Perfect Slurry to Thicken Sauces

Prep Time

5 minutes

Cook Time

Varies depending on the sauce

Total Time

5 minutes + sauce cooking time

Servings

Varies depending on the sauce volume

Yield

Varies

Calories

Negligible (varies depending on the sauce)

A slurry is a culinary essential, acting as a magic wand for chefs and home cooks alike, transforming runny sauces into rich, velvety concoctions with just a simple stir. This Perfect Slurry to Thicken Sauces is a foolproof method that combines either cornstarch or flour with a liquid, usually water or broth, to create a smooth paste that integrates seamlessly into your sauce, thickening it without altering its flavor. Ideal for fine-tuning the consistency of gravies, stews, soups, and more, this technique is incredibly straightforward yet impactful, making it an indispensable tool in the kitchen. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or simply elevate your everyday meals, mastering this slurry method will ensure your sauces are always a cut above the rest.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons of cornstarch or all-purpose flour
1/4 cup of cold water or broth
Comments: Cornstarch is preferred for a clear, glossy finish, while flour is better for a more robust, opaque sauce.

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch or flour with the cold water or broth until completely smooth. This is your slurry.
Slowly pour the slurry into your simmering sauce, stirring constantly.
Continue to simmer and stir the sauce until it reaches your desired thickness and the raw flour or cornstarch taste has cooked out, usually about 2-3 minutes.
If the sauce isn’t thick enough, you can prepare another batch of slurry and add it in gradually until the desired consistency is achieved.

Tips & Tricks

Always mix the slurry with cold liquid to prevent lumps.
Add the slurry to the sauce gradually, and keep stirring to ensure it blends well.
For a richer flavor, use broth instead of water to make the slurry.
If over-thickened, thin the sauce by gradually adding more liquid until the desired consistency is reached.

Mise en Place

Ingredients

Utensils

Cornstarch or all-purpose flour
Cold water or broth

Small bowl
Whisk
Saucepan (for the sauce)

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