Savor the Richness: Mastering James Martin’s Signature Onion Gravy at Home

Nothing beats the heartwarming comfort of a well-made gravy, and this onion gravy, inspired by James Martin’s style, is no exception. It’s a recipe I’ve turned to time and again, tweaking it slightly each time to perfect its rich, savory depth. This gravy pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, from traditional roasts to mashed potatoes, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

How To Make James Martin Onion Gravy Recipe Overview

This onion gravy is a delightful blend of sweetness and depth, thanks to the caramelized onions and the blend of Madeira, sherry, and red wine. It takes about 45 minutes to prepare and yields approximately 600ml of gravy, perfect for serving around 4-6 people. The use of veal jus as a base gives it an incredible depth of flavor, but you can substitute it with a good quality beef stock if needed.

Ingredients

• 6 onions, peeled and thinly sliced
• 50g unsalted butter
• 1 liter veal jus or high-quality beef stock
• 200ml Madeira
• 50ml sherry
• 100ml red wine

Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Deglaze with Alcohol: Increase the heat to medium-high and add Madeira and sherry. Let it simmer and reduce by half, scraping any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
3. Add Jus and Wine: Pour in the veal jus and red wine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
4. Strain and Serve: For a smooth gravy, strain the mixture through a fine sieve. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve warm.

Pairings:

Classic Roast Beef or Chicken: The gravy’s deep flavors complement the succulence of roasted meats wonderfully.

Mashed Potatoes: Drizzle it over creamy mashed potatoes for an indulgent twist.

Yorkshire Puddings: Perfect for a traditional British roast dinner, this gravy is a must-have with Yorkshire puddings.

Vegetarian Nut Roast: For a veggie option, this gravy adds a savory richness to nut roasts.

Sausages and Mash: Elevate a simple sausages and mashed potatoes meal with this gravy.

Steak: A spoonful of this gravy can transform a steak into a gourmet meal.

Vegetable Pie Filling: Use it as a base for a hearty vegetable pie.

Roasted Vegetables: A drizzle of this gravy can add depth to roasted root vegetables.

Bangers and Mash: For a classic comfort food, serve it with bangers and mash.

Pork Chops: The gravy’s robust flavor pairs well with the richness of pork chops.

Also Read: James Martin’s Gooseberry Chutney Recipe

Nutritional Value (per serving)

Calories: Approximately 150 kcal

Fat: 8g

Carbohydrates: 15g

Protein: 2g

Sodium: 300mg

FAQs

Can I use beef stock instead of veal jus?

Absolutely, you can use beef stock in place of veal jus for this onion gravy recipe. Beef stock is a great alternative and is more readily available in most grocery stores. It will still give you a rich and flavorful gravy. Just remember to choose a good quality stock for the best flavor. This simple swap won’t compromise the delicious taste of your gravy. So go ahead and use beef stock, and your gravy will still be a hit with whatever dish you serve it with. Enjoy your cooking!

How can I store the leftover gravy?

Storing leftover gravy is easy. First, let the gravy cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it into an airtight container. You can keep this in the fridge for up to 3 days. Whenever you want to use it again, just reheat it. Make sure to heat it well until it’s hot throughout. This way, your gravy stays fresh and tasty. It’s perfect for enjoying later with another meal. Just remember, always check for freshness before using it again. Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious gravy!

Can I make this gravy vegetarian?

Certainly! To make this onion gravy vegetarian, simply swap the veal jus or beef stock with a rich vegetable stock. Choose a good quality stock to maintain the depth of flavor. Additionally, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra richness. This simple change will give you a delicious vegetarian gravy without losing the savory taste. It’s a great way to enjoy this recipe while sticking to a vegetarian diet. Go ahead and try it out – your vegetarian gravy will be just as delightful!

Can I freeze this onion gravy for later use?

Yes, you can freeze this onion gravy. After it cools down, pour it into a freezer-safe container or a ziplock bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well to ensure it’s heated evenly. This makes it convenient to have delicious gravy on hand whenever you need it.

How can I thicken the gravy more?

If your gravy isn’t as thick as you’d like, there’s an easy fix. Take a tablespoon of cornstarch and mix it with a little cold water to make a smooth paste. Then, stir this mixture into your simmering gravy. Keep stirring as you bring it back to a simmer. The gravy will start to thicken as it heats up. Just add this cornstarch mixture bit by bit until you get the thickness you want. This method is simple and works well every time to give you a perfectly thickened gravy. Enjoy!

Conclusion

This onion gravy is more than just a sauce; it’s a celebration of flavors that can transform an ordinary meal into something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this recipe is straightforward yet rewarding. Enjoy the rich, comforting taste it brings to your table!