Sausage gravy
Southern cuisine is known for its hearty comfort food, with one of the most beloved dishes being Sausage Gravy. This classic Southern recipe has been passed down through generations and is still a staple in many homes today. Sausage gravy is a creamy, savory gravy made with breakfast sausage, milk, and flour. It is typically served over biscuits, creating a filling and satisfying meal that is perfect for any time of day.
Sausage gravy has roots in Southern history, with many variations dating back to the late 1800s. It is thought to have originated in the Appalachian region, where it was a popular breakfast dish among farmers and laborers. Today, the dish can be found in diners and restaurants all across the South and has become a quintessential part of Southern cuisine.
The key ingredient in Southern Sausage Gravy is breakfast sausage, which is typically made with ground pork and a blend of spices like sage, thyme, and red pepper flakes. The sausage is browned in a pan, creating a flavorful base for the gravy. Flour is then added to the pan and cooked until it forms a golden brown roux. Milk is gradually added to the roux, creating a creamy gravy that is seasoned with black pepper, salt, and more of the sausage seasoning.
Traditionally, Southern Sausage Gravy is served over freshly baked biscuits. The biscuits can be made from scratch or purchased pre-made, but they should be tender and fluffy enough to soak up the creamy gravy. Some people also enjoy serving the gravy over toast, fried chicken, or even mashed potatoes.
While Southern Sausage Gravy is a simple and straightforward recipe, there are a few tips to ensure that it comes out perfectly. Firstly, use high-quality breakfast sausage that is well-seasoned and not too lean. The fat in the sausage will create a flavorful base for the gravy and give it a rich, creamy texture. Secondly, be sure to cook the sausage until it is browned and crumbled, which will help it distribute evenly throughout the gravy. And finally, be patient when making the roux – it may take several minutes to cook and turn golden brown, but this step is essential for thickening the gravy and creating a smooth texture.
In conclusion, Southern Sausage Gravy is a beloved dish that has a long history in Southern cuisine. It is a simple yet satisfying recipe that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time of day. With a few basic ingredients and some patience, anyone can whip up a batch of this delicious gravy and enjoy it with their favorite biscuits or other Southern dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of breakfast sausage
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Biscuits, for serving
Instructions:
- In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Cook until no longer pink, about 10 minutes.
- Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set it aside.
- Reduce to medium heat and sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour into the skillet. Stir it into the sausage grease until fully combined.
- Slowly pour 2 cups of whole milk into the skillet, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Continue stirring for 5-7 minutes or until the gravy begins to thicken.
- Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet and stir until the sausage is fully coated in gravy.
- Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the gravy over biscuits and enjoy!