How to Make Old-Fashioned Ham Gravy – Step by Step Guide and Tips

Introduction

Old-fashioned ham gravy is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. Whether you’re making it to go with your favorite biscuits or as a side dish for a holiday feast, making homemade ham gravy can be an enjoyable experience. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect old-fashioned ham gravy, as well as tips and tricks for making sure your gravy comes out just right.

Overview of Old-Fashioned Ham Gravy

Old-fashioned ham gravy is a type of white sauce that is typically made with diced ham, flour, milk, butter, and seasonings. It is usually served over biscuits, mashed potatoes, or other types of breads or starches. The flavor of the gravy can vary depending on the type of ham used, as well as the spices added. Although there are many variations, the traditional version of old-fashioned ham gravy is still one of the most popular ways to enjoy this classic comfort food.

Why Make Old-Fashioned Ham Gravy?

Making old-fashioned ham gravy is a great way to enjoy a classic comfort food while adding a personal touch to your family meal. Unlike store-bought versions, homemade ham gravy is free of preservatives and artificial flavors, which makes it a healthier option. Additionally, making ham gravy from scratch allows you to customize the flavor to your preference. You can choose different types of ham and adjust the amount of seasonings to create a unique flavor that your family will love.

Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Make Old-Fashioned Ham Gravy

Making old-fashioned ham gravy is easy and requires just a few simple steps. Follow the instructions below for the best results:

Gather Ingredients

The first step in making old-fashioned ham gravy is to gather all of the necessary ingredients. You will need diced ham, flour, butter, milk, and seasonings. Depending on your preference, you can also add additional ingredients such as garlic, onions, celery, and herbs.

Begin Cooking

Once you have gathered all of the ingredients, begin cooking the diced ham in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until the ham is lightly browned and cooked through. Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside.

Add Additional Ingredients

To the same skillet, add the butter and allow it to melt. Once the butter is melted, add the flour and stir until combined. Cook the mixture for a few minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour is lightly browned. Then, slowly whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and thickened.

Simmer and Stir

Next, add the cooked ham, seasonings, and any additional ingredients to the mixture. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy has thickened to the desired consistency.

Check for Taste and Texture

Before serving, taste the gravy and adjust the seasonings as needed. If the gravy is too thick, add additional milk. If the gravy is too thin, add a bit more flour. Once the gravy is at the desired consistency and flavor, it is ready to serve.

A Guide to Making the Perfect Old-Fashioned Ham Gravy

Making the perfect old-fashioned ham gravy takes practice and patience, but there are some tips and tricks you can use to get the best results. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making your gravy:

What Type of Ham Should You Use?

When making old-fashioned ham gravy, it is important to use the right type of ham. For the best results, look for a high-quality, smoked ham that has not been processed or cured. The smoky flavor of the ham will give the gravy a rich, savory flavor.

What Types of Flour Should You Use?

When making the roux (the mixture of flour and butter), it is important to use the right type of flour. All-purpose flour is the most common type of flour used for making gravy, but you can also use other types such as whole wheat flour or almond flour for a slightly different flavor.

What Type of Milk Should You Use?

For the best results, use whole milk when making old-fashioned ham gravy. Whole milk will give the gravy a richer, creamier texture. However, if you prefer a lighter gravy, you can use skim milk or a non-dairy milk alternative.

What Types of Spices Should You Use?

When it comes to seasoning the gravy, the sky is the limit. Common spices used for old-fashioned ham gravy include black pepper, thyme, sage, rosemary, and nutmeg. You can also add garlic, onions, celery, or any other herbs and spices that you prefer.

The Secret to Delicious Old-Fashioned Ham Gravy

Making delicious old-fashioned ham gravy requires more than just the right ingredients; it also requires the right technique. Here are a few tips for making the perfect gravy every time:

Low and Slow Cooking

When making old-fashioned ham gravy, it is important to cook the mixture slowly and at a low temperature. This will ensure that the gravy has time to thicken properly and that the flavors have time to fully develop.

Using Quality Ingredients

Using quality ingredients is essential for making a delicious ham gravy. Choose a high-quality ham and fresh herbs and spices for the best flavor. Additionally, opt for whole milk instead of skim milk for a richer, creamier texture.

Adding a Little Bit of Fat

Adding a little bit of fat, such as butter or bacon grease, can help to enhance the flavor of the gravy. Adding a small amount of fat will also help to keep the gravy from becoming too thick.

Not Overcooking

It is important not to overcook the gravy. As soon as the gravy reaches the desired thickness, remove it from the heat. Overcooking the gravy can cause it to become too thick or grainy.

Tips and Tricks for Making Perfect Old-Fashioned Ham Gravy

Making perfect old-fashioned ham gravy can be tricky, but here are a few tips and tricks to help you get the best results:

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is key to making a delicious ham gravy. Fresh herbs and spices will give the gravy a much better flavor than dried herbs and spices. Additionally, using fresh ham instead of pre-cooked ham will give the gravy a richer, smokier flavor.

Don’t Overcook

As mentioned above, it is important not to overcook the gravy. Overcooking the gravy can cause it to become too thick or grainy. To avoid this, check the consistency of the gravy frequently and remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches the desired thickness.

Taste as You Go

Tasting the gravy as you go is the best way to make sure it turns out just right. As you add ingredients, take a spoonful of the gravy and taste it. This will allow you to adjust the seasonings and make sure the gravy has the perfect flavor.

Adjust the Seasonings

Finally, don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings as needed. Depending on your preferences, you may want to add more salt, pepper, or other herbs and spices. Taste the gravy and adjust the seasonings as needed until you get the flavor you desire.

An Easy Recipe for Making Old-Fashioned Ham Gravy

Now that you know how to make old-fashioned ham gravy, here is an easy recipe that you can follow:

Ingredients

• 1 cup diced ham
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon each of black pepper, thyme, and sage
• Optional: garlic, onions, celery, and other herbs and spices

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced ham until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove the ham from the skillet and set aside.
2. To the same skillet, add the butter and allow it to melt. Once the butter is melted, add the flour and stir until combined. Cook the mixture for a few minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour is lightly browned.
3. Slowly whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and thickened. Add the cooked ham, seasonings, and any additional ingredients to the mixture.
4. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy has thickened to the desired consistency. Taste the gravy and adjust the seasonings as needed.
5. Serve the gravy over biscuits, mashed potatoes, or your favorite starch.

Learn How to Make Old-Fashioned Ham Gravy in No Time

If you’re short on time but still want to enjoy the delicious flavor of old-fashioned ham gravy, there are a few shortcuts you can take to make the process easier. Here are a few tips for making your gravy in no time:

Shortcuts to Make the Process Easier

If you’re short on time, you can use canned or pre-cooked ham to save time. Additionally, you can use pre-made roux or pre-seasoned gravies to speed up the process. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings as needed to get the flavor you desire.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

If your gravy is too thick, add additional milk. If the gravy is too thin, add a bit more flour. If the gravy is too salty, add a splash of vinegar or a pinch of sugar. Finally, if the gravy is too bland, add additional seasonings to taste.

The Best Way to Make Old-Fashioned Ham Gravy

Making old-fashioned ham gravy doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right equipment and a bit of patience, you can make delicious gravy every time. Here are a few tips for making the best gravy:

Use the Right Equipment

It is important to use the right equipment when making old-fashioned ham gravy. A large skillet is best for cooking the ham and making the roux. Additionally, a whisk is the best tool for stirring the gravy and ensuring a smooth, lump-free texture.

Follow Directions Carefully

When making old-fashioned ham gravy, it is important to follow the directions carefully. Pay attention to the temperature and cooking time, as these will affect the texture and flavor of the gravy. Additionally, make sure to taste the gravy as you go and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Take Your Time

Finally, take your time when making the gravy. Low and slow cooking is the key to making a delicious gravy. Allow the gravy to simmer and thicken slowly, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired consistency.

Conclusion

Old-fashioned ham gravy is a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed year-round. Making the perfect gravy takes practice and patience, but with the right ingredients and techniques, you can create a delicious gravy that your family will love. By following these tips and using the easy recipe provided, you’ll be able to make the perfect old-fashioned ham gravy in no time.

The benefits of making old-fashioned ham gravy from scratch are plentiful. Not only is it a healthier option than store-bought gravy, but it also allows you to customize the flavor to your preference. So why not give it a try? With the right ingredients and a bit of patience, you can make the perfect old-fashioned ham gravy in no time.