Can you make gravy with almond milk?

Can Almond Milk be Used to Make Gravy?

Gravy is a staple in many households, but what if you or someone you are cooking for has a dairy allergy or intolerance? Can you still make delicious gravy without using traditional dairy products? The answer is yes, and almond milk is a great alternative.

Almond milk has a subtle nutty flavor that pairs well with savory dishes like gravy. It is also a good choice for those who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or looking to reduce their intake of animal products. But before you start substituting almond milk in your gravy recipe, it’s important to understand the components of gravy and how almond milk might affect its texture and flavor.

Almond Milk as an Alternative to Dairy

Almond milk is a popular dairy alternative that is made by blending almonds with water and then straining out the pulp. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, and it is lower in calories and fat than traditional dairy milk. Almond milk also has a creaminess that makes it a good substitute for dairy products in many recipes, including gravy.

Using almond milk in gravy has become increasingly popular as more people seek out dairy-free alternatives. Almond milk can be used in both white and brown gravies, and it can be flavored with herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences. However, it’s important to note that almond milk may not work as well in all recipes, and it may require some adjustments to get the desired texture and flavor.

Understanding the Components of Gravy

Gravy is typically made by combining a liquid (such as broth or milk) with a thickening agent (such as flour or cornstarch) and then adding flavorings like herbs and spices. The thickening agent is what gives gravy its smooth and creamy texture, and it also helps to bind the flavors together. When using almond milk to make gravy, the thickening agent may need to be adjusted since almond milk is thinner than traditional dairy milk.

Some recipes call for a roux, which is a mixture of equal parts fat (such as butter or oil) and flour that is cooked until it forms a paste. The roux is then whisked with the liquid to create a smooth sauce. When using almond milk, you may need to use more or less flour to get the right consistency since the almond milk is thinner than dairy milk.

How Almond Milk Affects Gravy Texture

The texture of gravy made with almond milk may be slightly thinner than traditional gravy made with dairy milk. This is because almond milk is thinner than dairy milk, so it may not thicken as well with the same amount of flour or cornstarch. To compensate for this, you may need to use more thickening agent or reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe.

Another factor that can affect the texture of almond milk gravy is the temperature at which it is served. Almond milk gravy may thicken as it cools, so it’s important to keep this in mind when reheating leftovers. You may need to add a little more liquid to the gravy when reheating to achieve the desired consistency.

Tips for Making Almond Milk Gravy

When making almond milk gravy, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure the best results:

• Use unsweetened almond milk to avoid any unwanted sweetness in your gravy.
• Heat the almond milk before adding it to the roux or thickening agent to prevent lumps from forming.
• Whisk the almond milk and thickening agent together until smooth before adding it to the recipe.
• Add the almond milk slowly to the thickening agent, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
• Taste the gravy as you go and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Recipes for Almond Milk Gravy

Here are two recipes for almond milk gravy that you can try:

Almond Milk White Gravy

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Slowly add the almond milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
4. Cook the gravy for 5-10 minutes or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Almond Milk Brown Gravy

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Slowly add the beef broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
4. Add the almond milk and Worcestershire sauce, and whisk to combine.
5. Cook the gravy for 5-10 minutes or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Comparing Almond Milk Gravy to Traditional Gravy

When comparing almond milk gravy to traditional gravy made with dairy milk, there are a few differences to keep in mind. Almond milk gravy may be slightly thinner and have a nuttier flavor than traditional gravy. However, it is a good alternative for those with dairy allergies or intolerances, and it can be just as delicious when prepared correctly.

It’s also worth noting that almond milk gravy may have a lower calorie and fat content than traditional gravy, which can make it a healthier option. However, this will depend on the specific recipe and how it is prepared.

Serving Almond Milk Gravy with Different Foods

Almond milk gravy can be served with a variety of foods, including mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and meat dishes like chicken or beef. It can also be used as a topping for biscuits or served over rice. The nutty flavor of the almond milk pairs well with savory dishes, and it can add a unique twist to classic recipes.

Adjusting Flavors and Consistency of Almond Milk Gravy

If your almond milk gravy is too thin or too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding more liquid or thickening agent. If you want to adjust the flavor, you can add different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences. Some common herbs and spices that pair well with almond milk gravy include thyme, rosemary, garlic, and onion powder.

Conclusion: Is Almond Milk Gravy Worth Trying?

If you are looking for a dairy-free alternative to traditional gravy, almond milk gravy is definitely worth trying. It may require some adjustments to get the desired texture and flavor, but with the right recipe and technique, it can be just as delicious as traditional gravy. Plus, it’s a healthier option that can be enjoyed by those with dairy allergies or intolerances. Give it a try and see how you like it!