Country Gravy

Introduction

History

Country gravy has its roots in Southern cuisine, where it is a staple in many households. The recipe has been passed down through generations and has become a beloved comfort food across the United States. It is often associated with hearty, home-cooked meals and is a popular choice for Sunday brunch or holiday dinners.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the flour until it is lightly toasted but not browned when making the white sauce. This will help to eliminate any raw flour taste in the gravy.

- Stir the gravy constantly while cooking to prevent lumps from forming and to ensure a smooth consistency.

- If the gravy becomes too thick, simply add a little more milk to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Country gravy is traditionally served over biscuits, fried chicken, mashed potatoes, or even vegetables. It can also be used as a topping for breakfast dishes like biscuits and gravy or served alongside roasted meats for dinner.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the flour until it is lightly toasted but not browned to eliminate any raw flour taste in the gravy.

- Stir the gravy constantly while cooking to prevent lumps from forming and to ensure a smooth consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch in place of regular flour for a gluten-free version of the gravy.

- Substitute vegetable oil or margarine for butter for a dairy-free version of the gravy.

Make Ahead Tips

Country gravy can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the gravy on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve country gravy in a gravy boat or small pitcher for easy pouring. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Country gravy pairs well with a variety of dishes, including biscuits, fried chicken, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even breakfast casseroles.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover country gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the gravy on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of country gravy typically contains around 150-200 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

Country gravy is a rich and creamy dish that is relatively high in carbohydrates due to the flour used to thicken the gravy. One serving of country gravy typically contains around 10-15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Country gravy is also high in fats, primarily from the butter used to make the roux and the milk used to create the white sauce. One serving of country gravy can contain around 10-15 grams of fat.

Proteins

While country gravy is not a significant source of protein, it does contain some protein from the milk used in the white sauce. One serving of country gravy typically contains around 2-4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Country gravy is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals. However, it does contain some calcium from the milk used in the white sauce. One serving of country gravy can provide around 10-15% of the recommended daily intake of calcium.

Alergens

Country gravy contains dairy (milk) and wheat (flour), which are common allergens. It is important to be mindful of any food allergies or sensitivities when preparing or consuming country gravy.

Summary

Country gravy is a rich and creamy dish that is high in carbohydrates and fats. While it is not a significant source of protein, it does provide some calcium from the milk used in the white sauce. One serving of country gravy typically contains around 150-200 calories.

Summary

Country gravy is a classic comfort food that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. This creamy and flavorful gravy is typically made with a combination of butter, flour, milk, and seasonings. It is a versatile dish that can be served over biscuits, fried chicken, mashed potatoes, or vegetables. Enjoy this homemade gravy with your favorite main dishes for a delicious and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Country Gravy. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my aunt's farm in the countryside. My aunt was known for her delicious comfort food, and I always looked forward to eating her hearty meals whenever I visited. That day, she was making biscuits and gravy for breakfast, and I was eager to learn how to make it.

As I watched her work in the kitchen, I noticed that she didn't follow a strict recipe. Instead, she relied on her instincts and experience to create the perfect gravy. She started by browning some flour in a skillet, then slowly whisked in milk until the mixture thickened into a creamy sauce. She seasoned it with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder, then poured it over freshly baked biscuits. The aroma that filled the kitchen was heavenly, and I couldn't wait to taste it.

After breakfast, I asked my aunt for the recipe, but she just chuckled and said, "Oh, honey, you don't need a recipe for country gravy. It's all about practice and intuition." She then handed me a skillet and a bag of flour, encouraging me to give it a try. I was a bit nervous at first, but with her guidance, I soon got the hang of it. As I stirred the gravy, I could feel a sense of connection to the generations of women who had cooked before me, passing down their knowledge and traditions through the simple act of making food.

Over the years, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations. Sometimes I would use bacon grease instead of butter for a smokier flavor, or stir in some crumbled sausage for extra richness. I learned to adjust the seasonings to suit my taste, adding a pinch of paprika for warmth or a splash of vinegar for a tangy kick. Each time I made country gravy, I felt a sense of pride and satisfaction, knowing that I was carrying on a tradition that had been handed down to me.

As I grew older, I started collecting recipes from friends and family members, building a repertoire of dishes that reflected the diverse culinary heritage of my loved ones. Some recipes were written on scraps of paper, faded and stained with age, while others were shared through word of mouth, passed down through generations like treasured heirlooms. Each recipe told a story, a connection to the past that resonated with me on a deep level.

One day, as I was going through my recipe box, I came across a yellowed piece of paper with my aunt's handwriting on it. It was the recipe for country gravy that she had taught me all those years ago. As I read through the instructions, memories flooded back to me, of lazy summer days spent in the kitchen, of laughter and love shared around the dinner table. I realized then that the true essence of cooking wasn't just about following a set of instructions, but about creating something that nourished the body and soul, something that brought people together in joy and fellowship.

And so, whenever I make country gravy now, I do it with a sense of reverence and gratitude for the women who came before me, who taught me the art of cooking with love and passion. Each time I whisk together flour and milk, each time I season the gravy with care and attention, I am honoring their legacy and preserving a tradition that will continue to thrive for generations to come. Cooking isn't just about food; it's about connection, about sharing a piece of yourself with others. And that, to me, is the true magic of a simple recipe for country gravy.

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