For many across the UK, a Sunday roast is a cherished weekly ritual, but it can be easily undermined by one culinary pitfall: disappointing gravy. Whether it's too thin and watery or unpleasantly thick and lumpy, imperfect gravy can let down an otherwise splendid meal.
The BBC Food Solution: A Simple Slurry
Thankfully, culinary experts at BBC Food have shared a remarkably straightforward technique to banish gravy disasters for good. In a social media post from November 2025, they demonstrated an easy method to rectify consistency issues, ensuring a smooth, rich sauce every time.
The secret, they reveal, is a common kitchen staple: cornflour. The key is to never add the powder directly to the hot gravy, as this is a guaranteed route to lumps.
How to Create the Perfect Gravy Consistency
Instead, the professionals advise creating a 'slurry'. "Mix two tablespoons of cornflour with two tablespoons of cold water," instructed BBC Food. "You want to make sure that all the cornflour dissolves so there are no lumps."
Once your slurry is perfectly smooth, get your gravy on a medium-high heat and begin to whisk in the mixture. You will notice the gravy start to thicken almost immediately, allowing you to control the final texture with precision.
How to Fix Over-Thickened Gravy
The experts have also provided a handy rescue remedy for those who get over-enthusiastic with the thickening process. If your gravy becomes too thick, simply add boiling water a little at a time, whisking continuously, until it loosens back up to your preferred consistency.
This simple yet effective tip from BBC Food arms home cooks with the confidence to produce delicious, lump-free gravy that will perfectly complement any Sunday roast, turning a potential kitchen frustration into a guaranteed success.
