This rich, savory onion gravy features caramelized onions cooked low and slow until golden and sweet, then transformed into a silky sauce with beef stock and aromatic seasonings. Perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes, roasts, or any dish that needs a flavorful boost.
2large yellow onionsabout 1 pound or 450g, thinly sliced into half-moons
1teaspoonsugar4g
3tablespoonsall-purpose flour24g
2cupsbeef stock480ml
1tablespoonWorcestershire sauce15ml
1teaspoonDijon mustard5g
1teaspoondried thyme1g
1/2teaspoononion powder1.5g
1/2teaspoongarlic powder1.5g
1/4teaspoonblack pepper0.5g
saltto taste
Instructions
Peel onions, slice in half from root to tip, and cut into thin half-moon shapes about 1/4 inch thick. Keep slices uniform for even cooking.
Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sugar, stirring to coat. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring every 3-4 minutes, until onions are deep golden brown and caramelized.
Reduce heat to low and sprinkle flour over caramelized onions. Stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook the flour and coat all the onions.
Slowly add beef stock 1/2 cup at a time while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, mustard, thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a boil. Reduce to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until gravy thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Taste and add salt as needed (start with 1/2 teaspoon). Serve immediately or keep warm over low heat.
Notes
Don't rush the onion caramelization - it takes 20-30 minutes. High heat will burn them instead of creating sweet, golden onions.
Use a wide skillet for even caramelization. Onions need space to brown rather than steam.
Add stock gradually while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
For vegetarian gravy, substitute vegetable stock for beef stock.
For thicker gravy, simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp cold water).
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Gravy will thicken as it cools.
Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat over medium-low heat, adding a splash of stock to thin to desired consistency.
For extra richness, stir in 1 tablespoon of cold butter at the end.
Caramelize onions up to 2 days ahead and store in the fridge. Reheat before proceeding with the recipe.