How to Make Ham Gravy with Cornstarch: Recipe Revealed

Last Updated on September 16, 2024 by Shari Mason

Many folks **love** putting ham gravy on their food, especially on special days. So, how does one get that *perfect* consistency and thickness?

In this guide, let me show you how to make ham gravy with cornstarch. It’s easy to use, and in no time, you can whip up a tasty ham gravy that everyone will love. 

Let’s dive in and learn the simple steps to make this delightful addition to your ham dinner!

Complete Guide On How To Make Ham Gravy With Cornstarch

1. Gather Your Ingredients:
   • Drippings from cooked ham (about 1-2 cups)
   • 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
   • 2 tablespoons of cold water
   • Salt and pepper to taste
2. Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry:
   • In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch [1] with cold water. Stir until it’s smooth.
3. Heat the Drippings:
   • After removing the ham from your roasting pan, place the pan on the stove over medium heat.
4. Add the Cornstarch Slurry:
   • Slowly whisk in the cornstarch mixture into the hot drippings. This will help thicken the gravy.
5. Stir and Simmer:
   • Continue to cook and stir until the gravy becomes thick and creamy. This usually takes about 2-4 minutes.
6. Season to Taste:
   • Add salt and pepper as needed. Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
7. Serve Warm:
   • Once the gravy reaches your desired consistency and taste, please remove it from heat and serve immediately with your ham.

“On Christmas Eve, we have a duck or roast pork with caramelised potatoes, braised red cabbage and gravy. For dessert, we have ris a l’amande, a rice pudding, and whoever gets the whole almond in it wins an extra present. Then we dance around the tree and sing carols.”

– Birgitte Hjort Sorensen, Danish Actress

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• How Does Rachel Ray Make Turkey Gravy?

Why Use Cornstarch In Ham Gravy?

Cornstarch is a popular choice in making ham gravy because it acts as a thickening agent without altering the natural flavors of the gravy. 

Unlike flour, which can sometimes make the gravy taste starchy or doughy, cornstarch gives the gravy a smooth and glossy finish. 

It also blends seamlessly without forming lumps, ensuring the gravy has a consistent and creamy texture. 

So, cornstarch is a reliable option if you’re looking for a way to thicken your ham gravy while maintaining its rich taste and appearance.

But what kind of gravy goes well with mashed potatoes and ham?

How Much Cornstarch Should I Use?

When making ham gravy with cornstarch, a general rule is to use 1 to 2 tablespoons for every cup of liquid you want to thicken. 

Mix the cornstarch with equal cold water to create a smooth paste called a slurry. 

Then, slowly whisk this slurry into your simmering gravy until it reaches the desired thickness. 

Remember, it’s always best to start with less cornstarch and add more if needed, as it’s easier to thicken the gravy further than it is to thin it down once it’s become too thick.

Can I Add Cornstarch Directly To The Ham Drippings?

No, adding cornstarch directly to the ham drippings [2] is not recommended. If you do, the cornstarch can form lumpy clumps that are hard to dissolve. 

Instead, always first mix the cornstarch with a bit of cold water to make a smooth paste, known as a slurry. This slurry ensures the cornstarch is evenly distributed when added to the hot drippings. 

“Crafting ham gravy with cornstarch: where tradition meets creamy perfection.”

– Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice

Once the slurry is smooth, you can gradually whisk it into the ham drippings or hot liquid. This method ensures a lump-free, silky-smooth gravy.

What If My Gravy Becomes Too Thick?

If your gravy becomes too thick, don’t worry! It’s an easy fix. Add a small amount of warm water, broth, or the liquid of your choice to the gravy, stirring continuously until it reaches your desired consistency. 

Always add the liquid gradually to avoid making the gravy too thin. If you’ve added too much liquid, let the gravy simmer for a few minutes to reduce and thicken again. 

Remember, achieving the perfect gravy consistency might require a bit of adjusting, but with patience, you’ll get it just right.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Crafting the perfect ham gravy with cornstarch is an art and a simple culinary technique. By harnessing the binding powers of cornstarch, you can achieve a smooth and luscious gravy texture without the worry of lumps. 

Remember the importance of mixing the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, ensuring the gravy remains lump-free. 

Additionally, by paying attention to the cornstarch-to-water ratio and carefully simmering the gravy after adding the slurry, you can quickly master the art of creating a flavorful ham gravy that will elevate your meal. 

Whether for a holiday dinner or a family gathering, this ham gravy technique is bound to impress.

References:

1. https://www.britannica.com/topic/cornstarch
2. https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/ham-gravy-recipe-1996042