Imagine this: your perfectly roasted turkey is ready, the mashed potatoes are fluffy, and all that’s missing is that silky, rich gravy. But then you’re faced with a wall of gravy options at the grocery store. Which one will actually taste good, not like salty water or cardboard? It’s a common holiday dilemma, and frankly, it can be a real bummer when you’re craving that comforting, homemade flavor but don’t have the time (or energy!) to make it from scratch.
That’s where America’s Test Kitchen comes in. They’ve done the hard work of tasting and testing so you don’t have to. We’ve all been there, staring at a shelf, wondering if that fancy-looking jar is worth the money or if the store brand is secretly just as good. Choosing the wrong one can lead to a disappointing meal, and nobody wants that. This post is all about helping you navigate the world of store-bought gravy.
By the end of this, you’ll know which store-bought gravies are worth your hard-earned cash and which ones to skip. We’ll break down what makes a good gravy and reveal the winners from America’s Test Kitchen’s rigorous testing. So, get ready to discover your new go-to gravy and make your next meal truly spectacular!
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 Complete Slow Cooker: From Appetizers to Desserts – 400 Must-Have Recipes That Cook While You Play (orWork) (The Complete ATK Cookbook Series)
Rating: 8.7/10
Tired of spending hours in the kitchen? The Complete Slow Cooker cookbook by America’s Test Kitchen is your new best friend. This book is packed with 400 amazing recipes. You can make everything from tasty appetizers to sweet desserts. The best part? Your slow cooker does most of the work while you relax or focus on other things. It’s the perfect way to get delicious, home-cooked meals on the table without the fuss.
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What We Like:
- Huge variety of recipes: You’ll never run out of ideas with 400 options.
- Covers all meals: From starters to sweets, it’s all here.
- Easy to follow: The recipes are clear and simple to understand.
- Saves time: Let your slow cooker do the cooking while you do other things.
- Reliable results: America’s Test Kitchen is known for testing recipes thoroughly.
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What Could Be Improved:
- Some recipes might require specific ingredients you may not have on hand.
- The sheer number of recipes can be a little overwhelming at first.
If you love your slow cooker, this cookbook is a must-have. It truly makes mealtime easier and more delicious.
2. The Best Mexican Recipes: Kitchen-Tested Recipes Put the Real Flavors of Mexico Within Reach
Rating: 9.1/10
Dreaming of authentic Mexican food? This cookbook, “The Best Mexican Recipes: Kitchen-Tested Recipes Put the Real Flavors of Mexico Within Reach,” is your passport to deliciousness. It’s packed with recipes that have been tried and tested. You can finally make those amazing Mexican dishes you love right in your own kitchen.
What We Like:
- The recipes are easy to follow.
- They use ingredients you can find at your local grocery store.
- The book includes tips for making dishes even better.
- It features a great variety of popular Mexican meals.
- The pictures in the book make you want to cook everything.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some recipes might be a little long for a busy weeknight.
- It could use a few more vegetarian options.
This cookbook truly makes the vibrant tastes of Mexico accessible to everyone. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these amazing recipes!
3. Multicooker Perfection: Cook It Fast or Cook It Slow-You Decide
Rating: 8.9/10
The Multicooker Perfection: Cook It Fast or Cook It Slow-You Decide is a kitchen game-changer. It lets you whip up quick weeknight meals or slow-cook savory stews. You have total control over your cooking time. This means you can always get dinner ready when you want it. It’s a versatile tool for any home cook.
What We Like:
- Super fast cooking for busy nights.
- Slow cooking feature makes tender meats.
- Easy to clean up after meals.
- Simple controls make it user-friendly.
- Saves counter space with its all-in-one design.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instruction manual could be clearer.
- A few more preset cooking functions would be nice.
- The power cord is a bit short.
This multicooker truly simplifies meal preparation. It offers flexibility and convenience for every cooking need.
Your Guide to Delicious Gravy from America’s Test Kitchen
Tired of bland, lumpy gravy? America’s Test Kitchen has your back! They’ve created a gravy mix that aims to bring restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen. This guide will help you understand what makes their gravy special and how to get the most out of it.
What to Look For: Key Features of Store-Bought Gravy
1. Flavor Profile
Good gravy should taste rich and savory. America’s Test Kitchen focuses on deep, roasted flavors. They want their gravy to taste like it was made from scratch. Look for descriptions that mention savory meat notes. This means it will taste great with turkey, chicken, or roast beef.
2. Texture
No one likes watery or clumpy gravy. A great gravy mix should create a smooth, thick sauce. It should coat the back of a spoon nicely. America’s Test Kitchen works hard to get the texture just right. You want a gravy that flows well but isn’t too thin.
3. Ease of Preparation
The best store-bought gravies are simple to make. You shouldn’t need fancy equipment or a lot of extra ingredients. America’s Test Kitchen gravy is designed for convenience. It should only take a few minutes to prepare. This is perfect for busy weeknights or holiday feasts.
4. Ingredients
While convenience is key, quality ingredients matter. Look for mixes that use real meat flavors or high-quality broths. America’s Test Kitchen often talks about using good ingredients. This helps create a more authentic taste.
Important Materials and What They Mean
The “materials” in a gravy mix refer to its ingredients. For America’s Test Kitchen gravy, they often highlight:
- Dehydrated Broth: This provides the base flavor. Good broth means good gravy.
- Starches: Like cornstarch or flour, these thicken the gravy. They need to be the right kind to avoid lumps.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, herbs, and spices add depth. The blend of these is what makes the flavor pop.
Factors That Affect Quality
Several things can make gravy better or worse:
Improving Quality:
- Adding Pan Drippings: If you’re making roast meat, adding the drippings from the pan into your prepared gravy adds incredible flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme just before serving can brighten the taste.
- A Splash of Wine or Broth: Sometimes, a little extra liquid can help achieve the perfect consistency and add another layer of flavor.
Reducing Quality:
- Over-boiling: Cooking the gravy for too long can sometimes affect its texture and flavor.
- Using Too Little or Too Much Water: Following the instructions carefully is important for the right thickness.
- Not Whisking Enough: If you don’t whisk well, you might get lumps.
User Experience and Use Cases
People love America’s Test Kitchen gravy because it’s a reliable shortcut to deliciousness. It’s perfect for:
- Holiday Meals: Turkey, ham, and roast beef all need great gravy. This mix makes it easy.
- Weeknight Dinners: It can quickly turn mashed potatoes and meatloaf into a more satisfying meal.
- Comfort Food: Gravy is classic comfort food. This mix delivers that familiar, cozy taste.
- Beginner Cooks: If you’re new to cooking, this gravy is foolproof. It helps you achieve great results without stress.
You can use it as is, or get creative! Many people stir in a little extra butter or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to make it even richer.
Frequently Asked Questions about Store.Bought Gravy America’s Test Kitchen
Q: Is this gravy mix hard to make?
A: No, it’s very easy! You usually just whisk it with water or broth and heat it up. It’s designed for quick preparation.
Q: What does America’s Test Kitchen gravy taste like?
A: It aims for a rich, savory, and homemade taste. It has deep meat flavors.
Q: Can I make the gravy thicker or thinner?
A: Yes. For thicker gravy, use a little less liquid. For thinner gravy, add a bit more liquid than the package suggests.
Q: What kind of meat is the flavor based on?
A: The flavor is generally a rich, savory base that works well with many meats like turkey, chicken, and beef.
Q: Does it contain any artificial flavors?
A: America’s Test Kitchen often focuses on simple, quality ingredients. Check the specific product packaging for the most accurate ingredient list.
Q: Can I add things to the gravy to make it better?
A: Absolutely! Many people add pan drippings, fresh herbs, or a splash of wine for extra flavor.
Q: How long does it take to make?
A: It typically takes only a few minutes to prepare, usually less than 5 minutes.
Q: Is this a good option for someone who doesn’t cook often?
A: Yes, it’s a fantastic option! It’s simple to use and provides a delicious result with minimal effort.
Q: What is the texture like after preparation?
A: When prepared correctly, it should be smooth and thick, coating the back of a spoon.
Q: Where can I buy this gravy?
A: You can usually find it at major grocery stores or online retailers that sell America’s Test Kitchen products.
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 Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!