Are you looking for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative to wheat flour when thickening your gravy?
Look no further than almond flour!
But before you start adding it to your gravy, there are a few things you should know.
While some sources claim that almond flour can be used to thicken gravy, others argue that it can leave your gravy gritty or give it a nutty flavor.
So, what’s the truth?
In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of using almond flour as a thickener and provide some tips for achieving the perfect texture and taste.
Let’s dive in!
Can You Use Almond Flour To Thicken Gravy?
The short answer is yes, you can use almond flour to thicken gravy. However, it’s important to note that not all almond flours are created equal.
If you use a finely ground almond flour, it will blend smoothly into your gravy without leaving any grittiness. On the other hand, if you use a coarser almond meal, it may not blend as well and could leave your gravy with a gritty texture.
Another thing to keep in mind is that if you use too much almond flour, it could give your gravy a nutty flavor. To avoid this, start by adding a small amount of almond flour at a time and taste as you go. This will help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor without overdoing it.
One of the benefits of using almond flour as a thickener is that it won’t clump up like traditional flour can. This means you can add it directly to your boiling gravy without worrying about lumps forming.
The Benefits Of Using Almond Flour To Thicken Gravy
There are several benefits to using almond flour as a thickener for your gravy. First and foremost, almond flour is a great low-carb and gluten-free option for those who are following a special diet. It’s also a good source of protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious addition to your meal.
Another benefit of using almond flour is that it creates a smooth and creamy texture in your gravy. Unlike traditional flour, which can sometimes leave your gravy with a grainy texture, almond flour blends smoothly and evenly into the liquid. This creates a velvety texture that is perfect for pouring over mashed potatoes, meat, or vegetables.
Additionally, almond flour is very easy to use. You simply whisk it into your hot liquid until it thickens to the desired consistency. There’s no need to make a roux or add any other thickeners like cornstarch or xanthan gum.
Finally, using almond flour as a thickener allows you to enjoy the rich flavor of your gravy without any added carbs or gluten. This makes it an excellent choice for those who are watching their carbohydrate intake or have gluten sensitivities.
The Potential Drawbacks Of Using Almond Flour In Gravy
While almond flour can be a great alternative to traditional flour for thickening gravy, there are some potential drawbacks to keep in mind.
Firstly, almond flour doesn’t contain starch, which is what gives structure to cooking liquid. As a result, it may not work as well as traditional flour for creating a thick and creamy texture.
Secondly, if you use too much almond flour, your gravy may become heavy and dense. This is because almond flour absorbs liquid differently than traditional flour, so it’s important to add it gradually and in small amounts.
Additionally, if you use a coarser almond meal instead of a finely ground almond flour, it may leave a gritty texture in your gravy. This can be avoided by using a high-quality, finely ground almond flour.
Finally, using almond flour can also give your gravy a slightly nutty flavor. While this may be desirable in some dishes, it’s important to consider whether it will complement the other flavors in your gravy.
Tips For Achieving The Perfect Texture And Taste With Almond Flour
If you’re new to baking or cooking with almond flour, here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect texture and taste:
1. Choose the right type of almond flour: As mentioned earlier, almond flour comes in different textures. For gravy, it’s best to use a finely ground almond flour to avoid any grittiness.
2. Add almond flour gradually: Start by adding a small amount of almond flour at a time and whisk it into your gravy. This will help you achieve the desired thickness without overdoing it.
3. Taste as you go: As you add the almond flour, taste your gravy to ensure that it’s not becoming too nutty in flavor. If it is, stop adding more and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Use a whisk: Whisking the almond flour into your gravy will help prevent any lumps from forming.
5. Adjust other ingredients: To balance out the nutty flavor of the almond flour, you may need to adjust other ingredients in your recipe. For example, you could add more salt or herbs to enhance the overall flavor.
By following these tips, you can achieve a smooth and flavorful gravy using almond flour as a thickener.
Other Low-Carb And Gluten-Free Thickeners To Consider
If you’re looking for other low-carb and gluten-free options to thicken your gravy, there are several alternatives to consider.
1. Xanthan Gum: This is a popular thickener for gluten-free cooking and baking. It’s made from a fermented sugar and can be used in small amounts to thicken gravy without adding any carbs. It’s also great for creating a smooth, creamy texture.
2. Coconut Flour: While coconut flour can be gritty when used in large amounts, it can work well as a thickener when used sparingly. It’s also low in carbs and high in fiber, making it a good choice for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet.
3. Psyllium Husk Powder: This powder is high in soluble fiber and can create a thick gel when mixed with water. It’s great for adding chewiness to recipes like bread, and can be used as a thickener in gravy as well.
4. Flaxseed Meal: This is another great option for adding bulk to your gravy without adding carbs. It’s high in fiber and has a nutty flavor that can complement savory dishes.
5. Glucomannan Powder: This powder is rich in soluble fiber and can be used to create chewy cookies and breads. It can also be used as a thickener for gravy, but should be used sparingly as it can create a very thick texture.
When using any of these thickeners, it’s important to start with a small amount and gradually add more until you achieve the desired consistency. And as always, taste as you go to make sure you’re happy with the flavor.
Recipes To Try Using Almond Flour As A Thickener In Gravy.
If you’re looking to experiment with using almond flour as a thickener in your gravy, here are some recipes to try:
1. Keto Gravy Recipe: This recipe uses almond flour as a thickener to create a thick and rich gravy without adding extra carbs. It’s perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
2. Almond Flour Biscuits and Keto Gravy Recipe: This recipe combines the goodness of biscuits with the comfort of gravy. The almond flour biscuits are easy to make and pair perfectly with the rich and creamy keto gravy.
3. Low Carb Sausage Gravy: This recipe uses almond flour along with xanthan gum to create a smooth and creamy gravy that’s perfect for serving over breakfast biscuits.
4. Paleo Gravy: This recipe uses almond flour as a thickener along with coconut milk to create a delicious and creamy gravy that’s paleo-friendly.
5. Gluten-Free Turkey Gravy: This recipe uses almond flour as a thickener along with turkey drippings to create a flavorful and gluten-free gravy that’s perfect for Thanksgiving.
Remember, when using almond flour as a thickener, it’s important to use a finely ground flour and add it slowly to avoid clumping and gritty texture. With these recipes, you can enjoy the deliciousness of gravy without the added carbs and gluten.
