs for a more vibrant and intense flavor.

Be patient.

Good gravy takes time to develop its full flavor. Allow your gravy to simmer over low heat, and be patient while it thickens and the flavors meld together.

Taste and adjust.

The key to a perfect gravy is tasting and adjusting the flavors as you cook. If your gravy is too thick, you can thin it out with more chicken broth; if it’s too thin, you can thicken it with more flour or cornstarch. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings, as well, to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

Strain the gravy.

To achieve a smooth and silky texture, strain your finished gravy through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps or bits of herbs and vegetables.

Keep it warm.

Gravy can quickly cool down and congeal, affecting its texture and flavor. To prevent this, keep your finished gravy in a warm saucepan or a gravy boat over a low heat source until ready to serve.

3 Time-Saving Recipe Hacks

1. Use store-bought broth. If you were planning on making your own broth, don’t! You can use store-bought broth to save time. Just be sure to choose a high-quality, low-sodium option to maintain good flavor.
2. Use dried herbs. If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand or want to save time on washing and chopping them, you can use dried herbs instead. Remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so you’ll need to use about 1/3 of the amount called for when using fresh herbs.
3. Make ahead and freeze. Though this won’t save you time initially, it will make your life easier down the roast for subsequent meals. Make a large batch of gravy and then freeze. You can even freeze it in an ice cube tray to prevent waste. Just pop out as many cubes as you think you’ll need, defrost, and throw the rest back in the freezer! 

Pork Gravy vs. Brown Gravy

While both pork gravy and brown gravy are delicious, there are some differences between the two. Pork gravy is made using the drippings from a cooked pork roast, which gives it a distinctive, rich pork flavor. Brown gravy, on the other hand, is a more generic type of gravy, often made with beef broth and a variety of seasonings. The choice between the two comes down to personal preference and the dish you’re serving it with.

How to Use Pork Roast Gravy

Pork gravy is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of ways. Here are some suggestions for using your homemade pork gravy:

• Drizzle it over roasted pork tenderloins, a boneless pork loin roast, or pork chops to add moisture.
• Use it as a dipping sauce for slices of cooked pork or other meats.
• Pour it over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a comforting side dish.
• Mix it into a pulled pork sandwich for added richness and taste.
• Incorporate it into a casserole or shepherd’s pie.

Pork Gravy FAQs

What is pork gravy?

Pork gravy is a type of sauce made from the drippings of a cooked pork roast, combined with flour, butter, and various seasonings. It’s typically served as a condiment for roasted pork dishes.

What is pork gravy made of?

Pork gravy is made from a combination of pork drippings, flour, butter, seasonings, and often chicken broth. Other ingredients, such as garlic, onion, and herbs, may also be added.

Is pork gravy and brown gravy the same?

No, pork gravy and brown gravy are not the same. Pork gravy is specifically made using the drippings from a cooked pork roast, while brown gravy is a more generic type of gravy often made with beef broth and a variety of seasonings.

How to make a rich gravy for pork?

To make a rich gravy for pork, use the drippings from your cooked pork roast, along with butter, flour, seasonings, and chicken broth. Cook the mixture over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency, then season with herbs and spices to taste.

What is the secret to good gravy?

The secret to good gravy lies in using high-quality ingredients, such as flavorful pork drippings and a well-seasoned broth. Be sure to whisk the mixture continuously as you cook to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, velvety texture.

What are some other types of gravy?

There are many types of gravy, including turkey gravy, chicken gravy, and sausage gravy. Each type of gravy is made using a similar base of flour, butter, and broth, but the specific ingredients and seasonings will vary depending on the type of meat being used.

With this ultimate pork gravy recipe and guide, you now have everything you need to create a rich sauce that will elevate your pork dishes to new heights. Don’t forget to experiment with different herbs and seasonings to make this pork roast gravy your own, and enjoy the delicious results!

Have questions or suggestions about this pork gravy recipe? Leave them in the comments below.

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