I. Introduction
Country gravy is a classic Southern American dish that is enjoyed by many due to its creamy, savory taste that complements a wide range of dishes. In this article, we will offer a step-by-step guide on how to make country gravy from scratch, share some handy tips and tricks, and help you troubleshoot common issues that might arise. We will also show you some variations of the gravy recipe and share some creative serving suggestions. If you want to learn how to make delicious country gravy that would leave everyone asking for more, then this article is for you!
II. Step-by-Step Instructions
To make country gravy from scratch, you need:
- 1/4 cup of flour
- 1/4 cup of butter or bacon grease
- 2 cups of whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
1. Melt butter or bacon grease in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Add flour gradually and stir until the mixture turns brown and smells nutty. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
2. Gradually whisk in milk, making sure to whisk out any lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and let the gravy simmer for about 5 minutes or until it thickens to the desired consistency.
3. Add in salt and pepper to taste.
Note: For a creamier gravy, you can use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk. You can also add in other seasonings like garlic or onion powder for added flavor.
III. Video Tutorial
While written instructions can be helpful, watching a tutorial can be even more beneficial when learning how to make country gravy. Check out this video tutorial for reference:
IV. Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up a bit, here are a few variations that you can try:
- Add cooked sausage or bacon to the gravy.
- Use chicken or beef broth instead of milk for a richer taste.
- Add in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme.
- For a spicy kick, mix in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
To make a vegetarian version of country gravy, simply swap out the butter or bacon grease for vegetable oil or margarine, and use almond or soy milk instead of whole milk.
V. Shortcut Method
If you’re strapped for time, you can always use a pre-made gravy mix to whip up a batch of country gravy quickly. However, keep in mind that the flavor and consistency may not be the same as when made from scratch.
VI. Troubleshooting Guide
While making country gravy is relatively easy, there are a few common issues that can arise:
- Lumpy gravy: To avoid lumps, you need to whisk the flour and butter or bacon grease thoroughly before adding in the milk. If lumps still form, you can strain the gravy through a sieve or use an immersion blender to smooth it out.
- Thin gravy: If your gravy is too thin, you can add more flour or cornstarch to thicken it up. Mix equal amounts of flour or cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the gravy and whisk until it thickens.
- Overcooked gravy: If you cook the gravy for too long, it can become lumpy or taste burnt. Make sure to keep an eye on the gravy while it simmers, and remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches the desired consistency.
VII. Serving Suggestions
Country gravy is the perfect accompaniment to savory dishes like chicken-fried steak, biscuits and gravy, mashed potatoes, fried chicken, or even breakfast staples like scrambled eggs and bacon. Here are some creative serving suggestions:
- Serve the gravy with crispy fried chicken or chicken-fried steak.
- Top fluffy biscuits with gravy and serve alongside scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.
- Smother mashed potatoes with country gravy for a comforting side dish.
- Pour the gravy over roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or cauliflower for a unique twist.
VIII. Tips and Tricks
Here are some expert tips and tricks to help you make the perfect country gravy:
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Seasoning is crucial in country gravy. Taste the gravy regularly and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Use thickening agents judiciously: Flour or cornstarch can both be used to thicken the gravy, but it’s essential to add them in small amounts to avoid an overly thick gravy.
- Make it creamier: Half-and-half or heavy cream can be used for a richer, creamier gravy that goes well with sweeter dishes like cornbread or pancakes.
IX. Conclusion
Making country gravy from scratch is an easy and satisfying way to elevate your meals. By following our step-by-step guide, watching our video tutorial, and learning about the variations, troubleshooting, and serving suggestions, you can confidently make the perfect country gravy every time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to find your unique spin on this classic Southern dish.
