chinese gravy in a pan with spring onions

Chinese Brown Sauce Recipe

Name: Chinese Gravy
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 250ml Stock (Beef or Chicken); 2 Stock Cubes; 1tbs (15g) Soft Brown Sugar; 1 tbs Oyster Sauce; 2 tsp Dark Soy Sauce; 1 tsp Mirin (Or white wine); 1/4 tsp Black pepper; 1 Brown Onion (Chopped); Cornflour + Water mix (50/50)

By Jon Andrew

About This Recipe

Chinese Gravy or Brown sauce is a base sauce that can be either Beef based or Chicken. It is used extensively in Western Chinese cuisine as a sauce for Rice and Noodle dishes.

I first made this recipe while I was looking for a Brown Sauce to add to some special fried rice and Chicken. I have since used it as a base for Chow-mein amongst other Chinese dishes.

History of Chinese Gravy
The history of Chinese brown sauce gravy is deeply rooted in traditional Chinese cuisine, where it serves as a versatile condiment that enhances the flavour of various dishes. Originating from the need to create a rich, savory sauce that complements stir-fried meats and vegetables, this gravy typically combines soy sauce, broth, and a blend of seasonings, including ginger and garlic.

Over time, regional variations have emerged, reflecting local ingredients and culinary practices. As Chinese cuisine spread globally, brown sauce became a staple in Chinese-American restaurants, further evolving to suit Western palates while maintaining its essential characteristics.

Today, it remains a beloved element of many Chinese dishes, symbolizing the fusion of tradition and adaptation in culinary arts.

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Serves: Six

Medium

Cook in: 5 min

Prep: 5 min

What equipment do you need ?

Whisk

Wok

Measuring Jug

Title

Wire Whisk

3 Pc Whisks Egg Beater Cakes Hand Blender Balloon Mix Stir Whip Wire Whisk Set

£3.99

Black Steel Wok, Chinese Non Stick Frying Pan 30CM 12"

A Black Steel Wok is a traditional Chinese cooking vessel, designed for versatility and efficiency in the kitchen.

Â£8.95 (Est.)

Plastic Measuring Jug

Measuring Jug 1L or 2L Clear Plastic Kitchen Freezer Microwave Dishwasher Safe

£5.99

What is Chinese Gravy?

Chinese gravy is not the same as a Roast Gravy, it is more of a thick sauce made with Soy and Oyster sauce.

It is used primarily as a base for many Chinese Takeaway meals and it can be addapted to many meals.

You can buy this gravy in the supermarket, but in my oppinion homemade always tastes better and you have the added satisfaction that you made it yourself. ...

Variations of Chinese Gravy
Chinese gravy comes in various forms, each offering a unique flavour that enhances a wide range of dishes.

Common variations include the savoury brown sauce, often made with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, which adds depth to stir-fries and meats.

Another popular option is the sweet and sour sauce, characterized by its tangy taste, typically achieved through a blend of vinegar and sugar, making it a favourite for dishes like sweet and sour chicken.

Additionally, there are lighter gravies, such as those based on chicken or vegetable stock, which provide a more subtle flavour while still complementing the ingredients they accompany.

Each variation serves to elevate the culinary experience, showcasing the versatility of Chinese cuisine.

How to make Chinese Gravy

Cuisine:Chinese

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Ingredients Nutrition Cost

250ml Stock (Beef or Chicken)
2 Stock Cubes
1tbs (15g) Soft Brown Sugar
1 tbs Oyster Sauce
2 tsp Dark Soy Sauce
1 tsp Mirin (Or white wine)
1/4 tsp Black pepper
1 Brown Onion (Chopped)
Oil
Cornflour + Water mix (50/50)

Egg freeNut free

Nutrition:
This is per 4 tablespoons
60ml

Calories: 140
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 32g

High sugar

Cost to make:
Â£1.60/ $2.07(Est.)

*Prices may vary.

Cooking Instructions

Fry off the Onions and any other veg in some oil in a pan or a Wok for a few minutes.
Then add the brown Sugar and allow to cook for a few more minutes.
While this is cooking make up the stock using two Stock Cubes, Black Pepper an Oyster Sauce.
When the Onions are cooked add the Stock to them and mix it together.
Then add the Dark Soy Sauce and Mirin to the Wok. Let this simmer for a few minutes.
Make up the Cornflour mix with 2 tsp of Cornflour and water (50/50), then slowly add this to the sauce until it thickens to the required consistency.

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Chefs Tips for making Chinese Brown Sauce

What is Chinese Brown Sauce used for ?

Chinese brown sauce is a versatile condiment commonly used in various dishes within Chinese cuisine, including stir-fry, noodles etc.

How long will Chinese brown sauce keep ?

The shelf life of Chinese brown sauce can vary depending on its ingredients and storage conditions. Kept in the refrigerator, this sauce will keep for 3 to 4 days in an air-tight container.