If you’re following a ketogenic diet, finding low-carb versions of classic comfort foods can be a challenge. Gravy, often made with flour and high-carb thickeners, seems like one of those indulgences you have to give up. But don’t worry—there’s a way to enjoy rich, flavorful gravy without compromising your keto goals!
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make a delicious, keto-friendly gravy that’s just as satisfying as the original. Whether you’re pouring it over roast beef, chicken, or low-carb sides, this gravy will quickly become a staple at your table.
How to Make Keto Gravy Recipe
Ingredients:
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- 2 cups chicken or beef broth (unsalted)
- 2 tbsp butter (or ghee for dairy-free)
- 1 tsp xanthan gum (as a thickening agent)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp heavy cream (for a creamier gravy)
Substitutions:
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- Instead of traditional flour, use xanthan gum to thicken the gravy. This low-carb alternative works perfectly in keto recipes.
- For dairy-free options, swap butter with ghee or coconut oil.
Instructions:
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- In a medium saucepan, heat the butter over medium heat until melted.
- Slowly whisk in the broth, stirring constantly to ensure the mixture stays smooth.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and stir well to combine.
- Gradually sprinkle the xanthan gum while whisking. This helps prevent clumping.
- Cook the gravy for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken. Stir occasionally to ensure even consistency.
- For a creamier texture, add heavy cream and cook for another minute.
- If the gravy becomes too thick, thin it out by adding more broth, a little at a time. If it’s not thick enough, sprinkle in a pinch more xanthan gum.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Troubleshooting Tips:
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- Gravy too thick? Add more broth a tablespoon at a time, whisking constantly to reach the desired consistency.
- Gravy not thick enough? Whisk in a small amount of xanthan gum, making sure to sprinkle it in slowly to avoid lumps.
- Lumpy gravy? Use an immersion blender to smooth it out, or pass the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve.
Keto Gravy Variations
If you’re looking to switch up the flavor, here are a few easy variations to try:
Mushroom Gravy:
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- Sauté 1 cup of finely chopped mushrooms in butter before adding the broth. Proceed with the recipe as usual.
Herb Gravy:
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- Add 1 tbsp of finely chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or sage) during cooking for an aromatic twist.
Garlic Gravy:
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- Roast a few cloves of garlic, mash them, and whisk them into the gravy for a richer, more intense flavor.
Spicy Gravy:
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- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or 1 tsp of hot sauce to give the gravy a little heat.
Each variation can be easily adapted from the base recipe—just mix in the suggested ingredients at the right stage.
Serving Suggestions
Keto gravy is incredibly versatile. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy it:
- Over Meat: Drizzle it over roasted or grilled meats like beef, chicken, turkey, or pork.
- Vegetable Dip: Use it as a flavorful dip for keto-friendly vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or green beans.
- With Keto Sides: Serve it with mashed cauliflower, zucchini noodles, or other low-carb side dishes for a full meal experience.
Tips and Tricks
Making keto gravy can be easy with these extra tips:
- High-Quality Ingredients: Using good-quality broth and butter makes a noticeable difference in the flavor of your gravy.
- Consistency Control: If your gravy is too thick, adding a splash of broth will help. If it’s too thin, xanthan gum can thicken it up quickly.
- Leftovers: Store any leftover gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding more broth if needed to thin it out.
- Flavor Enhancers: Feel free to add more seasoning, like Worcestershire sauce or liquid aminos, to boost the savory flavors.
Nutritional Information (Optional)
For one serving (approximately 1/4 cup of gravy), the approximate nutritional breakdown is:
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 9g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 0.5g
- Net Carbs: 0.5g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
Making keto-friendly gravy is much easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients and some creativity, you can create a flavorful, low-carb alternative to traditional gravy. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the delicious variations, this keto gravy will be a hit at your next meal. So go ahead, pour it over your favorite dishes, and enjoy a satisfying, keto-friendly indulgence!
