Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or pan drippings
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (480ml) chicken or beef broth (vegetable broth works too)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Make a roux:
   • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. If you’re using pan drippings from a roasted meat, that’s even better for added flavor.
   • Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter or drippings and whisk continuously to create a smooth paste, known as a roux.
2. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This helps remove the raw taste of the flour.
3. Gradually pour in the broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth.
4. Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes or until it thickens to your desired consistency. If it gets too thick, you can add more broth to reach the desired thickness.
5. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any lumps or bits.
7. Once the gravy reaches the desired thickness and is well-seasoned, remove it from the heat. Pour it into a gravy boat or a serving dish.

This easy gravy is a versatile base, and you can customize it by adding herbs, spices, or even a splash of wine for extra flavor. Enjoy it with your favorite dishes!