The Best Gravy for Ham and Mashed Potatoes: Flavor Combinations to Try
Imagine this: a plate filled with steaming, juicy ham slices and smooth, creamy mashed potatoes. It sounds heavenly, doesn’t it? But wait, it seems like something is lacking. You guessed it; it’s the gravy!
I discovered that the proper gravy turns this tasty meal into something magical. It’s like the final touch on a masterpiece.
Are you curious about which gravy pairs best with ham and mashed potatoes? Let’s dive in and find the perfect match!
The Art of Gravy-Making
Mastering the art of gravy-making can take any meal from simple to spectacular. A good gravy starts with three key components: fat, flour, and flavorful liquid. These basics blend to create a rich, velvety sauce that ties your dish together.
Achieving the right consistency is all about technique. Whisk your roux, which is equal parts fat and flour, until smooth. Then, add liquid slowly to avoid lumps.
To build the best flavor, balance salt, herbs, and seasonings carefully. A splash of stock, a dash of pepper, or fresh herbs can transform bland into delicious.
| Gravy Essentials | Tips |
| Fat | Use pan drippings for depth |
| Flour | Whisk thoroughly |
| Liquid | Add warm stock gradually |
| Flavor | Season and taste as you go |
5 Gravies That Go Perfectly With Ham & Mashed Potatoes
1. Traditional Brown Gravy
Traditional brown gravy [1] is a classic choice for ham and mashed potatoes. It’s made using the juices from the cooked ham mixed with flour and broth to make it thick and tasty.
“I was weaned on chicken-fried steak and hominy grits with goopy gravy all over. I loved meat and wore fur.”
– Kathy Freston, American Writer
This gravy is rich and full of flavor, making the salty ham and creamy potatoes even more delicious.
It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds, making each bite comforting and satisfying. In short, brown gravy turns a simple plate of ham and potatoes into something special.
2. Creamy Mustard Gravy
Creamy mustard gravy is a delightful twist for ham and mashed potatoes. It’s smooth and rich, with a hint of tangy mustard that gives an exciting kick.
This gravy adds zest to the meal. It brings out the ham’s saltiness and the potatoes’ softness, making each bite full of flavor.
Think of it as a special treat for your plate, adding a surprising and yummy taste. In short, with creamy mustard gravy, every bite becomes a flavorful adventure!
3. Apple Cider Gravy
Apple cider gravy is a sweet and savory delight that pairs wonderfully with ham and mashed potatoes.
The sweetness of the apple cider, combined with the savory notes of the gravy, creates a perfect balance of flavors.
It’s like a sweet hug that wraps around the salty ham and melds into the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes, offering a delightful contrast.
Each bite brings warmth and sweetness. It transforms a classic dish into a delightful experience that stays on the palate.
4. Cheese Gravy
Cheese gravy [2] adds a creamy, indulgent touch to ham and mashed potatoes. It’s like a blanket of melted goodness that wraps each bite in warmth and richness.
The cheesy flavor melds beautifully with the salty ham, while the mashed potatoes become even creamier.
Every forkful blends savory and creamy tastes, making the meal special. It’s comfort food, slowly turning a regular meal into something you’ll want to savor, enjoying every cheesy, delightful bite.
You might also enjoy reading about the steps for making Idahoan mashed potatoes here.
5. Herb-Infused Gravy
Herb-infused gravy adds a fresh, aromatic flavor to your meal. It pairs perfectly with ham and mashed potatoes.
With the gentle hints of rosemary, thyme, and sage, each bite becomes a flavorful journey into a garden of fresh tastes.
“Crowning the succulent embrace of ham and mashed potatoes, the right gravy isn’t just an addition; it’s a melody of flavor, weaving through every bite, turning a simple meal into a symphony of taste.”
– Jay Gordon – Actor
The herbs cut through the richness of the ham and add depth to the creamy potatoes, creating a delightful dance of flavors.
It’s a lighter choice but just as tempting. Each bite offers a tasty journey, with fresh herbs complementing this favorite dish perfectly.
International Inspirations: Unique Gravy Recipes from Around the World
Gravy isn’t just an American classic—it’s loved in kitchens all over the world. Exploring global flavors can bring fresh inspiration to your holiday table and elevate a simple ham dinner.
Many international gravies pair wonderfully with ham. For example, try a French mustard cream sauce, a sweet pineapple glaze from Hawaii, or even a rich British onion gravy for a twist.
Here’s a quick look at tasty ideas:
| Country | Gravy Style | Pairs Well With |
| France | Mustard Cream | Ham & potatoes |
| UK | Onion Gravy | Roasted ham |
| Hawaii | Pineapple Glaze | Honey ham |
Don’t be afraid to adapt these gravies to your taste. Swap ingredients, adjust spices, or blend two styles for something unique. With global inspiration, your next ham and mashed potatoes meal can feel like a culinary adventure.
FAQs on Gravy for Ham and Mashed Potatoes
Why does gravy matter?
Gravy matters because it adds extra flavor to food, making dishes like meat and potatoes tastier and more enjoyable. It’s like the special touch that makes a meal complete.
Find out how to thicken gravy in a crockpot.
How thick should the gravy be?
The gravy should be thick enough to coat the spoon’s back lightly. It should be smooth enough that it pools on the plate and thick enough that it globs.
The ideal consistency is smooth and pourable, offering a rich taste without overpowering the main dish.
Can gravy be healthy?
Yes, gravy can be healthy when made with mindful ingredient choices. Use low-fat broths and cut down on salt. Adding fresh herbs makes gravy healthier for your meal.
To make a healthier gravy, skip the extra butter and cream. Use whole-grain flour to thicken it instead.
Final Thoughts
The best gravy to accompany ham and mashed potatoes should strike the perfect balance, enhancing and harmonizing the flavors.
A fruity, tangy gravy, like pineapple- or apple-based options, can offer a delightful contrast to the saltiness of the ham. For those preferring a savory touch, a mustard or brown sugar gravy can be an excellent choice.
With their versatile flavor profile, mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with a classic, creamy white gravy enriched with herbs or garlic.
Choosing gravy is all about personal taste. It should create a balance that turns each bite into a burst of flavor. This makes the meal not only filling but also deeply satisfying.
References:
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/82904/old-fashioned-brown-gravy/
- https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/cheese-sauce
