Smoky Roast Chicken with Gravy

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 whole chicken (1.5–1.8 kg)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp BlixSam Smoke Craft
• 1 tsp salt (optional)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 lemon, halved
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 garlic cloves, lightly crushed
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme

For the Gravy

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp cake flour
• 2 cups chicken pan drippings (or chicken stock if needed)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towel.
3. Rub the chicken all over with the olive oil, then season generously with BlixSam Smoke Craft, salt and black pepper.
4. Stuff the cavity with the lemon, onion, garlic and herbs.
5. Place the chicken on a roasting rack or in a roasting pan.
6. Roast for 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 75°C.
7. Remove from the oven and rest for 10–15 minutes before carving.

Gravy

1. Pour the pan juices into a saucepan and skim off excess fat if desired.
2. Melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in the pan juices (or chicken stock) until smooth.
5. Simmer for 5–8 minutes, stirring often, until thickened.
6. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.

Serving Suggestions

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Roast potatoes
• Roasted vegetables
• Green beans
• Smoky Tomato & Onion Smoor
• Garden salad
• Fresh bread rolls

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