Balsamic Mushroom Gravy Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Whisk
- Saucepan

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.

3. Add the chopped mushrooms and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the flour to the saucepan and whisk until the mixture is smooth.

5. Gradually add the chicken or vegetable broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

6. Add the balsamic vinegar and dried thyme, and continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.

7. Bring the gravy to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy has thickened.

8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.


- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- Makes about 2 cups of gravy

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use beef broth instead of chicken or vegetable broth for a richer flavor.
- You can use fresh thyme instead of dried thyme, but use twice as much.

Variations:
- Add chopped cooked bacon or sausage for a meatier gravy.
- Use different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, for a different flavor.
- Add a splash of cream or milk for a creamier gravy.

Tips and tricks:
- Whisk constantly while adding the broth to prevent lumps from forming.
- If the gravy is too thick, add more broth or water to thin it out.
- If the gravy is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to thicken it.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the gravy in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the gravy in a gravy boat or pour it over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or meat.

Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top of the gravy for a pop of color.

Pairings:
- Serve the gravy with roasted chicken, beef, pork, or turkey.

Suggested side dishes:
- Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the gravy is too salty, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to balance out the flavors.
- If the gravy is too sour, add a pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the gravy to a safe internal temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.

Food history:
- Gravy has been a staple of European cuisine for centuries, and is typically made with meat drippings, flour, and broth.

Flavor profiles:
- This balsamic mushroom gravy is savory, tangy, and slightly sweet, with a rich umami flavor from the mushrooms.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the gravy hot or warm, and enjoy with your favorite meat or vegetable dishes.

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Taste: Savory, Tangy, Rich, Earthy, Umami