What To Know
- This blog post will guide you through the process of crafting a delicious, flavorful sausage gravy using just a few simple ingredients.
- Flour is the key ingredient that transforms a simple sausage and milk mixture into a creamy, satisfying gravy.
- This is a simple mixture of flour and cold milk that will help prevent lumps from forming in the gravy.
The aroma of sausage gravy bubbling on the stove is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This classic Southern comfort food is a staple for breakfast, brunch, or even a hearty dinner. But how do you make sausage gravy from scratch? It’s surprisingly easy! This blog post will guide you through the process of crafting a delicious, flavorful sausage gravy using just a few simple ingredients.
The Magic of Flour in Sausage Gravy
Flour is the key ingredient that transforms a simple sausage and milk mixture into a creamy, satisfying gravy. It’s what gives sausage gravy its texture and body. But not all flours are created equal. For the best results, use all-purpose flour. It has the right balance of protein and starch to create a smooth, lump-free gravy.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you dive into the cooking process, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. You’ll need:
- Sausage: Choose your favorite type of sausage. Breakfast sausage is the most common choice, but you can also use Italian sausage or even chorizo for a different flavor profile.
- Flour: All-purpose flour is the best choice for sausage gravy.
- Milk: Whole milk or 2% milk will work best.
- Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and flavor to the gravy.
- Salt and Pepper: Season to taste.
Preparing the Sausage
The first step is to cook the sausage. Brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until it is cooked through and crumbly. Drain off any excess grease.
Creating the Flour Slurry
While the sausage is cooking, create a flour slurry. This is a simple mixture of flour and cold milk that will help prevent lumps from forming in the gravy. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of flour and 1/4 cup of cold milk until smooth.
Building the Gravy Base
Once the sausage is cooked, add the flour slurry to the skillet and whisk constantly. Gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups of milk, making sure to incorporate the flour slurry completely.
Simmering to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Continue to whisk constantly until the gravy thickens and reaches your desired consistency. This typically takes about 5-10 minutes.
Seasoning and Serving
Once the gravy is thickened, season it with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
Serve your homemade sausage gravy hot over biscuits, grits, mashed potatoes, or even rice. Enjoy!
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Sausage Gravy
- Don’t overcook the sausage: Overcooked sausage can become dry and tough. Cook it just until it’s browned and cooked through.
- Use cold milk: Cold milk helps prevent lumps from forming in the gravy.
- Whisk constantly: This is crucial for preventing lumps and ensuring a smooth, creamy gravy.
- Don’t rush the simmering process: Give the gravy time to thicken properly. It will become thicker as it cools.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Start with a small amount of salt and pepper and add more as needed.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Try different types of sausage or add other ingredients like onions, peppers, or herbs to customize your gravy.
A Final Word: Embrace the Simplicity
Making sausage gravy with flour is a simple yet rewarding process. It’s a recipe that allows you to create a delicious and comforting meal from scratch. Don’t be intimidated by the process. Just follow the steps, embrace the simplicity, and enjoy the satisfying results.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I use other types of flour for sausage gravy?
A: While all-purpose flour works best, you can experiment with other types of flour, such as whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour. However, keep in mind that using different flours may affect the texture and consistency of the gravy.
Q: How long can I keep leftover sausage gravy?
A: Store leftover sausage gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: Can I make sausage gravy ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make sausage gravy ahead of time. Simply cool it completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.
Q: What are some other ways to serve sausage gravy?
A: Sausage gravy is incredibly versatile. You can serve it over biscuits, grits, mashed potatoes, rice, or even waffles. You can also use it as a topping for eggs, omelets, or breakfast burritos.
Q: Can I freeze sausage gravy?
A: Yes, you can freeze sausage gravy. Simply cool it completely and store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it gently on the stovetop.
