Southern Style gravy, a staple of traditional Southern cuisine, is a rich and savory condiment that has been a cornerstone of American comfort food for generations. This delectable gravy is a masterful blend of pan drippings, flour, and milk, carefully crafted to create a smooth, velvety texture and a deep, satisfying flavor. In this article, we’ll delve into the history and cultural significance of Southern Style gravy, explore its various types and ingredients, and provide tips on how to make the perfect gravy to accompany your favorite Southern dishes.
A Brief History of Southern Style Gravy
Southern Style gravy has its roots in traditional Southern cuisine, which was heavily influenced by European, African, and Native American cooking techniques. The concept of gravy as a condiment dates back to medieval Europe, where it was used to enhance the flavor of roasted meats. As European settlers arrived in the Southern United States, they brought their culinary traditions with them, adapting to the local ingredients and cooking methods.
In the antebellum South, gravy was a staple of plantation cuisine, where it was served alongside roasted meats, stews, and biscuits. The gravy was typically made with pan drippings from roasted meats, flour, and milk or cream, which were abundant on Southern farms. The resulting gravy was a rich, creamy sauce that added depth and flavor to even the humblest of dishes.
The Cultural Significance of Southern Style Gravy
Southern Style gravy is more than just a condiment – it’s a cultural icon that evokes memories of family gatherings, holiday meals, and warm hospitality. In the South, gravy is often served at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, accompanying everything from biscuits and grits to fried chicken and mashed potatoes.
Gravy is also a symbol of Southern hospitality, where it’s often served as a sign of welcome and generosity. In traditional Southern cuisine, gravy is a way to stretch a meal, making it more filling and satisfying. This practical aspect of gravy has made it a staple of Southern cooking, particularly during times of economic hardship.
Types of Southern Style Gravy
While traditional Southern Style gravy is made with pan drippings, flour, and milk, there are several variations that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Some common types of Southern Style gravy include:
Sausage Gravy
Sausage gravy is a popular variation of Southern Style gravy, made with pan drippings from cooked sausage, flour, and milk. This hearty gravy is often served alongside biscuits, grits, or eggs, and is a staple of Southern breakfast cuisine.
Mushroom Gravy
Mushroom gravy is a savory variation of Southern Style gravy, made with sautéed mushrooms, flour, and milk. This earthy gravy is often served alongside roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or stuffing.
Country Gravy
Country gravy is a simple variation of Southern Style gravy, made with pan drippings from cooked meat, flour, and milk. This comforting gravy is often served alongside biscuits, mashed potatoes, or fried chicken.
Ingredients and Equipment
To make traditional Southern Style gravy, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:
- Pan drippings from roasted meats (such as beef, pork, or chicken)
- All-purpose flour
- Milk or cream
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: sausage, mushrooms, or other ingredients to create variations
In terms of equipment, you’ll need:
- A large skillet or saucepan
- A whisk or spoon for mixing
- A measuring cup for accurate measurements
- A gravy separator or fat separator (optional)
Tips for Making the Perfect Gravy
Making the perfect Southern Style gravy requires attention to detail and a bit of practice. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh pan drippings, real butter, and whole milk will make a big difference in the flavor and texture of your gravy.
- Whisk constantly: Whisking constantly will help prevent lumps from forming and ensure a smooth, velvety texture.
- Use the right ratio of flour to liquid: A general rule of thumb is to use 1 tablespoon of flour for every 2 cups of liquid.
- Don’t overcook the gravy: Gravy should be cooked until it’s smooth and creamy, but not too thick or sticky.
Recipe: Traditional Southern Style Gravy
Here’s a simple recipe for traditional Southern Style gravy:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons pan drippings from roasted meats
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the pan drippings over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture forms a smooth paste.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the gravy thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot over biscuits, grits, or your favorite Southern dishes.
Conclusion
Southern Style gravy is a beloved condiment that has been a cornerstone of traditional Southern cuisine for generations. With its rich, savory flavor and smooth, velvety texture, it’s no wonder why gravy remains a staple of Southern cooking. Whether you’re a native Southerner or just a fan of Southern cuisine, making your own Southern Style gravy is a great way to add a touch of tradition and hospitality to your meals.
What is Southern Style Gravy?
Southern Style Gravy is a traditional condiment originating from the Southern United States. It is typically made from pan drippings, flour, and milk or cream, resulting in a rich, savory, and slightly thickened sauce. This gravy is often served over breakfast dishes, such as biscuits, eggs, and sausage, but it can also be paired with other meals like mashed potatoes, fried chicken, or roast beef.
The unique flavor profile of Southern Style Gravy comes from the combination of the pan drippings, which are usually obtained from cooking meats like bacon, sausage, or ham, and the roux made from flour and fat. The slow-cooked roux gives the gravy a deep, nutty flavor that complements the smoky taste of the pan drippings. This distinctive flavor has made Southern Style Gravy a staple in many Southern households and a favorite among those who enjoy traditional comfort food.
What are the key ingredients in Southern Style Gravy?
The key ingredients in Southern Style Gravy include pan drippings, all-purpose flour, milk or cream, and seasonings like salt, black pepper, and sometimes a pinch of cayenne pepper. The pan drippings are usually obtained from cooking meats like bacon, sausage, or ham, and they provide the rich, savory flavor that is characteristic of Southern Style Gravy. The flour is used to make a roux, which thickens the gravy and gives it a smooth texture.
In addition to these main ingredients, some recipes may include other components like butter or oil to enrich the flavor of the gravy. Some people also add a splash of broth or stock to thin out the gravy if it becomes too thick. However, the basic ingredients of pan drippings, flour, and milk or cream remain the foundation of traditional Southern Style Gravy.
How do I make Southern Style Gravy from scratch?
To make Southern Style Gravy from scratch, start by cooking a few slices of bacon or a sausage patty in a skillet over medium heat. Once the meat is browned and crispy, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the pan drippings in the skillet and add a tablespoon or two of all-purpose flour to make a roux. Whisk the flour into the pan drippings and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly, until the roux is lightly browned and has a nutty aroma.
Next, gradually pour in some milk or cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for a few minutes until it thickens to your liking. Season the gravy with salt, black pepper, and any other desired spices. If the gravy becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a little more milk or cream. Serve the Southern Style Gravy hot over your favorite breakfast dishes or other comfort foods.
Can I make Southern Style Gravy ahead of time?
While it’s possible to make Southern Style Gravy ahead of time, it’s best served fresh. The gravy can be made a few hours in advance and refrigerated until serving time. However, it’s essential to reheat the gravy gently over low heat, whisking constantly, to prevent it from breaking or becoming too thick.
If you need to make the gravy ahead of time, consider making the roux and cooking the pan drippings in advance, then refrigerating or freezing them until you’re ready to finish the gravy. This way, you can quickly whisk together the gravy just before serving, ensuring that it’s hot and fresh.
How do I store leftover Southern Style Gravy?
Leftover Southern Style Gravy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. To refrigerate the gravy, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. To freeze the gravy, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer.
When you’re ready to serve the leftover gravy, simply reheat it gently over low heat, whisking constantly, until it’s hot and smooth. If the gravy has thickened too much during storage, you can thin it out with a little more milk or cream.
Can I use Southern Style Gravy as a base for other sauces?
Yes, Southern Style Gravy can be used as a base for other sauces. Its rich, savory flavor makes it an excellent starting point for a variety of sauces and gravies. For example, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce and some dried herbs to create a savory gravy to serve over roast beef or mashed potatoes.
You can also use Southern Style Gravy as a base for sausage gravy by adding some cooked sausage and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Alternatively, you can add some chicken or beef broth to create a lighter, more brothy gravy to serve over eggs or breakfast dishes. The possibilities are endless, and the versatility of Southern Style Gravy makes it a great addition to many different recipes.
Is Southern Style Gravy a healthy condiment option?
Southern Style Gravy is typically high in calories, fat, and sodium due to the pan drippings and roux made from flour and fat. However, it can be made healthier by using leaner meats, reducing the amount of fat used in the roux, and adding more milk or cream to thin out the gravy.
To make a healthier version of Southern Style Gravy, consider using turkey bacon or sausage instead of traditional pork products. You can also use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to increase the fiber content of the gravy. Additionally, be mindful of the amount of salt and pepper you add to the gravy, as these can contribute to the overall sodium content.