There’s something inherently comforting about Southern cuisine, and homemade Southern White Gravy is no exception. Whether smothered over fluffy biscuits or served alongside crispy fried chicken, this creamy gravy is a staple in Southern kitchens. With just a handful of ingredients and a dash of Southern hospitality, you can elevate any meal with this indulgent treat. Let’s dive into the heart and soul of Southern cooking with this classic recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
Instructions:
- Melt Butter: In a skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it’s fully melted and begins to bubble slightly.
- Add Flour: Gradually sprinkle the all-purpose flour into the melted butter, whisking continuously to combine. Cook the flour and butter mixture, known as a roux, until it turns a light golden brown color, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Incorporate Milk: Slowly pour the whole milk into the skillet, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season to Taste: Season the gravy with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting the seasoning to suit your taste preferences. Keep in mind that the gravy will thicken slightly as it cools, so it’s better to start with less salt and pepper and add more if needed.
- Serve Warm: Once the gravy reaches your desired consistency and seasoning, remove it from the heat and serve it warm over biscuits, mashed potatoes, fried chicken, or any other dish of your choice.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Creamier Texture: For an even creamier texture, you can substitute part of the whole milk with heavy cream or half-and-half.
- Enhanced Flavor: Add depth of flavor to the gravy by incorporating a dash of Worcestershire sauce, a pinch of garlic powder, or a sprinkle of dried herbs such as thyme or sage.
- Onion Infusion: For a subtle onion flavor, sauté finely diced onions in the butter before adding the flour to the skillet.
- Custom Thickness: Adjust the thickness of the gravy by varying the ratio of flour to butter. For a thinner consistency, use less flour, and for a thicker gravy, use more flour.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour to reduce the carb content. You may need to adjust the amount of flour used, as alternative flours absorb moisture differently.
- Low-Carb Variation: Use a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum or glucomannan powder instead of flour. These thickeners require much less quantity compared to flour, so start with a small amount and gradually increase until the desired thickness is achieved.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? A: Yes, you can use salted butter, but be mindful of the additional salt content. Adjust the amount of added salt accordingly to prevent the gravy from becoming too salty.
Q: How can I prevent lumps from forming in the gravy? A: Whisk continuously while adding the flour and milk to ensure a smooth consistency. If lumps do form, you can strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve before serving to remove any unwanted lumps.
Q: Can I make this gravy ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the gravy ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. If the gravy thickens too much upon reheating, simply add a splash of milk to adjust the consistency.
In conclusion, Southern White Gravy embodies the essence of comfort and indulgence that defines Southern cuisine. With its velvety texture and rich flavor, it’s the perfect accompaniment to countless dishes, from breakfast classics to hearty dinners. Whether you’re craving a taste of the South or simply looking to elevate your meal with a touch of homemade goodness, this versatile gravy delivers on all fronts. So, roll up your sleeves, grab a whisk, and immerse yourself in the soul-soothing goodness of Southern cooking with this timeless recipe.
