How to Make Country Gravy

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Country gravy is a comforting and classic condiment that brings a touch of warmth to any meal. Whether it’s draped over freshly baked biscuits or paired with a crispy chicken-fried steak, this creamy delight is a staple in hearty country cooking. Traditionally made with butter, flour, and milk, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit vegan and gluten-free diets by using alternatives like oil, rice flour, and soy milk. With endless possibilities for personalization, making country gravy at home is an experience not to be missed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This country gravy recipe is all about flavor and tradition. You’ll love its rich and creamy texture, perfectly seasoned with sausage and bacon for a savory depth. It’s versatile and can be customized to your taste preferences, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Plus, it’s simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients that you likely already have on hand.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet or saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 8 ounces breakfast sausage links, casings removed and meat broken up
• 4 strips bacon, sliced crosswise
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions (light parts only)
• 1/3 cup packed all-purpose flour
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 1/2 cups cold milk
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onion (for garnish)
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the sausage and bacon to the skillet, stirring to break the sausage into small pieces. Cook until the sausage is browned and the bacon is almost crisp, about 10 minutes.
3. Mix in 1/2 cup of green onions and sauté until the onions are soft, about 3 minutes.
4. Gradually stir the flour into the meat mixture, 1 to 2 tablespoons at a time, until thoroughly combined and the mixture becomes pasty. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, to remove the raw taste of the flour.
5. Whisk in the milk, about 1 cup at a time, until fully combined. Continue whisking until the gravy begins to thicken, about 5 minutes.
6. Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the gravy to a simmer. Season with a pinch of cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
7. Simmer the gravy until the flavors have blended and the gravy is thick, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 15 minutes.
8. Garnish with 1 tablespoon of chopped green onion and a pinch of cayenne pepper before serving.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the butter is fully melted before adding the sausage and bacon for even cooking.
• Whisk the milk in gradually to avoid lumps in the gravy.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference as the gravy simmers.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and bacon and use vegetable broth instead of milk. You can also add mushrooms for extra flavor. Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect blend.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While exact values will depend on portion sizes, this gravy is rich in protein from the sausage and bacon, and offers a dose of calcium from the milk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the gravy in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it becomes too thick.

What can I serve with country gravy?
Country gravy pairs well with biscuits, fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

This country gravy is a simple yet delicious way to add comfort and flavor to your favorite dishes. Give it a try and experience the joy of homemade gravy. We’d love to hear how it turned out for you, so feel free to share your experiences and any variations you tried!

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