Homemade gravy is a comforting addition to many dishes, but its calorie content is not a fixed number. Unlike packaged gravies with standardized nutrition labels, the homemade version's caloric value is directly influenced by the specific ingredients and proportions you use. Understanding these variables is key to controlling the nutritional impact of your meal.
The Variable Nature of Homemade Gravy Calories
There is no single answer to the question of how many calories are in 2 tablespoons of homemade gravy because the recipe and ingredients are in constant flux. The calorie count can swing from a relatively low figure, similar to a basic broth-based sauce, to a much higher one, rivaling a fatty cream sauce. A typical 2-tablespoon serving of homemade gravy can range from about 40 to over 100 calories, depending on the following factors:
The Major Calorie Contributors
- Fat from Meat Drippings: The primary source of calories in traditional gravy is the rendered fat from roasted meat. Using rich, fatty drippings from a turkey or roast beef significantly increases the fat and, consequently, the total calorie count. Skimming some of this fat off the top before making the roux is one of the easiest ways to reduce calories without sacrificing much flavor.
- Butter: Many recipes call for additional butter to make the roux (the mixture of fat and flour that thickens the sauce). Butter is a high-calorie ingredient, and each tablespoon adds over 100 calories and about 12 grams of fat to the total.
- Flour: While not as calorie-dense as fat, flour is a carbohydrate that contributes to the final count. The amount of flour used to achieve the desired thickness can add a noticeable number of calories, especially in larger batches.
- Stock or Broth: The liquid base also plays a role. Store-bought, full-sodium broths often contain more calories than homemade or reduced-sodium options. Using low-fat or fat-free stock can be a simple way to lighten up your gravy.
A Sample Homemade Gravy Breakdown
Let's walk through a hypothetical calorie calculation for a basic homemade beef gravy. This illustrates how to get a more accurate number for your own recipe.
Recipe Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons beef drippings (about 1 tbsp fat skimmed off) - Approx. 200 calories
- 2 tablespoons butter - Approx. 204 calories
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour - Approx. 114 calories
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth - Approx. 30 calories
- Salt and pepper - 0 calories
Total Recipe Calories: ~548 calories
If this recipe yields about 2 cups (32 tablespoons), the calories per 2-tablespoon serving would be: 548 calories / 16 servings = 34.25 calories per 2 tbsp.
This simple example shows how different ingredient choices can quickly change the final calorie count. Skimming all the fat and using less butter, for instance, could bring this number down significantly.
How to Reduce the Calorie Count in Your Gravy
For those looking to enjoy homemade gravy with fewer calories, several strategies can be employed during preparation:
- Skim the Fat: After cooking, let the pan drippings sit. The fat will rise to the top. Skim off as much as possible before starting your roux.
- Substitute Thickening Agents: Replace some or all of the flour with cornstarch. A cornstarch slurry thickens gravy efficiently and is lower in calories than a traditional butter-flour roux.
- Use Healthier Fats: If you need to supplement drippings, use a healthier fat like olive oil or a small amount of butter, but be mindful of the calorie content.
- Opt for Low-Sodium Broth: Store-bought stock can be high in sodium and sometimes contain more calories. Using a low-sodium version allows you to control the salt content and often reduces the calorie count.
- Add Vegetables and Herbs: Sautéing onions, mushrooms, and herbs like thyme or rosemary can add depth of flavor and nutrients without adding significant calories.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought: A Nutritional Comparison
| Feature | Homemade Gravy | Store-Bought Gravy |
|---|---|---|
| Calorie Count (per 2 tbsp) | Highly variable, often higher due to fresh fat and butter | Standardized, often lower (approx. 40-60 calories) |
| Fat Content | Higher fat from meat drippings and butter | Generally lower fat content, designed for shelf stability |
| Sodium Content | Fully controllable, depends on the stock used | Often very high in sodium to enhance flavor |
| Ingredients | Whole, natural ingredients (pan drippings, butter, flour, broth) | Contains additives, flavor enhancers, and preservatives for longevity |
| Flavor Profile | Rich, complex, and customizable | Consistent, but often less complex and can taste artificial |
Calculating Your Own Gravy's Nutrition
To get the most accurate calorie count for your homemade gravy, you need to calculate the calories for each individual ingredient and then divide the total by the number of servings. The process is straightforward:
- List Ingredients: Write down every ingredient and its exact quantity (e.g., 2 tbsp butter, 1/4 cup flour).
- Find Caloric Values: Use a reliable online nutritional database, like the USDA, to look up the calories for each ingredient quantity.
- Sum Total Calories: Add up the calories for all the ingredients to find the recipe's total caloric content.
- Determine Servings: Measure the total volume of your finished gravy to calculate the number of servings. For example, if you have 2 cups (16 fluid ounces), you have 16 two-tablespoon servings.
- Divide for Final Count: Divide the total calories by the number of servings to get the calories per serving.
This method gives you complete control and accuracy over your nutritional information. For additional guidance, sites like Allrecipes provide excellent resources for modified, healthier recipes and cooking techniques.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the calorie count for 2 tablespoons of homemade gravy is a reflection of your ingredient choices. While it can be more caloric than its store-bought counterparts due to higher fat content from drippings and butter, making it from scratch offers unparalleled flavor and complete nutritional control. By strategically skimming fat, swapping thickeners, and using low-sodium stock, you can significantly lower the calories without sacrificing the rich taste that makes homemade gravy so special. Whether you prefer a rich, traditional version or a lighter, healthier alternative, the power to define its nutritional profile is in your hands.
