Half of British Families Admit They Have a Christmas Gravy Guzzler
62% of Brits believe gravy to be the most VITAL part of a roast dinner, however 47% claim someone in their family is guilty of taking more than they should – not leaving enough for others.
As many as 78% say as soon as the jug is placed on the table, their family make a mad dash, with the nation’s DADS emerging as the most likely culprits for sloshing too much sauce on their plates (26%), according to the poll by Asda.
But the debate has FINALLY been solved, as according to the data, the acceptable amount of gravy to take, according to the majority (57%) is no more than 35ml (roughly two large tablespoons) for your first helping – in order that others are left with enough.
A third of gravy gluttons (35%) disagree, believing you should be allowed double that (70mls or four tablespoons) – enough to fill a Yorkshire Pudding.
A third (33%) of those polled insisted that however much gravy is made, they ALWAYS run out.
The majority (59%) prefer their gravy medium thickness, to coat a spoon lightly, while 35% like it thick or very thick. And just 5% prefer it thin and broth-like.
And in terms of the perfect colour and consistency – a 5 / B on the following colour to thickness gravy chart is optimum, according to the majority of those surveyed.
While almost half (46%) insist gravy should be STEAMING hot. Approximately 74C will produce a steamy aroma when poured onto meat and veggies.
Other gravy crimes, apart from taking too much, include serving it lumpy (51%), messing with someone else’s sauce on the stove (26%), drinking it from the plate after finishing your meal (21%) or coming in for seconds before anyone has finished their first helping (11%) – little wonder then that 29% say their family regularly fall out over the gravy boat.
But the research also revealed Brits aren’t gravy snobs – with as many as 67% saying they are happy to use granules.
A more militant 33% prefer to make it from scratch, with meat juices, wine and veggies.
The research was commissioned by Asda, who have enlisted TV presenter, cook-book author and proud Yorkshireman, Sam Nixon as the UK’s first Gravy Sommelier, learning to identify flavour notes, assess pouring techniques and grade colour, like a fine wine. The appointment comes as Asda launches three new gravies to accompany its centrepieces, in time for Christmas.
Sam Nixon, Asda’s official Christmas Gravy Sommelier, says: “I’ve sniffed, swirled and slurped more gravy than I ever thought possible. Working with Asda’s chefs has shown me what really matters to people – the heat, the shine, the viscosity. The Gravy Grid should make for some great conversations at the dinner table this year, and the new range from Asda should keep everyone happy!”
Rich Harding, Asda’s Chief Test Chef, said: “Gravy might seem simple, but the research shows it’s the make-or-break element of Christmas lunch for many families. From portion fairness to perfect thickness, people really care – and we’ve listened. Our goal this year is to help households enjoy a Christmas dinner that feels special, without the stress. That’s why we’ve worked hard to create a delicious, ready-made gravy that meets the nation’s expectations and takes the pressure off home cooks.”
The majority (36%) say mum’s gravy is best. While as many as 13% admit to pretending to prefer their other halves, when really, it’s their mums all the way.
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