Country gravy is a beloved staple in Southern cuisine, known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. Often served over biscuits, chicken-fried steak, or fried chicken, this dish embodies the essence of comfort food. In this article, we’ll dive into the nuances of making the perfect country gravy, including two popular variations—white country gravy and sausage gravy. We’ll cover everything from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to nutritional facts and community reviews.

What is Country Gravy?

Country gravy is a thick sauce made primarily from flour, milk, and fat, often enhanced with meat drippings or sausage for added flavor. It is commonly served at breakfast but can complement various meals. The two most popular types are:

• White Country Gravy: A meat-free gravy typically made with butter and milk, seasoned with black pepper and garlic powder.
• Sausage Gravy: A meatier version that incorporates breakfast sausage and bacon for a richer taste.

Ingredients for Country Gravy

Basic Ingredients

Tips for Ingredients

• For White Gravy: Use butter as the fat base and omit meat.
• For Sausage Gravy: Substitute butter with bacon grease or sausage fat for added flavor.
• Milk Alternatives: You can use almond milk or soy milk for a dairy-free version, but the texture may vary.

Step-by-Step Instructions

How to Make White Country Gravy

1. Melt the Butter:
   • In a large nonstick skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add in ⅓ cup of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of freshly cracked black pepper, ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt, and ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder. Whisk continuously until the mixture forms a smooth paste.
3. Rest the Mixture:
   • Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the flour to absorb the flavors, ensuring a rich taste without the raw flour taste.
4. Add Milk:
   • Return the skillet to medium heat. Slowly pour in 2 ½ cups of cold milk while whisking constantly.
5. Thicken the Gravy:
   • Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency, about 5 minutes. If you prefer a thinner gravy, gradually add water until you reach the desired thickness.
6. Season to Taste:
   • Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately over biscuits or your favorite breakfast dishes.

How to Make Sausage Gravy

1. Cook the Meats:
   • In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 8 ounces of breakfast sausage and 4 strips of sliced bacon. Cook until the sausage is browned and the bacon is nearly crisp, about 10 minutes.
2. Add Green Onions:
   • Stir in ½ cup of chopped green onions and sauté for an additional 3 minutes until they soften.
3. Incorporate the Flour:
   • Gradually stir in ⅓ cup of all-purpose flour, 1 to 2 tablespoons at a time, mixing until thoroughly combined. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Whisk in Milk:
   • Slowly whisk in 2 ½ cups of cold milk, about 1 cup at a time. Continue whisking until the gravy begins to thicken, about 5 minutes.
5. Simmer:
   • Bring the gravy to a simmer over medium-high heat. Season with a pinch of cayenne pepper, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low and let the gravy simmer, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 10 to 15 minutes.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with additional green onions and cayenne pepper if desired. Serve hot over biscuits or as a side to your favorite breakfast items.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s a general overview of the nutrition facts for both white country gravy and sausage gravy:

Note on Nutritional Information

• These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Adjustments can be made for dietary preferences, such as using low-fat milk or reducing the amount of sausage.

Reviews from the Community

• Emily S.: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This is the best country gravy recipe I’ve tried! The resting time makes all the difference, and it turned out creamy and flavorful. My family devoured it over biscuits!”
• Mark T.: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I loved the sausage gravy version! It was rich and hearty, perfect for a Sunday brunch.”
• Laura K.: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “So easy to make! I used leftover bacon grease, and it added a delicious smoky flavor. Definitely a keeper in my recipe box!”

How to Submit Your Review

We’d love to hear your experience with this country gravy recipe! Share your thoughts in the comments below or tag us on Instagram with #CountryGravyDelight.

Tips and Praise for Perfecting Your Gravy

1. Experiment with Seasonings:
   • Adjust the amount of black pepper and cayenne to match your spice tolerance. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also add a delightful twist.
2. Adjust Thickness:
   • If your gravy is too thick, whisk in additional milk or cold water a little at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.
3. Store and Reheat:
   • Store any leftover gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk to loosen it up.
4. Make it Ahead:
   • Country gravy can be made in advance and reheated. Just be aware that it may thicken as it cools.
5. Pairing Ideas:
   • Country gravy pairs wonderfully with:
     • Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are a classic pairing.
     • Fried Chicken: Add a Southern touch to your meal.
     • Country-Fried Steak: A hearty dish that complements the rich gravy.
     • Mashed Potatoes: Pour over creamy mashed potatoes for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make country gravy without meat?

Yes! White country gravy is a delicious vegetarian option. Simply omit the sausage and bacon, and follow the white gravy recipe.

How can I make gravy gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Adjust the amount accordingly, as gluten-free flours may thicken differently.

What can I do with leftover gravy?

Leftover country gravy can be used as a sauce for biscuits, poured over baked potatoes, or as a dip for bread.

Can I freeze country gravy?

Yes, you can freeze country gravy. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, adding a bit of milk if needed.

Is country gravy the same as brown gravy?

No, country gravy (often white) is made with milk and has a creamy texture, while brown gravy is made with meat drippings and broth, resulting in a darker color and flavor.

Conclusion

Country gravy is a timeless dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. Whether you prefer the simplicity of white country gravy or the heartiness of sausage gravy, both versions are easy to prepare and incredibly versatile. With this detailed guide, you can create a delicious batch of country gravy that will impress your family and friends. So gather your ingredients and get cooking—comfort is just a few steps away!