Every Sunday roast deserves a flawless, velvety gravy to bring the meal together, but achieving that ideal consistency is a common kitchen challenge. A watery, thin sauce or a thick, lumpy mess can easily disappoint. Fortunately, culinary experts from BBC Food have shared a remarkably simple solution that promises to banish gravy disasters for good.
The Secret to Silky Smooth Gravy
In a social media post from November 2025, the BBC Food team demonstrated an easy fix that hinges on one humble, store-cupboard staple: cornflour. The experts were clear on the goal, stating that thin gravy is "sad and not a vibe" for a proper roast dinner. Their method ensures the right texture every single time.
How to Create the Perfect Cornflour Slurry
The technique is straightforward but requires a specific step to prevent lumps. Never add cornflour directly to hot gravy. Instead, you must first create a 'slurry'.
Mix two level tablespoons of cornflour with two tablespoons of cold water in a separate bowl or cup. It is crucial to whisk this mixture thoroughly until every bit of cornflour has dissolved completely, resulting in a smooth, milky liquid with no granules.
Next, bring your gravy to a medium-high heat on the hob. Once it is simmering, begin to add the cornflour slurry gradually, whisking continuously. You will notice the gravy start to thicken almost immediately. Adding the slurry slowly while whisking is the key to a perfectly smooth, lump-free finish.
How to Fix Over-Thickened Gravy
What if you get carried away and your gravy becomes too thick? The BBC Food professionals have a handy rescue plan for that, too. If you accidentally over-thicken the sauce, simply add boiling water a tiny bit at a time, whisking well after each addition. This will gently loosen the gravy back to your desired consistency without diluting the flavour.
This expert tip transforms gravy-making from a stressful guessing game into a foolproof process. With this cornflour slurry method in your culinary arsenal, you can confidently serve up rich, smooth, and delicious gravy that will make every Sunday roast a resounding success.
