White gravy, also known as country gravy, is a classic comfort food staple that is perfect for drizzling over biscuits, fried chicken, mashed potatoes, or even vegetables. Making homemade white gravy from scratch is a simple process that requires just a few basic ingredients and some patience. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps of making delicious white gravy in your own kitchen.
Contents
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Melt Butter
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Be careful not to let the butter burn.
Step 2: Add Flour
Once the butter is melted, add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the saucepan. Stir the flour into the butter until it forms a smooth paste, known as a roux.
Step 3: Cook the Roux
Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste. Be careful not to let the roux burn.
Step 4: Add Milk
Gradually pour 1 cup of milk into the saucepan while whisking continuously. This will help prevent lumps from forming in your gravy.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow the gravy to simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Season
Season the white gravy with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings, such as garlic powder or onion powder, for extra flavor.
Step 7: Serve
Once the gravy has reached your desired consistency and flavor, remove it from the heat and serve hot. White gravy is traditionally served over biscuits, fried chicken, mashed potatoes, or any dish of your choice.
Tips for Making Perfect White Gravy:
- Use cold milk: Adding cold milk to the roux helps prevent lumps from forming in your gravy.
- Whisk continuously: Stirring or whisking constantly while adding the milk will help create a smooth and creamy gravy.
- Adjust the consistency: If your gravy is too thick, you can add more milk to thin it out. If it is too thin, you can simmer it for longer to thicken it.
- Experiment with seasonings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your white gravy by adding herbs, spices, or even cooked bacon for extra flavor.
- Double the recipe: If you’re serving a crowd or want leftovers, double the recipe to make extra gravy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making White Gravy:
- Burning the roux: Be sure to cook the roux over low heat and stir constantly to avoid burning.
- Not seasoning enough: Taste your gravy as you go and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- Not simmering long enough: To achieve the desired thickness, be patient and allow the gravy to simmer for the appropriate amount of time.
- Using hot milk: Cold milk added gradually is key to a smooth and lump-free gravy.
Conclusion
Homemade white gravy is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. By following this step-by-step guide, you can create a creamy and flavorful white gravy that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it over biscuits for breakfast or smothering it on fried chicken for dinner, homemade white gravy is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
So next time you’re craving comfort food or looking for a simple sauce to elevate your dish, try making homemade white gravy from scratch. It’s easy, delicious, and guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds!
