Simple Brown Gravy - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 cups water
1 teaspoon beef bouillon (or to taste, I use a mix of low sodium & sodium free so I use more)
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon Kitchen Bouquet
2 tablespoons butter or 2 tablespoons margarine
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon onion powder
thickener
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons cold water
OR
2 tablespoons oil
2 tablespoons flour

Preparation

Boil all ingredients in a pot together, except for thickener.
Once the mixture boils, mix the cold water + cornstarch / oil + flour into a slurry / paste in a small bowl. You may need to add a tiny bit more water, but it should be the consistency of runny glue with cornstarch, and a paste with the flour.
Slowly pour in thickener, while stirring. Continue boiling for 2-3 more minutes, still stirring. If you're using flour and oil, simmer at least 5 minutes to be sure the flour cooks. Remove from heat and let cool to thicken more.