Step 1

Warm the broth or stock in a saucepan or in the microwave until steaming. Keep warm.

Step 2

Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, whisking constantly, until the roux is golden brown, 4 to 5 minutes. Whisk in the bouillon paste, if using.

Step 3

Whisking constantly and quickly, slowly ladle in warm broth about 1/2 cup at a time. Combine fully before adding more. The mixture will look crumbly and may even look curdled. It's ok! Trust the process.

Step 4

Once all the broth has been added, simmer the gravy for 3 to 4 minutes, whisking constantly, until thick and silky smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper (important! The exact amount will depend on unsalted/salted butter and/or regular or low-sodium broth/stock). Thin with additional broth, if desired.

Step 5

Serve immediately or keep warm to serve later. The gravy will thicken as it cools.