Is your holiday table missing that rich, savory gravy? We all dream of perfect gravy, but sometimes, especially during busy times, store-bought is the answer. But with so many bottles and packets on the shelf, how do you pick the one that won’t disappoint? It can be a real challenge to find a store-bought gravy that tastes just as good as homemade, without all the fuss.
That’s where America’s Test Kitchen comes in. They’ve done the hard work for us, tasting and testing countless gravies to find the very best. In this post, we’ll dive into their expert findings. You’ll learn which store-bought gravies truly shine and why. Get ready to discover your new go-to gravy!
Our Top 5 Store Bought Gravy America’S Test Kitchen Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Store Bought Gravy America’S Test Kitchen Detailed Reviews
1. The Best Mexican Recipes: Kitchen-Tested Recipes Put the Real Flavors of Mexico Within Reach
Rating: 9.4/10
Craving authentic Mexican food? “The Best Mexican Recipes: Kitchen-Tested Recipes Put the Real Flavors of Mexico Within Reach” brings the vibrant tastes of Mexico right into your own kitchen. This cookbook is packed with recipes that have been tested by real cooks. You can finally make your favorite Mexican dishes, from spicy tacos to hearty enchiladas, with confidence. It’s designed for home cooks who want to experience genuine Mexican flavors without needing fancy ingredients or professional chef skills.
What We Like:
- Easy-to-follow instructions make cooking fun.
- Features a wide variety of popular and traditional Mexican dishes.
- Recipes are tested, so you know they work.
- Helps you create delicious, authentic Mexican meals at home.
- Ingredients are usually easy to find at local grocery stores.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some recipes might require specific Mexican spices that aren’t always in every pantry.
- A few more pictures of the finished dishes could be helpful.
This cookbook truly delivers on its promise of making real Mexican flavors accessible. Get ready to impress your family and friends with amazing home-cooked Mexican meals!
2. Multicooker Perfection: Cook It Fast or Cook It Slow-You Decide
Rating: 8.7/10
The Multicooker Perfection: Cook It Fast or Cook It Slow-You Decide is a kitchen game-changer. It simplifies cooking, letting you choose how your meals are prepared. This appliance is designed to fit busy schedules. You can whip up a quick dinner or let it slowly cook a tender roast. It handles all your cooking needs with ease.
What We Like:
- Versatile cooking options: cook fast or slow.
- Saves time in the kitchen.
- Simplifies meal preparation.
- Great for beginners and experienced cooks.
- Makes cooking enjoyable.
What Could Be Improved:
- No specific features were listed, so it’s hard to pinpoint areas for improvement.
- Without knowing the exact functions, we can’t comment on specific limitations.
This multicooker truly lives up to its name. It offers incredible flexibility for any cook. You will love the convenience it brings to your kitchen.
3. The Complete Slow Cooker: From Appetizers to Desserts – 400 Must-Have Recipes That Cook While You Play (or Work)
Rating: 8.8/10
Tired of spending hours in the kitchen? “The Complete Slow Cooker: From Appetizers to Desserts – 400 Must-Have Recipes That Cook While You Play (or Work)” is your new best friend. This cookbook unlocks the magic of your slow cooker, making mealtime easy and delicious. It’s packed with recipes for every occasion, from quick weeknight dinners to impressive party appetizers and even sweet treats.
What We Like:
- Huge variety of recipes: 400 options mean you’ll never get bored.
- Covers all meals: Appetizers, main courses, sides, and desserts are all included.
- Saves time: Recipes are designed to cook while you do other things.
- Simple instructions: Easy to follow, even for beginner cooks.
- Great for busy people: Lets you enjoy home-cooked meals without the fuss.
What Could Be Improved:
- Can be overwhelming: So many choices might make it hard to pick a recipe at first.
- Some recipes might require less common ingredients.
This cookbook is a fantastic resource for anyone who wants to eat well without spending all day cooking. It truly delivers on its promise to help you enjoy delicious meals while you live your life.
Choosing the Best Store-Bought Gravy: An America’s Test Kitchen Guide
When you need a quick and tasty gravy for your holiday meals or weeknight dinners, store-bought gravy can be a lifesaver. But not all gravies are created equal. America’s Test Kitchen has done the hard work for you, testing many brands to find the best options. This guide will help you pick a winner.
What to Look for in Store-Bought Gravy
When you’re shopping, keep these things in mind.
Key Features to Look For
- Flavor: The best gravies taste rich and savory. They should remind you of homemade gravy. Look for notes of roasted meat, herbs, and a good balance of saltiness.
- Texture: A good gravy should be smooth and not too thick or too thin. It should coat the back of a spoon nicely. No one wants lumpy gravy!
- Ingredients: Simple ingredients are usually better. Look for gravies with real meat drippings or broth as a main ingredient. Avoid those with too many artificial flavors or preservatives.
- Versatility: Can you use it for more than just turkey? A great gravy works well with chicken, beef, mashed potatoes, and even stuffing.
Important Materials
The “materials” for gravy aren’t like building materials. They are the ingredients that make it taste good.
- Broth/Stock: This is the base of most gravies. Chicken, turkey, or beef broth gives the gravy its foundational flavor.
- Fat: A little bit of fat, often from meat drippings, adds richness and helps the flavors meld.
- Thickeners: Usually flour or cornstarch, these make the gravy thick enough to coat food.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, herbs like thyme or rosemary, and sometimes onion or garlic powder add depth.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make gravy better, while others can make it worse.
- Improves Quality:
- Using real meat drippings or a good quality broth as the base.
- Natural seasonings and herbs.
- A good balance of savory flavors.
- Reduces Quality:
- Too much salt.
- Artificial flavors or colors.
- A thin, watery texture.
- A chemical-like taste.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use gravy makes a difference.
- Ease of Use: Most store-bought gravies just need to be heated. Some might need a bit of whisking to get the right consistency.
- Taste: The best ones taste surprisingly close to homemade. They enhance the flavor of your meal without overpowering it.
- Common Uses:
- Pouring over mashed potatoes.
- Drizzling on roasted turkey or chicken.
- Serving with pot roast or meatloaf.
- A dipping sauce for fries or chicken tenders.
- Adding to casseroles for extra moisture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Store-Bought Gravy
Here are some common questions people have.
Q1: What are the main key features America’s Test Kitchen looks for?
A: America’s Test Kitchen focuses on rich flavor, smooth texture, simple ingredients, and versatility.
Q2: Is it okay if my gravy has a few lumps?
A: No, a good gravy should be smooth. Lumps mean it wasn’t mixed or heated properly, or the thickener wasn’t incorporated well.
Q3: Can I make store-bought gravy taste more like homemade?
A: Yes! You can add a splash of wine, some extra herbs, a pinch of black pepper, or even a bit of pan drippings from your cooked meat.
Q4: What are the most important ingredients in good gravy?
A: The most important ingredients are a good quality broth or stock, and proper seasoning for flavor.
Q5: Does the brand of gravy really matter?
A: Yes, the brand can make a big difference. Some brands use better ingredients and have recipes that taste much better than others.
Q6: How do I avoid a watery gravy?
A: If your gravy is too thin, you can try whisking in a bit more cornstarch mixed with a little cold water, or a flour-and-butter paste, and heating it gently.
Q7: What makes a gravy taste “artificial”?
A: Artificial flavors and too many preservatives can give gravy a chemical or off taste.
Q8: Can I freeze store-bought gravy?
A: Yes, most store-bought gravies can be frozen. Thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat it gently, whisking as it warms.
Q9: What is the best way to heat store-bought gravy?
A: The best way is usually on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Stir it often to prevent scorching or thickening too much.
Q10: Are there any store-bought gravies America’s Test Kitchen recommends?
A: America’s Test Kitchen has recommended specific brands in their reviews for their excellent flavor and texture, so checking their latest findings is a good idea.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!