How To Thicken Gravy With Almond Flour

You can thicken gravy with almond flour, and it’s a surprisingly easy swap that works well in most gravies.
 
Almond flour is finely ground blanched almonds, so it behaves a lot like a light, gluten-free thickener when you use it correctly.
 
The trick is knowing how much to use and how to add it so your gravy turns out smooth instead of lumpy or grainy.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to thicken gravy with almond flour, why it works, and the mistakes to avoid along the way.
 
Let’s get into it.
 

Why Almond Flour Thickens Gravy

Almond flour thickens gravy because its fine particles absorb liquid and swell, which adds body to the sauce.
 
Here’s why it works so well in gravy:
 

1. Almond Flour Absorbs Liquid

The main reason almond flour works as a thickener is its ability to soak up liquid.
 
Each tiny grain of almond flour pulls in moisture and expands, which naturally thickens the gravy around it.
 
That’s why a small amount of almond flour can go a long way in a pan of gravy.
 

2. It Contains Natural Starches and Fats

Almonds bring a little natural starch and healthy fat to the table, and both help create a richer texture.
 
The fat adds a velvety mouthfeel, while the starch helps bind everything together.
 
This is why gravy thickened with almond flour tastes a bit creamier than gravy thickened with plain flour.
 

3. It Blends Smoothly When Done Right

Almond flour can blend into a smooth gravy as long as you whisk it in properly.
 
Because the grains are so fine, they disperse quickly in warm liquid instead of clumping up like coarser nut meals tend to do.
 
So when you thicken gravy with almond flour the right way, you get a silky result rather than a gritty one.
 

How to Thicken Gravy With Almond Flour

Learning how to thicken gravy with almond flour comes down to a simple, reliable method.
 
Follow these steps and you’ll get a smooth, flavorful gravy every time:
 

1. Make a Slurry First

Never dump dry almond flour straight into hot gravy.
 
Instead, whisk a tablespoon or two of almond flour into a few tablespoons of cold water or broth until it forms a smooth paste.
 
This slurry is the secret to thickening gravy with almond flour without lumps.
 

2. Whisk It In Over Low Heat

With your gravy at a gentle simmer, slowly pour in the slurry while whisking constantly.
 
Keep the heat low, because almond flour thickens best when it has a few minutes to absorb liquid without boiling hard.
 
Stir as it cooks so every bit of flour gets a chance to swell evenly.
 

3. Simmer and Watch It Come Together

Let the gravy simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes, stirring now and then.
 
You’ll notice it start to thicken gravy with almond flour right before your eyes as the mixture bubbles gently.
 
If it gets too thick, just splash in a little extra broth to loosen it back up.
 

4. Add More Slurry if Needed

If your gravy still looks thin after simmering, make another small batch of slurry and whisk it in.
 
Use about one tablespoon of almond flour at a time so you don’t overshoot the texture.
 
This gradual approach is the safest way to thicken gravy with almond flour without turning it into paste.
 

Tips for Thickening Gravy With Almond Flour

A few small habits make a big difference when you thicken gravy with almond flour.
 
Keep these tips in mind:
 

1. Use Finely Ground Blanched Almond Flour

Choose finely ground blanched almond flour rather than almond meal.
 
Blanched flour is lighter and smoother, so it blends into gravy more easily and leaves less grit behind.
 
Almond meal, with its coarser texture and darker specks, can make your gravy look and feel a bit rustic.
 

2. Season After Thickening

Almond flour has a mild, nutty flavor that can mellow your gravy’s seasoning slightly.
 
Taste after the gravy has thickened and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to bring the flavor back into balance.
 

3. Don’t Overdo the Amount

Start with about one tablespoon of almond flour per cup of liquid and add more only if needed.
 
Too much almond flour can make gravy taste nutty or turn it heavy and pasty.
 
A light hand is the key to thickening gravy with almond flour successfully.
 

4. Serve It Warm

Almond flour gravy thickens further as it cools, so serve it while it’s still warm.
 
If you’re making it ahead, reheat gently and stir in a splash of broth to bring back the right consistency.
 

So, Can You Thicken Gravy With Almond Flour?

You can thicken gravy with almond flour, and it’s a handy gluten-free option that delivers smooth, creamy results.
 
The key is making a slurry first, whisking it in over low heat, and adding it gradually until your gravy reaches the texture you want.
 
With finely ground almond flour and a little patience, you’ll be thickening gravy with almond flour like a pro in no time.
 
Hope this post has helped you see just how easy it is to thicken gravy with almond flour and get it right every single time.