How to fix overly thick cashew-based gravies?

Question

Discover ways to adjust and thin out dense, rich cashew gravies.

Answer 1

To fix an overly thick cashew-based gravy, gradually add warm water or vegetable broth, stirring constantly, until you reach the desired consistency. A squeeze of lemon juice can also help balance the richness.

Detailed Explanation:

Cashew-based gravies can sometimes become too thick due to the high starch content of cashews. When blended, cashews release these starches, which thicken the gravy as it cooks. Here's a step-by-step guide to thinning it out:

1. Assess the Thickness: First, determine how much thinner you want the gravy to be. This will help you gauge how much liquid to add.

2. Add Liquid Gradually: Use warm water or vegetable broth. Adding cold liquid can shock the gravy and potentially affect its texture. Start with a small amount, about 1-2 tablespoons at a time.

3. Stir Continuously: As you add the liquid, stir the gravy constantly to ensure it's evenly incorporated and to prevent lumps from forming.

4. Simmer Briefly: After adding the liquid and stirring, let the gravy simmer gently for a minute or two. This allows the flavors to meld and the gravy to thicken slightly again, giving you a better sense of the final consistency.

5. Taste and Adjust: Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning as needed. Adding liquid can dilute the flavors, so you might need to add a pinch of salt, pepper, or other spices.

6. Add Acidity (Optional): A squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar can help cut through the richness of the cashews and balance the flavor profile, especially if the gravy is very heavy.

Pro Tip:

When blending cashews for gravy, soak them in hot water for at least 30 minutes (or even better, overnight) before blending. This softens them, resulting in a smoother, less starchy gravy that's less likely to become overly thick in the first place.