Asda has settled the great gravy debate with a survey of 2,000 Brits, revealing the nation's preferred shade, consistency, and serving size for the Sunday roast staple. The results, dubbed the 'Gravy Grid', indicate that the ultimate gravy is medium brown and thick enough to lightly coat a spoon – corresponding to option 5B on the chart.
According to the poll, 59 per cent of respondents favour a medium thickness, while 35 per cent prefer thick or very thick gravy. Only five per cent like it thin and broth-like. When it comes to serving size, 57 per cent believe the first helping should be no more than 35ml (roughly two large tablespoons), but 35 per cent think double that is acceptable, enough to fill a Yorkshire pudding.
Temperature is also key: 46 per cent said gravy should be very hot, at precisely 74°C, to produce a steamy aroma when poured. Asda's official 'Christmas Gravy Sommelier', Sam Nixon, said: 'I've sniffed, swirled and slurped more gravy than I ever thought possible. Working with Asda's chefs has shown me what really matters to people – the heat, the shine, the viscosity.'
The survey follows a separate formula for perfect gravy from food scientist Dr Nathan Kilah of the University of Tasmania. He suggests adding teriyaki, soy, or Worcestershire sauce to broaden the flavour profile through sweetness, acidity, and umami. For those unhappy with their gravy, Dr Kilah recommends instant gravy powder as a reliable backup.
