Picture this: a perfectly roasted turkey, fluffy mashed potatoes, and a steaming pile of stuffing. All that’s missing is that rich, savory gravy to bring it all together. But when you stand in the grocery store aisle, faced with a wall of gravy options, do you feel a little lost? It’s true, choosing the best store-bought gravy can feel like a culinary gamble. You want something that tastes homemade, not like a salty, bland disappointment.
That’s where America’s Test Kitchen comes in. They’ve done the hard work for us, tasting and testing countless brands to find the absolute winners. In this post, we’re diving deep into their findings. You’ll discover which gravies actually deliver on flavor, which ones are worth your hard-earned money, and which ones to skip entirely. Get ready to elevate your next meal from good to truly delicious!
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: 9.1/10
Are you looking for an easy way to make delicious meals without 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 here to help. This cookbook, part of the popular ATK Cookbook Series, offers a huge collection of recipes perfect for busy people. You can set it and forget it, letting your slow cooker do all the work while you focus on other things.
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What We Like:
- An incredible variety of recipes, covering everything from yummy appetizers to sweet desserts.
- The recipes are designed for slow cookers, meaning less hands-on time for you.
- It’s a great way to save time on busy weeknights or weekends.
- The cookbook is from America’s Test Kitchen, a trusted source for reliable recipes.
- You get a lot of recipes for your money, making it a great value.
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What Could Be Improved:
- Some recipes might require specialty ingredients you don’t always have on hand.
- With so many recipes, it can be a little overwhelming to choose what to make first.
This cookbook is a fantastic resource for anyone who loves good food but has a packed schedule. It truly makes cooking effortless and enjoyable.
2. The Best Mexican Recipes: Kitchen-Tested Recipes Put the Real Flavors of Mexico Within Reach
Rating: 9.3/10
Embark on a culinary adventure with “The Best Mexican Recipes: Kitchen-Tested Recipes Put the Real Flavors of Mexico Within Reach.” This cookbook is your passport to authentic Mexican cooking, right in your own kitchen. It brings vibrant tastes and traditional methods straight to your table. You’ll discover how easy it is to make delicious, genuine Mexican dishes.
What We Like:
- The recipes are truly kitchen-tested. This means they work!
- It focuses on real Mexican flavors. You won’t find watered-down versions here.
- The instructions are clear and easy to follow. Anyone can cook these meals.
- It makes authentic Mexican food accessible. You don’t need special ingredients.
- It’s a great way to explore a rich culture through food.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some recipes might require a bit of planning for ingredients.
- A few more beginner-friendly options could be helpful for absolute novices.
This cookbook is an excellent resource for anyone wanting to experience the true taste of Mexico. It’s a fantastic addition to any home cook’s collection.
3. Multicooker Perfection: Cook It Fast or Cook It Slow-You Decide
Rating: 9.2/10
The Multicooker Perfection: Cook It Fast or Cook It Slow-You Decide is a game-changer for busy kitchens. This appliance lets you whip up meals quickly for those rushed weeknights, or gently simmer them for hours to develop deep, delicious flavors. It’s designed to simplify your cooking and give you more control over your meals.
What We Like:
- It cooks food really fast when you need it to.
- You can also cook food slowly for tender results.
- It’s easy to use, even if you’re new to multicookers.
- Cleaning up is usually a breeze.
- It saves space by doing the job of several appliances.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instruction manual could be clearer.
- Some recipes might take a bit of experimenting to get just right.
- It’s a bit bulky to store if you have a small kitchen.
This multicooker truly offers amazing flexibility. It makes cooking at home much easier and more enjoyable.
Your Guide to Delicious Gravy: Store.Bought Gravy America’s Test Kitchen
Looking for a quick and tasty way to make your meals shine? Store-bought gravy can be a lifesaver. But with so many options, how do you pick the best one? We’re here to help you find the perfect gravy from America’s Test Kitchen.
Why Choose America’s Test Kitchen Gravy?
America’s Test Kitchen is known for its thorough testing and honest reviews. They help you find products that actually work well and taste great. When they put their name on a product, it usually means quality.
Key Features to Look For
What Makes a Great Gravy?
When you’re buying gravy, keep these things in mind:
- Flavor: Does it taste rich and savory? Does it have a good balance of salt and herbs?
- Texture: Is it smooth or lumpy? A good gravy should be silky.
- Ingredients: Look for simple, real ingredients. Less is often more.
- Versatility: Can you use it for more than just mashed potatoes? Think roast chicken, pot roast, or even as a base for other sauces.
Important Materials and Ingredients
What’s Inside Matters
The best gravies start with good building blocks. Here’s what to look for:
- Broth Base: High-quality chicken, beef, or vegetable broth is key. It should be the first ingredient.
- Natural Flavors: Real herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage add depth.
- Thickeners: Cornstarch or flour are common. They should be used to achieve a smooth, even consistency.
- Avoid Artificial Stuff: Steer clear of artificial colors, flavors, and too many preservatives.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes it Great or Not So Great
A few things can make a big difference in how good your gravy tastes and feels.
- Improved Quality:
- Real meat juices or good quality broth.
- A blend of savory herbs.
- A smooth, lump-free texture.
- A rich, deep flavor that isn’t too salty.
- Reduced Quality:
- Water as the first ingredient.
- Artificial flavors or colors.
- A thin or watery texture.
- A bland or overly salty taste.
- Gummy or clumpy texture from poor thickening.
User Experience and Use Cases
How to Enjoy Your Gravy
Using store-bought gravy from America’s Test Kitchen is all about making your life easier and your meals tastier. It’s perfect for:
- Quick Weeknight Dinners: Add a spoonful to roasted chicken, pork chops, or even a simple burger.
- Holiday Feasts: Elevate your turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing with a rich, homemade-tasting gravy.
- Comfort Food Classics: Biscuits and gravy just got a whole lot better.
- Savory Sauces: Use it as a base for stroganoff or other creamy sauces.
Most gravies are simple to prepare. You usually just heat them on the stovetop or in the microwave. Some might suggest adding a splash of water or broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.
When you choose a gravy recommended by America’s Test Kitchen, you’re getting a product that has been tested for taste and performance. This means you can trust it to deliver delicious results without a lot of fuss.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes America’s Test Kitchen gravy different?
A: America’s Test Kitchen tests products very carefully. They look for the best flavor and texture, so their recommended gravies are usually high quality.
Q: Is it easy to make?
A: Yes, most store-bought gravies are very easy to prepare. You just heat them up!
Q: Can I add my own ingredients?
A: You can always add a little extra pepper, herbs, or even a splash of wine to customize the flavor.
Q: What kind of meals does this gravy go well with?
A: It’s great with roasted meats, mashed potatoes, stuffing, biscuits, and many other savory dishes.
Q: Are there different flavors available?
A: Yes, you can often find classic flavors like turkey, chicken, and beef.
Q: What should I do if the gravy is too thick?
A: You can usually thin it out with a little water, broth, or milk.
Q: What if the gravy is too thin?
A: You can thicken it slightly by simmering it longer or making a slurry with a little cornstarch and water.
Q: Are these gravies healthy?
A: While they are a convenient option, check the nutrition label for sodium and fat content. They are best enjoyed in moderation.
Q: Where can I buy America’s Test Kitchen gravy?
A: You can usually find these products at well-stocked grocery stores or online retailers.
Q: How long does store-bought gravy last?
A: Check the expiration date on the package. Once opened, store it in the refrigerator and use it within a few days.
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.