How to Make Country Gravy: A Step-by-Step Guide with Recipes and Tips

Introduction

Country gravy is a staple in many households, a creamy, savory sauce that elevates any dish it’s added to. Whether it’s served with fluffy biscuits and fried chicken, poured over mashed potatoes, or used as a dip for crunchy vegetables, it’s a versatile flavor that brings warmth and home-style comfort. In this article, we’ll break down the process of making country gravy from scratch, provide recipes with unique variations and twists, offer tips and tricks for make-ahead options and healthy alternatives, and share ideas for perfect pairings to make your meals complete.

A Step-by-Step Guide

Country gravy is a savory sauce made by whisking butter or oil and flour together to create a roux, adding milk or cream and seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a basic country gravy recipe:

1. Melt 1/4 cup butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and whisk together to make a roux. Cook, whisking continuously for 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually add 2 cups of whole milk or heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Remove from heat and stir in any optional ingredients, such as cooked sausage or bacon bits, chopped herbs, or grated cheese.

When making country gravy, it’s important to follow these steps carefully and avoid common mistakes, such as burning the roux, adding too much milk and making the gravy too thin, or not seasoning enough and making it bland. To avoid these errors, use a heavy-bottomed skillet to prevent burning, measure the milk carefully, and taste the gravy as you go along to adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Recipes with a Twist

While classic country gravy is delicious on its own, there are many ways to add a unique twist to this beloved sauce. Here are some ideas to try:

• Substitute the all-purpose flour with cornmeal or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option.
• Add chopped herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or sage, for extra flavor.
• Add chopped cooked sausage, bacon bits, or sautéed mushrooms for additional texture.
• Adjust the thickness and texture of the gravy by adding more or less milk, cream, or broth.

When experimenting with different variations, it’s essential to keep the core of the recipe, that is, the roux and the milk. You can play around with the seasonings, spices, and optional ingredients, but the base ingredients should remain the same. Try pairing these variations with different dishes, such as a spicy sausage gravy with biscuits, mushroom gravy with roast beef, or herb-infused gravy with mashed potatoes.

Make-Ahead Gravy

If you’re planning a big family gathering or a holiday meal, making country gravy ahead of time can save you a lot of effort and time on the day of the event. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing and storing make-ahead gravy:

1. Follow your favorite country gravy recipe, adding any optional ingredients that you like.
2. Let the gravy cool at room temperature for 30 minutes.
3. Pour the gravy into an airtight container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
4. Label the container with the date and type of gravy.
5. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two days or in the freezer for up to one month.

When you’re ready to reheat and serve the frozen gravy, take it out of the freezer and transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. You can also use the microwave or stovetop to reheat it. If the gravy has separated or turned lumpy, whisk it vigorously to bring back its original texture. Make-ahead gravy can be a lifesaver for busy days or unexpected guests, allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavor of country gravy without the hassle of making it from scratch.

Healthy Gravy Options

While country gravy is undoubtedly delicious, it’s also high in fat and calories, which can be a concern for those watching their weight or on a restricted diet. Luckily, there are many ways to make a healthier version without sacrificing flavor. Here are some ingredients you can use:

• Low-fat milk or unsweetened non-dairy milk, such as almond, soy or oat, instead of heavy cream.
• Vegetable or chicken broth instead of butter or oil for the roux.
• Arrowroot or cornstarch instead of flour for a gluten-free option.
• Herbs and spices, such as garlic, onion, cumin, or paprika, to add flavor without adding extra calories.

When making a healthy country gravy, it’s important to adjust the measurements carefully, as using too much liquid can make the gravy thin and watery. Use a non-stick skillet or a cooking spray to prevent sticking, and avoid overcooking the gravy, as it can break down and lose its creamy texture. You can serve healthy gravy with a variety of dishes, such as roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or cauliflower rice.

Gravy Hacks

If you’re short on time or don’t feel like making gravy from scratch, there are many shortcuts and hacks you can use to achieve a similar flavor with minimal effort. Here are some ideas to try:

• Use pre-made biscuit dough, either store-bought or homemade, and bake it according to the instructions. Top the biscuits with ready-made country gravy or a gravy mix, such as Pioneer Brand or McCormick.
• Use pre-made chicken broth or stock and add a roux and milk to it to make a quick and easy gravy.
• Use canned or jarred sausage gravy and add spices or herbs to it to enhance the flavor.

Gravy hacks can save you time and make the cooking process more manageable, especially if you’re cooking for a large group or busy schedule. However, keep in mind that the homemade version of country gravy is always superior in terms of flavor and quality, and it’s worth the effort if you have the time and the inclination.

Perfect Pairings

One of the best things about country gravy is its versatility. It can be paired with a variety of dishes, either as a topping or a dipping sauce, and complement the flavors and textures of the meal. Here are some ideas for perfect pairings:

• Fried chicken or chicken-fried steak
• Biscuits or toast
• Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
• Sausage or bacon
• Green beans, corn, or carrots

To create the perfect pairing, consider the flavors and textures of both the dish and the gravy. For example, a spicy sausage gravy may pair well with a mildly flavored biscuit, while a creamy mushroom gravy may complement a tender steak. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find the ones that work best for you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, country gravy is one of the most delicious and versatile sauces in Southern cooking, and mastering the art of making it from scratch is a must for any home cook. With this step-by-step guide, recipes with a twist, make-ahead options, healthy alternatives, gravy hacks, and perfect pairings, you can enjoy the savory goodness of country gravy in your meals, no matter the occasion. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, there’s always something new to learn and discover in the world of country gravy.