Ham, with its rich, savory flavor and tender texture, is a centerpiece of many holiday meals and special occasions. One way to elevate the taste of ham is by pairing it with the perfect gravy. Gravy not only enhances the flavor of ham but also adds moisture and richness to each bite. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what gravy goes well with ham, providing you with a variety of options to create a delicious and memorable meal. We will delve into the best gravy recipes, complementary side dishes, and drinks to pair with ham, ensuring your meal is a hit.
What Gravy Goes Well with Ham?
When it comes to pairing gravy with ham, there are several delicious options to consider. The right gravy can enhance the flavor of the ham, adding depth and complexity to the dish. Let’s explore the best gravies that pair well with ham.
Traditional Ham Gravy
Traditional ham gravy is made using the drippings from the ham, creating a rich and flavorful sauce that complements the meat perfectly. Here is a simple recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ham drippings | 1 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tbsp |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
- Instructions:
- In a pan, heat the ham drippings over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a roux.
- Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking to avoid lumps.
- Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Maple Mustard Gravy
Maple mustard gravy adds a sweet and tangy flavor to ham, making it a unique and tasty option. Here is a recipe for maple mustard gravy:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Maple syrup | 1/4 cup |
| Dijon mustard | 2 tbsp |
| Ham drippings | 1/2 cup |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp |
| Water | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
- Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, ham drippings, and chicken broth.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to form a slurry.
- Add the slurry to the saucepan and whisk until the gravy thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Brown Sugar and Bourbon Gravy
Brown sugar and bourbon gravy provide a rich, slightly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with ham. Here is a recipe for brown sugar and bourbon gravy:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Bourbon | 1/4 cup |
| Ham drippings | 1/2 cup |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp |
| Water | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
- Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, bourbon, ham drippings, and chicken broth.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to form a slurry.
- Add the slurry to the saucepan and whisk until the gravy thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Apple Cider Gravy
Apple cider gravy offers a fruity, slightly tangy flavor that complements the savory taste of ham. Here is a recipe for apple cider gravy:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Apple cider | 1 cup |
| Ham drippings | 1/2 cup |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp |
| Water | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
- Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine the apple cider, ham drippings, and chicken broth.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to form a slurry.
- Add the slurry to the saucepan and whisk until the gravy thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mushroom Gravy
Mushroom gravy adds a savory, earthy flavor to ham, making it a great option for mushroom lovers. Here is a recipe for mushroom gravy:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mushrooms, sliced | 1 cup |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Ham drippings | 1/2 cup |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp |
| Water | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
- Instructions:
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the mushrooms until soft.
- Add the ham drippings and chicken broth to the skillet.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to form a slurry.
- Add the slurry to the skillet and whisk until the gravy thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Best Side Dishes for Ham and Gravy
To create a well-rounded meal, pair your ham and gravy with complementary side dishes. Here are some excellent options:
Vegetables
Vegetables add color, nutrition, and a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of ham and gravy. Consider these choices:
| Vegetable | Preparation | Seasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Roasted Asparagus | Roasted with olive oil | Lemon zest, sea salt |
| Glazed Carrots | Cooked with brown sugar and butter | Thyme, honey |
| Green Beans Almondine | Sautéed with butter and almonds | Garlic, lemon |
Starches
Starchy side dishes complement the rich flavors of ham and gravy. Consider these options:
| Side Dish | Preparation | Seasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Potatoes, butter, milk | Garlic, chives |
| Scalloped Potatoes | Potatoes, cream, cheese | Thyme, nutmeg |
| Sweet Potato Casserole | Sweet potatoes, brown sugar, pecans | Cinnamon, marshmallows |
Salads
A fresh salad provides a light and crunchy complement to ham and gravy. Consider these varieties:
| Salad Type | Ingredients | Dressing Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| Garden Salad | Mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers | Balsamic vinaigrette |
| Caesar Salad | Romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan | Caesar dressing |
| Spinach Salad | Spinach, strawberries, almonds | Poppy seed dressing |
Perfect Drinks to Serve with Ham and Gravy
Pairing the right beverage with your ham and gravy can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some recommendations:
Wines
Wine can be a sophisticated addition to your meal. Consider these options:
| Wine Type | Flavor Notes | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Riesling | Sweet, fruity | Complements the sweetness of the gravy |
| Pinot Noir | Light, fruity | Balances the richness of the ham |
| Chardonnay | Full-bodied, buttery | Enhances the savory flavors |
Beers
Beer can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of ham and gravy. Here are some great beer choices:
| Beer Type | Flavor Notes | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Pilsner | Light, crisp | Refreshes the palate |
| Amber Ale | Malty, slightly sweet | Complements the savory flavors |
| Stout | Rich, creamy | Contrasts the sweetness |
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, there are plenty of refreshing drinks that pair well with ham and gravy:
| Beverage | Flavor Notes | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Sparkling Water | Crisp, refreshing | Cleanses the palate |
| Apple Cider | Sweet, slightly tart | Complements the flavors |
| Iced Tea | Light, refreshing | Balances the richness |
Dessert Options to Complete Your Meal
A well-chosen dessert can complete your meal perfectly. Here are some dessert options:
| Dessert | Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Pie | Apples, cinnamon, sugar | Sweet, spiced |
| Chocolate Mousse | Chocolate, cream, sugar | Rich, creamy |
| Lemon Sorbet | Lemon, sugar, water | Light, refreshing |
Conclusion
Pairing the perfect gravy with ham can elevate your meal to new heights. Whether you prefer traditional ham gravy, a sweet and tangy maple mustard gravy, or a rich and flavorful brown sugar and bourbon gravy, there are plenty of options to choose from. By complementing your ham and gravy with the right side dishes, drinks, and desserts, you can create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that will impress your guests and leave everyone wanting more. Enjoy experimenting with different gravy recipes and pairings to find your perfect combination!
FAQs
Can I make gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can make gravy ahead of time. Prepare the gravy as instructed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
What if my gravy is too thick?
If your gravy is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little more broth or water until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I use a different type of broth for my gravy?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth, beef broth, or any other type of broth you prefer. Keep in mind that this will slightly alter the flavor of the gravy.
How do I store leftover gravy?
Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze gravy?
Yes, you can freeze gravy. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Gravy can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
By following these tips and exploring various gravy recipes, you can enhance the flavor of your ham dishes and create a memorable dining experience. Enjoy the process of discovering the perfect gravy pairings for your ham and impress your guests with your culinary skills!