How to Make Perfect Breakfast Gravy: Tips and Recipes

Gravy is a crucial element that elevates breakfast to a delightful level, especially when it comes to dishes like pancakes, biscuits, or eggs. Whether you prefer the creamy white gravy or the hearty red sausage gravy, this article will guide you through the process of making the perfect breakfast gravy using various techniques and ingredients. Let's dive into the delicious world of gravy making!

Ingredients and Techniques

Gravy is made by combining flour or cornstarch with fat and liquid to create a thick sauce. Here are the basic ingredients and techniques you will need:

White Gravy

Ingredients:

Canola oil Butter All-purpose flour Milk or cream

Steps:

Melt the butter in a pan with a bit of canola oil. Add the flour slowly, stirring constantly until incorporated. Continue stirring until the flour loses its raw taste and starts to brown slightly. Gradually add milk or cream, stirring until the desired consistency is achieved.

Red Sausage Gravy

Ingredients:

Canola oil or pork lard Pork lard All-purpose flour V8 juice Smoked sausage pieces

Steps:

Melt the pork lard in a pan with a bit of canola oil. Add the flour slowly, stirring constantly until incorporated. Continue stirring until the flour loses its raw taste and starts to brown slightly. Add V8 juice and smoked sausage pieces, mixing well. Cook on low heat for 1 to 2 hours, adding more V8 juice as needed until the desired consistency is achieved.

Classic Techniques and Tips

The success of a gravy hinges on several key techniques and tips:

Start with Fat: Always start with fat, preferably bacon grease, to ensure a rich and flavorful gravy. If bacon grease is not available, use canola oil or pork lard as substitutes. Thickening: The thickening process is crucial. Simply add flour to a pan with a bit of fat and cook it until it turns brown. Whisk in a liquid such as milk or broth, and stir the mixture until it reaches the desired consistency. Consistency: The consistency of your gravy is important. It should be thick enough to coat a spoon but thin enough to pour. Using cold water with cornstarch can help achieve a smooth, thick texture if needed. Seasoning: Always taste your gravy before serving, as it often requires additional seasoning such as salt and pepper. Don't be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your personal taste. Customization: You can customize your gravy recipe to suit your preferences. For example, using sausage fat and milk to make a white gravy or adding V8 juice to a red gravy can make a unique and delicious variation.

Breakfast Gravy Recipes

Classic White Gravy

For a simple and satisfying white gravy:

In a pan, heat a bit of bacon grease or canola oil. Add flour and cook for a couple of minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Gradually add milk, stirring until the desired consistency is achieved. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Sausage Gravy

For a hearty breakfast gravy:

Cook 1 lb of sausage in a pan until it is completely browned. Add a quarter cup of all-purpose flour and stir well. Add 3 cups of milk and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Conclusion

Gravy is more than just a sauce; it is an art that requires practice and patience. With the right techniques and a bit of creativity, you can make the perfect breakfast gravy to enhance any breakfast dish. Whether you choose the smooth and creamy white gravy or the flavorful red sausage gravy, the key is to perfect the process and enjoy the delicious results!