Savory Dog Food Gravy
Transform your dog's dry food into a mouthwatering meal with this Savory Dog Food Gravy! After adopting my grandmother's dog, I realized that she was struggling to adjust to a new diet; she was used to human food, and it took some time for her to embrace kibble. To ensure she received the essential nutrition required for a healthy life, I began introducing flavors she recognized. This homemade gravy recipe is not only budget-friendly but also crafted with care, using premade dog food that provides balanced nutrition. Rich in flavor and easy to prepare, this gravy will entice even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s free from harmful ingredients like onions, garlic, and salt—ensuring your furry friend enjoys a safe and delightful treat. Always consult your veterinarian for any dietary concerns regarding your beloved pet.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Dog food (ground, not chunks in gravy)
1 (13 ounce can)
Water
13 (ounces (to measure using dog food can))
Water
1 (tablespoon (for cornstarch mixture))
Cornstarch
1 (tablespoon)
Instructions
1
In a saucepan, combine the ground dog food from the can with 10 ounces of water. Warm the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally to blend the ingredients.
2
In a small bowl, mix the tablespoon of water with the tablespoon of cornstarch until smooth. Once combined, stir this mixture into the warming dog food mixture.
3
Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring constantly. Allow it to boil for about 1 minute, or until it thickens to your preference.
4
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture sit at room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes to cool slightly.
5
Once cooled, pour the mixture into a blender. Blend on high until smooth and there are no visible chunks. If the consistency is too thick, gradually add more water, one tablespoon at a time until the desired texture is achieved.
6
Transfer the gravy into a squeeze bottle or storage container for easy application. Store in the refrigerator, following the storage guidelines and best use date indicated on the can of dog food.
7
For serving, use about 1 tablespoon of gravy for every 1/2 to whole cup of dry dog food to enhance your dog's mealtime.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Dog Food Gravy?
It is a homemade meal topper designed to transform dry kibble into a mouthwatering meal for dogs.
Is this gravy safe for my dog?
Yes, it is free from harmful ingredients like onions, garlic, and salt, ensuring a safe treat for your pet.
Does this recipe contain onions or garlic?
No, this recipe is specifically crafted to be free from onions and garlic, which can be harmful to dogs.
What type of canned dog food should I use?
The recipe recommends using ground dog food rather than chunks in gravy for the best results.
How much water is needed for the base?
You should use 13 ounces of water, which can be measured using the empty dog food can.
What is the purpose of cornstarch in this recipe?
Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent to give the mixture a proper gravy consistency.
How do I prepare the cornstarch slurry?
Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with one tablespoon of water in a small bowl until smooth before adding it to the saucepan.
At what heat setting should I cook the gravy?
Warm the mixture over medium heat and then increase it slightly to bring it to a gentle boil.
How long should the mixture boil?
Allow the mixture to boil for about 1 minute or until it reaches your preferred thickness.
Why do I need to blend the gravy?
Blending on high ensures the gravy is completely smooth and free of visible chunks.
How long should the gravy cool before blending?
Let the mixture sit at room temperature for approximately 10 to 15 minutes to cool slightly before placing it in the blender.
What should I do if the gravy is too thick after blending?
Gradually add more water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired texture is achieved.
How should I store the finished dog gravy?
Transfer the gravy into a squeeze bottle or storage container and keep it in the refrigerator.
How long does the gravy stay fresh in the fridge?
Follow the storage guidelines and best use date indicated on the original can of dog food.
What is the recommended serving size for the gravy?
Use about 1 tablespoon of gravy for every 1/2 to 1 whole cup of dry dog food.
Is this recipe suitable for picky eaters?
Yes, the rich flavor is designed to entice even the most selective dogs to eat their kibble.
Does this gravy provide balanced nutrition?
Yes, it is crafted using premade dog food that provides essential and balanced nutrition.
Is this a budget-friendly recipe?
Yes, it is a cost-effective way to enhance your dog's meals using basic ingredients.
Should I consult a veterinarian before changing my dog's diet?
Yes, you should always consult your veterinarian regarding any dietary concerns or changes for your pet.
Can I use this gravy with any dry dog food?
Yes, it is designed to enhance any dry kibble to make it more appealing.
What kind of container is best for application?
A squeeze bottle is recommended for easy application and portion control.
Does this recipe contain added salt?
No, the recipe specifically avoids added salt to keep it healthy for dogs.
Is the recipe easy to prepare?
Yes, it is a simple process involving warming, thickening, and blending.
Can I skip the blending step?
Blending is recommended to ensure a smooth consistency that can be easily squeezed from a bottle.
What was the inspiration for this recipe?
It was created to help a dog transition from human food to a healthy kibble diet.
Can I use more than one tablespoon of gravy per meal?
The serving size is a suggestion; you can adjust based on your dog's size and veterinarian's advice.
Does the gravy need to be refrigerated?
Yes, because it contains meat-based dog food, it must be stored in the refrigerator.
What are the primary tags for this recipe?
The tags include dog food, dog gravy, homemade dog food, and healthy dog meal.
Can I add other spices to the gravy?
It is best to avoid adding spices as many, like onion and garlic powder, are toxic to dogs.
What if my dog doesn't like the consistency?
You can adjust the thickness by adding more water or boiling it slightly longer to suit your dog's preference.