Can you prep weekly gravies using only 4 spice blends?

Question

Can you prep your weekly gravies using only 4 essential spice blends? Learn how a minimalist masala collection can still create a variety of flavors.

Answer 1

Yes, you can absolutely prep weekly gravies using only 4 versatile spice blends. This simplifies your cooking process and ensures consistent flavor profiles.

Detailed Explanation:

Using a limited number of spice blends for weekly gravy preparation is a smart way to streamline your cooking and maintain consistency. Here's how you can achieve this with just four blends:

1. Poultry Seasoning: This blend typically includes herbs like thyme, sage, rosemary, marjoram, and sometimes a touch of black pepper. It's perfect for chicken, turkey, and even pork gravies. Its herbaceous notes complement poultry beautifully.
2. Italian Seasoning: A mix of oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram, Italian seasoning adds a savory and aromatic depth to gravies. It works well with beef, vegetable, and even some chicken gravies, providing a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
3. Garam Masala: This Indian spice blend, usually containing cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, and coriander, brings warmth and complexity. Use it sparingly in beef or lamb gravies for an exotic twist. It adds a rich, slightly sweet, and savory element.
4. Cajun/Creole Seasoning: A blend of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and black pepper, Cajun/Creole seasoning adds a spicy kick and robust flavor. It's excellent for beef, pork, or even a unique chicken gravy, providing a Southern-inspired zest.

By strategically combining these four spice blends, you can create a wide variety of gravy flavors to suit different meals throughout the week. Remember to adjust the amount of each blend to your taste preference.

Pro Tip:

Create small batches of gravy base (roux or broth) ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. This allows you to quickly finish the gravy by adding your chosen spice blend and adjusting the seasoning just before serving, saving you even more time during the week.