Delia Smith’s ‘really good onion gravy’ is rich, flavourful, and made with simple ingredients. Perfect for roasts, Toad in the Hole, or any winter meal.
Delia Smith’s onion gravy recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering rich.
Whether you’re tucking into a traditional Sunday roast, a classic Toad in the Hole, or any number of comfort dishes, this gravy will take it to the next level. Best of all, it’s made with just 7 ingredients – most of which you probably have in your kitchen, making it easy to whip up at home.
For those who prefer a vegetarian version, Delia’s recipe works beautifully without any meat juices. Just substitute with vegetable stock, and you’re all set. If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, be mindful of Worcestershire sauce, as some versions contain anchovies. You can always check the label for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Delia’s Complete How to Cook cookbook is packed with tried-and-tested recipes, and this onion gravy is a prime example of how basic ingredients, when treated with care, can create something utterly delicious.
Method
Start by placing your frying pan over a high heat. Add the oil or fat, and when it’s smoking hot, stir in the chopped onion. Keep the onions moving with a wooden spoon, allowing them to brown and caramelise at the edges. This should take around 20 minutes, but after 10 minutes, lower the heat to medium to ensure they don’t burn.
Once the onions are beautifully browned, add the butter to the pan. Stir in the sauce flour quickly, making sure the flour is well absorbed. Then, stir in the mustard powder, followed by the vegetable stock, a little at a time. Keep stirring until the gravy reaches your desired thickness.
Add the Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and freshly milled black pepper to taste. Let the gravy simmer gently for about 10 minutes to deepen the flavor. Finally, pour the rich, golden gravy into a warmed serving jug and enjoy.
Ingredients
1 large onion, peeled and roughly chopped into large pieces
1 dessertspoon groundnut oil, dripping, or lard
1 small knob of butter
1 dessertspoon Worcestershire sauce (ensure it’s vegetarian if needed)
1 level teaspoon mustard powder
425ml vegetable stock (preferably made with Marigold Swiss vegetable bouillon)
1 rounded dessertspoon sauce flour or plain flour
Salt and freshly milled black pepper
This delicious onion gravy pairs perfectly with Delia’s Toad in the Hole recipe, but feel free to pour it over whatever winter warmers you’re enjoying. It’s versatile, flavorful, and guaranteed to be a hit at your next dinner table.