Smoky red wine gravy

This smoky red wine gravy offers a rich and savory flavor, combining red wine, chicken gravy, and fresh thyme for depth. It's an easy-to-make sauce that complements a variety of dishes, from meats to roasted vegetables.

06 Dec 2025
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp butter
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp fresh thyme
1.50 tbsp all-purpose white wheat flour
1 tsp paprika
1/2 cup red wine
1 cup chicken gravy
1 tsp brown sugar
Smoky red wine gravy

This smoky red wine gravy is a deliciously rich and savory addition to your meal, perfect for those who want to enjoy a homemade gravy without needing drippings. The combination of red wine, chicken gravy, and a hint of thyme creates a depth of flavor that complements everything from roasted vegetables to meats. It's a versatile, flavor-packed sauce that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
- Finely chop the onion.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Chop the fresh thyme.
2. Melt the Butter:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Saute the Aromatics:
- Add the finely chopped onion to the melted butter. Saute for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and soft.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped fresh thyme to the pan. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until aromatic.
4. Make a Roux:
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onion mixture. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes to form a smooth roux. Ensure the flour is fully integrated and slightly golden but not burnt.
5. Add Paprika:
- Stir in the paprika and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute to release its smoky flavor.
6. Deglaze with Red Wine:
- Pour in the red wine while continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off, and to reduce slightly.
7. Incorporate Chicken Gravy:
- Gradually stir in the chicken gravy, ensuring it's well mixed and smooth. Continue cooking the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
8. Add Sweetness:
- Sprinkle in the brown sugar and stir until it is completely dissolved into the gravy.
9. Simmer:
- Let the gravy simmer on low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
10. Taste and Adjust:
- Taste your gravy and adjust the seasoning as necessary. You might want to add a pinch of salt or pepper based on your preference.
11. Serve:
- Once your smoky red wine gravy has reached the desired thickness and flavor, remove it from the heat.
- Serve immediately over your favorite dish like mashed potatoes, roasted meats, or vegetables.

With its robust flavor and smooth texture, this smoky red wine gravy is sure to become a favorite in your culinary arsenal. It’s a fantastic way to elevate any dish, offering a sophisticated and complex taste without requiring meat drippings. Enjoy this delicious gravy as a staple at your family dinners or festive occasions.

Smoky red wine gravy FAQ:

How long does this smoky red wine gravy take to cook?

The total cooking time for this smoky red wine gravy is approximately 20-25 minutes. This includes sautéing the onions, making the roux, and simmering the gravy.

What can I substitute for red wine in this recipe?

If you prefer not to use red wine, you can substitute it with additional chicken broth, grape juice, or a mixture of vinegar and water. However, this may alter the flavor slightly.

How do I know when the gravy is done?

The gravy is done when it has thickened to your desired consistency, usually after simmering for about 5-10 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon when ready.

Can I store leftover gravy, and if so, how?

Yes, you can store leftover smoky red wine gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to thin it.

What type of pan should I use for making this gravy?

A medium saucepan is ideal for making this gravy. It allows for even heat distribution and enough space for stirring the ingredients without splattering.

Tips:

- Ensure the butter is fully melted and hot enough before adding the onion to begin with a proper sauté, releasing its natural sugars for better flavor.

- Cook the onions until they are really tender and slightly caramelized to enhance the sweetness and depth of the gravy.

- Be patient when adding the flour; make sure it’s fully incorporated and cook for a minute to remove any raw flour taste.

- Choose a good quality red wine that you enjoy drinking, as the flavor will be prominent in the gravy.

- If you prefer a smoother gravy, consider straining it through a fine mesh sieve before serving.

- Allow the gravy to simmer until it thickens to your desired consistency, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.

Nutrition per serving

12 Servings
Calories 50kcal
Protein 0.64g
Carbohydrates 4.29g
Fiber 0.66g
Sugar 1.20g
Fat 2.59g

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