Why You’ll Love This Homemade Au Jus Recipe
When it comes to elevating a meal, homemade au jus is a game changer. I can’t tell you how much it enhances the flavor of roasted meats, especially beef.
The rich, savory taste adds depth that store-bought options just can’t match. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up and customize to your liking.
With just a few simple ingredients, I create a deliciously smooth sauce that pairs perfectly with everything from sandwiches to mashed potatoes.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never go back. It’s the secret to making any meal feel gourmet and special.
Ingredients of Homemade Au Jus
When it comes to whipping up homemade au jus, the ingredients are simple yet oh-so-essential. You might be surprised at how a handful of pantry staples can transform into a luscious, flavorful sauce. Seriously, this is one of those recipes that makes you feel like a culinary wizard, and who doesn’t want that?
So, let’s gather our ingredients and get ready to make something delicious.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons granulated beef bouillon (plus 1 teaspoon beef bouillon powder, or crushed bouillon cubes)
- 2 teaspoons granulated onion bouillon
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper (or red pepper for a little kick)
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Now, before you jump into making the mix, let’s chat about the ingredients a bit. The bouillon is key here—it’s where the heartiness comes from.
You can mix and match bouillon types, and I’ve even used vegetable bouillon in a pinch, but trust me, beef is where the flavor party happens. The onion bouillon adds that extra savory layer, and the spices are just the cherry on top, giving it that little zing.
And don’t forget about the cornstarch; it’s essential for thickening up your sauce to the perfect consistency. Just imagine spooning that velvety sauce over your favorite roast or dipping a sandwich in it. Absolute heaven, right?
How to Make Homemade Au Jus
Now that we’ve our ingredients all lined up, let’s plunge into making this delicious homemade au jus. First things first, grab a blender or food processor. You’ll need it to mix everything into a fine powder. Start with 2 tablespoons of granulated beef bouillon—this is where our flavor journey begins. Toss in 1 teaspoon of beef bouillon powder (or crushed bouillon cubes if that’s what you have on hand). Yes, I know, it sounds like we’re building a flavor bomb here, but trust me, it’s going to be worth it.
Next up, add 2 teaspoons of granulated onion bouillon to the mix. This little addition will take your sauce to the next level, giving it that savory depth that makes everything taste better. Then, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried parsley flakes, 1/8 teaspoon of black or red pepper (depending on how much kick you’re feeling), and 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Finally, don’t forget the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch; this is our secret weapon for thickening up that luscious sauce. Once all the ingredients are in the blender, give them a whirl until you have a fine powder. It’s like magic, watching those simple ingredients transform into something amazing.
Now that you have your homemade au jus mix ready to go, it’s time to use it. Grab a small saucepan and put in 2 1/4 teaspoons of your mix. Pour in 1 cup of cold water and stir it all together. Heat the saucepan on the stove, and keep stirring until it comes to a boil—this is where the transformation happens.
As it thickens, you can mix in a few drops of Kitchen Bouquet for color and flavor, and if you’re feeling fancy, toss in a pat of butter for that extra richness. Once it’s bubbling away, take a moment to savor the aroma—it’s hard not to feel like a gourmet chef at this point.
And just like that, you’ve created a velvety sauce that’s perfect for drenching over your roast or dunking a sandwich. Enjoy the fruits of your labor, and maybe even give yourself a little pat on the back—you deserve it!
Homemade Au Jus Substitutions & Variations
Creating your own homemade au jus is a rewarding experience, but sometimes you might want to mix things up or adapt the recipe based on what you have at home.
If you’re out of beef bouillon, chicken or vegetable bouillon works surprisingly well. For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of red wine or soy sauce. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the taste, while Worcestershire sauce adds depth.
If you prefer a thicker consistency, just increase the cornstarch. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for a unique twist. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
What to Serve with Homemade Au Jus
What can elevate a meal more than a rich, savory au jus? I love serving it alongside tender, juicy slices of roast beef or prime rib.
It’s perfect for dipping a warm, crusty baguette or even drizzling over mashed potatoes for added flavor. I also enjoy pairing it with French dip sandwiches, where the au jus becomes the star.
Don’t forget roasted vegetables; they soak up that delicious sauce beautifully. You can’t go wrong with a hearty pot roast, either!
Each bite becomes an indulgence with homemade au jus, making every meal feel special and satisfying. Enjoy every delicious drop!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your homemade au jus, keep in mind a few tips to enhance its flavor and consistency.
First, using high-quality beef stock makes a noticeable difference. If you have drippings from your roast, incorporate them for added richness.
I also recommend simmering the au jus longer to deepen the flavors. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning; a pinch of salt or a splash of soy sauce can elevate the taste.
Finally, for a smoother texture, strain the au jus before serving.
These simple tweaks will take your homemade au jus to the next level! Enjoy!