Grandma Ruby'S Season For Gravy
Grandma Ruby's Season for Gravy is a flavorful, versatile mix of fresh vegetables and hot peppers, perfect for adding a homemade touch to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop bell peppers, celery, onions, parsley, hot peppers, and tomatoes.
- Add salt to season.
- Cook all ingredients until tender, then cool.
- Spoon into plastic ice trays or Ziploc bags and freeze the mixture.
- If using ice trays, once frozen, transfer to Ziploc bags and use as needed for gravy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or a splash of vinegar to the mixture. You can substitute the hot peppers with milder varieties if you prefer less heat. Fresh herbs can also enhance the taste; try using thyme or oregano along with the parsley. Make sure to chop the vegetables evenly for even cooking, and adjust the salt to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This gravy base is perfect for enhancing dishes like mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. You can mix it into soups or stews for added depth. Pair it with roasted meats or serve over a Winter Salad Pickles for a delightful contrast. It also works well as a flavorful addition to a vegetarian dish, complementing various vegan recipes beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Once the gravy mixture is cooled, transfer it to airtight containers or Ziploc bags for freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to six months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. Avoid reheating in a microwave to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Ruby'S Season For Gravy contains roughly 11 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 499mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used instead of canned for a fresher taste. Just make sure to peel and chop them before adding them to the mixture. You may need to adjust the seasoning since fresh tomatoes can vary in sweetness and acidity compared to canned ones.
How can I make this gravy spicier?
To increase the heat, add more hot peppers or a splash of hot sauce during cooking. You can also experiment with spices like cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. Start with small amounts to gauge your preferred level of spiciness and adjust gradually.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to include other vegetables like carrots, garlic, or even zucchini. Just make sure to chop them finely and adjust cooking times accordingly, as some vegetables may take longer to soften than others. This versatility allows you to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).