Country gravy, also known as white gravy or sawmill gravy, is a classic Southern comfort food dish that is simple to make but rich in flavor. This creamy gravy is typically served over biscuits, chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes, or any other Southern-style dish. If you want to learn how to make delicious country gravy at home, follow these easy steps and enjoy a taste of the South!
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add Flour: Once the butter is melted, add the flour to the saucepan.
- Whisk: Whisk the flour and butter together to create a roux. Cook the roux for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add Milk: Slowly pour the milk into the saucepan while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking the gravy over medium heat until it thickens to your desired consistency (about 5-10 minutes).
- Serve: Once the gravy is thickened, remove it from the heat and serve hot over biscuits, chicken fried steak, or mashed potatoes.
Tips for Making Country Gravy:
Here are some tips to help you make the perfect country gravy:
- Use a Whisk: Whisking constantly while adding the milk will help prevent lumps from forming in the gravy.
- Adjust Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, you can add more milk. If it’s too thin, you can simmer it longer to thicken.
- Seasoning: Taste the gravy as it cooks and adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences. You can also add additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for extra flavor.
- Storage: Leftover gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Variations: You can customize your country gravy by adding cooked sausage, bacon, or even chopped herbs like thyme or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Healthier Alternatives:
If you’re looking for a healthier version of country gravy, consider using the following alternatives:
- Low-Fat Milk: Substitute whole milk with low-fat or skim milk to reduce the overall calorie content of the gravy.
- Lighter Butter: Instead of using regular butter, opt for a lighter spread or margarine to lower the fat content.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber and nutrients.
- Herbs and Spices: Enhance the flavor of your gravy with fresh herbs, such as rosemary or chives, and spices like paprika or cayenne pepper.
Conclusion:
Making country gravy at home is a simple and delicious way to bring a taste of the South to your kitchen. By following these easy steps and tips, you can create a creamy and flavorful gravy that will elevate any Southern-style dish. Whether you enjoy it over biscuits, chicken fried steak, or mashed potatoes, country gravy is sure to become a family favorite!
