Are you a gravy lover, but concerned about the high sodium content in traditional gravy? Look no further than 1 Cup Low Sodium Poultry Gravy! With only 125 calories per serving, this flavorful alternative is perfect for those looking to reduce their sodium intake without sacrificing taste.
In addition to its low sodium content, this gravy is a good source of iron and protein, providing 4% and 6% of your daily recommended value, respectively. It's also gluten-free and contains no MSG.
In this article, we'll explore the benefits of low-sodium gravy, share strategies for incorporating it into your diet, compare its nutritional value to regular gravy, provide a recipe for making your own low-sodium gravy at home, and offer serving suggestions and brand recommendations.
The Benefits of Low-Sodium Gravy
Reducing your sodium intake can have many health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. By choosing low-sodium gravy, you can still enjoy the delicious flavor of gravy without the negative health effects of excess sodium. Low-sodium gravy is also a great option for those with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, kidney disease, or heart failure, which require them to limit their sodium intake.
How to Incorporate Low-Sodium Gravy into Your Diet
Low-sodium poultry gravy can be used in many different ways in your cooking. Try it as a topping for mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, or as a marinade for chicken or turkey. You can also use it to make a delicious gravy-based soup or stew. To incorporate low-sodium gravy into your diet, look for recipes that call for gravy and substitute this healthier alternative. You can also use it to flavor other dishes, such as meatloaf or Shepherd's pie.
The Nutritional Value of Low-Sodium Poultry Gravy
In addition to its low sodium content, low-sodium poultry gravy is a good source of iron and protein. One cup contains 4% of your daily recommended value of iron and 6% of your daily recommended value of protein. It's also relatively low in fat, with 2 grams per serving. However, it does contain some carbohydrates (10 grams) and sugar (1 gram). It's important to keep this in mind when incorporating it into your diet.
Comparison of Low-Sodium and Regular Gravy
Traditional gravy can be high in sodium, with some brands containing up to 600 mg per serving. In comparison, 1 Cup Low Sodium Poultry Gravy contains only 170 mg per serving. Regular gravy can also be high in fat and calories, with some brands containing over 200 calories and 15 grams of fat per serving. In contrast, low-sodium poultry gravy contains only 125 calories and 2 grams of fat per serving.
How to Make Low-Sodium Gravy at Home
Making your own low-sodium gravy can be a healthier and more cost-effective option than buying pre-made gravy. To make a basic low-sodium chicken gravy, you'll need:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking constantly. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until thickened to your liking. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions for Low-Sodium Poultry Gravy
Low-sodium poultry gravy can be used in a variety of ways to add flavor to your meals. Here are some serving suggestions:
- As a topping for mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles
- As a sauce for roasted vegetables, chicken, or turkey
- As a dip for bread or crackers
- As a base for soups or stews
Low-Sodium Gravy Options for Special Diets
If you have a special diet, such as gluten-free or vegetarian, you may wonder if low-sodium gravy is an option for you. The good news is that there are many low-sodium gravy options available to fit your dietary needs. For example, if you're gluten-free, look for gravy made with rice flour or cornstarch instead of wheat flour. If you're vegetarian, look for mushroom or vegetable gravy instead of poultry-based gravy.
Tips for Choosing Low-Sodium Gravy Brands
When shopping for low-sodium gravy, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you're making the best choice:
- Check the label for sodium content. Look for brands with less than 200 mg per serving.
- Check the label for fat and calorie content. Lower is generally better.
- Look for brands that don't contain MSG or other artificial additives.
- Read reviews to see how other customers rate the taste and quality of the gravy.
Low-Sodium Gravy and Weight Loss
If you're trying to lose weight, low-sodium gravy can be a helpful tool. By using low-sodium gravy instead of regular gravy, you can significantly reduce your calorie and fat intake. This can help you achieve your weight loss goals without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. However, it's important to keep in mind that low-sodium gravy still contains some calories and carbohydrates. To see the best results, be sure to incorporate it into a healthy, balanced diet and exercise routine.
Low-Sodium Gravy and Heart Health
Reducing your sodium intake can have significant benefits for your heart health. By choosing low-sodium gravy, you can help reduce your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. In addition, the iron and protein in low-sodium poultry gravy can provide valuable nutrients that support heart health. By incorporating this tasty alternative into your diet, you can help promote overall wellness and reduce your risk of heart-related health issues.
Choosing low-sodium gravy is a simple yet effective way to reduce your sodium intake and improve your overall health.
FAQs About Low Sodium Poultry Gravy
1. What makes this gravy low sodium?
This gravy is low sodium because it has less salt added to it than traditional gravies. This makes it a healthier option for those watching their sodium intake.
2. Is this gravy made with real poultry?
Yes, this gravy is made with real poultry stock and meat. It is a rich and flavorful option for those who enjoy the taste of poultry.
3. Can I use this gravy for other dishes besides poultry?
Yes, this gravy can be used for a variety of dishes besides poultry, such as mashed potatoes, meatloaf, or as a dipping sauce for vegetables.
4. Is this gravy gluten-free?
It depends on the brand and recipe. Some low sodium poultry gravies may contain gluten, so it is important to check the ingredients list carefully before consuming.
5. How many servings does 1 cup of gravy provide?
This depends on the serving size you use. The nutritional information stated that 1 cup of low sodium poultry gravy contains 125 calories. You could divide that into smaller servings based on your preference.