Can gravies be made in bulk and modified daily for variety?

Question

Can you make gravies in bulk and then modify them daily for variety? Get the recipe for a master curry base that can be customized for different dishes.

Answer 1

Yes, gravies can be made in bulk as a base and then modified daily with different herbs, spices, vegetables, or proteins to create a variety of flavors. This is a common practice in professional kitchens to save time and ensure consistency.

Detailed Explanation:

Making a large batch of a neutral gravy base is an efficient way to streamline meal preparation. Here's how you can do it:

1. Prepare a Neutral Gravy Base: Start with a basic recipe using a roux (equal parts fat and flour) and a flavorful stock (chicken, beef, vegetable, or a combination). Season lightly with salt and pepper. The key is to keep it relatively bland so it can be easily adapted.
2. Cool and Store Properly: Once the gravy base is made, cool it down quickly to prevent bacterial growth. Divide it into smaller portions and store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze it for longer storage (up to 2-3 months).
3. Daily Modifications: Each day, take out a portion of the gravy base and customize it to create a different flavor profile. Here are some ideas:
   • Herbaceous Gravy: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, parsley, or sage.
   • Spicy Gravy: Incorporate spices like chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper.
   • Vegetable Gravy: Sauté vegetables like mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or tomatoes and add them to the gravy.
   • Meat Gravy: Brown ground meat, sausage, or bacon and stir it into the gravy.
   • Creamy Gravy: Add cream, sour cream, or yogurt for a richer texture and flavor.
4. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning after adding your modifications. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to balance the flavors.

Pro Tip:

When reheating gravy, whisk it frequently to prevent lumps from forming. If lumps do appear, use an immersion blender or whisk vigorously to smooth it out. Adding a small amount of cold water or stock can also help to thin the gravy if it becomes too thick during reheating.