Maple gravy with fresh sage is a delicious twist on classic gravy that combines the sweet, rich flavor of maple syrup with the earthy warmth of fresh sage. This unique gravy is perfect for holiday meals, adding a comforting and flavorful touch to roasted meats, mashed potatoes, and vegetables. It’s easy to make and brings out the best in savory dishes with its sweet-savory balance and herby aroma.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to make maple gravy with fresh sage, along with tips for achieving the perfect texture, variations for extra flavor, and pairing ideas.

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1. Ingredients for Maple Gravy with Fresh Sage

Here’s what you’ll need to create this aromatic, sweet-savory gravy:

• Butter or Olive Oil – 3 tablespoons
• All-Purpose Flour – 3 tablespoons (for thickening)
• Broth – 2 cups (chicken or vegetable broth works best)
• Maple Syrup – 2 tablespoons (pure maple syrup for the best flavor)
• Fresh Sage – 1 tablespoon, finely chopped
• Salt and Black Pepper – to taste
• Heavy Cream or Milk – 1/4 cup (optional, for a creamier texture)

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2. Step-by-Step Instructions for Maple Gravy with Fresh Sage

Follow these steps to make smooth and flavorful maple gravy with sage:

Step 1: Make the Roux

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter (or heat olive oil) over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring continuously, for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes golden and smells nutty. This forms a roux that will thicken the gravy.

Step 2: Add the Broth

1. Slowly pour in the broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Maple Syrup and Fresh Sage

1. Stir in the maple syrup and chopped fresh sage, mixing well to incorporate the flavors.
2. Continue to simmer the gravy for 5-7 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Season and Adjust Consistency

1. Season the gravy with salt and black pepper to taste.
2. For a creamier gravy, stir in the heavy cream or milk and cook for an additional 2 minutes until smooth.
3. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of extra broth to thin it out as needed.

Step 5: Serve Warm

1. Remove from heat and serve the gravy warm over your favorite holiday dishes.
2. Garnish with additional sage leaves if desired for a festive touch.

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3. Tips for Perfect Maple Gravy with Fresh Sage

3.1 Use Pure Maple Syrup

Pure maple syrup has the best flavor for this gravy, adding a natural sweetness that complements the fresh sage.

3.2 Whisk Continuously for Smooth Gravy

Whisking while adding the broth prevents lumps and creates a smooth, velvety texture.

3.3 Adjust Thickness to Your Liking

If the gravy is too thick, add more broth a little at a time. If too thin, simmer a bit longer or add a bit more flour to thicken.

3.4 Add Cream for Extra Richness

For an even richer gravy, add a splash of heavy cream or milk, which balances the sweet maple and earthy sage flavors.

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4. Flavor Variations

4.1 Maple Bourbon Gravy

Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon along with the maple syrup for a deeper, smoky flavor that’s perfect for holiday feasts.

4.2 Garlic and Herb Maple Gravy

Add 1 clove of minced garlic along with fresh thyme leaves to the gravy for a boost of savory, herbal flavor.

4.3 Spicy Maple Gravy

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy for a slight kick that complements the maple sweetness.

4.4 Mushroom Maple Gravy

Sauté finely chopped mushrooms with the butter before adding the flour to create a hearty, earthy gravy that pairs well with roasted vegetables.

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5. Serving Suggestions

Maple gravy with fresh sage pairs wonderfully with a variety of savory dishes. Here are some delicious pairing ideas:

• With Roast Turkey or Chicken: The sweet and savory flavors complement roasted poultry beautifully.
• With Mashed Potatoes: Pour over creamy mashed potatoes for a cozy, comforting side.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle over roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or squash for extra flavor.
• With Pork Tenderloin: The maple sweetness and sage are a perfect match for pork dishes, making this gravy a great pairing for pork tenderloin or chops.

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6. Storing Leftovers

Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth to thin it out if it has thickened in the fridge.

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7. Making Ahead for Holiday Gatherings

Maple gravy can be made ahead for easy serving during busy holiday meals:

1. Prepare the Gravy: Make the gravy as directed and allow it to cool completely.
2. Store and Reheat: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Add a bit of extra broth if the gravy has thickened too much.

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FAQ

1. Can I make this gravy gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch in place of all-purpose flour to thicken the gravy.

2. Can I use dried sage instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of dried sage in place of fresh sage, though fresh sage provides a brighter flavor.

3. Can I make this gravy vegan?

Yes! Use olive oil or vegan butter in place of butter, and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegan version.

4. Can I freeze maple gravy?

Yes, maple gravy can be frozen. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

5. How can I make the gravy sweeter?

Add an extra tablespoon of maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter flavor, but be mindful as it may overpower the savory notes.

6. Can I add other herbs to the gravy?

Yes, thyme, rosemary, or parsley make great additions. Just be sure not to overwhelm the sage flavor.

7. Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, milk works as a lighter alternative to cream and still adds a bit of creaminess to the gravy.

8. How do I make the gravy thicker?

To thicken, simmer the gravy a bit longer, or create a slurry with a teaspoon of flour and a tablespoon of water, then whisk it in.

9. Should I strain the gravy before serving?

This is optional. If you prefer a very smooth gravy, strain it through a fine mesh sieve to remove any bits of sage or flour lumps.

10. What can I do if my gravy is too thin?

Simply let it simmer a bit longer or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to thicken it.

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Maple gravy with fresh sage is a delightful, comforting addition to any holiday or special meal. Its sweet-savory flavor profile and creamy texture make it a unique, memorable gravy that will elevate your favorite holiday dishes. Enjoy this flavorful, festive twist on a classic gravy!