19 Southern Style White Gravy Recipe Delight In These Amazing Recipes!

The Importance of a Good Roux

Creating the Base for Flavor

One of the key components of southern style white gravy is the roux. A roux is a mixture of equal parts fat and flour that is cooked together to create a thickening agent for sauces and gravies. In this case, the fat used is typically butter or bacon grease, which adds a rich and savory flavor to the gravy. The flour helps to thicken the gravy and create a smooth texture. It's important to cook the roux until it reaches a golden brown color, as this will give the gravy a nutty and slightly caramelized taste.

Mastering the Technique

Creating a good roux requires patience and attention to detail. It's important to use a heavy-bottomed pan and to constantly stir the mixture to prevent burning. The key is to cook the roux over medium heat, slowly adding in the flour and stirring until it reaches the desired color. This may take anywhere from 5-10 minutes, but the end result is well worth the effort. Pro Tip: For a gluten-free option, you can use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the gravy. Simply mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water together and slowly add it into the gravy, stirring constantly until it reaches the desired thickness.

Adding Flavor with Milk or Broth

Choosing the Right Liquid

Once your roux is cooked to perfection, it's time to add the liquid to create the gravy. In traditional southern style white gravy, whole milk is used. This adds a creamy and rich texture to the gravy, as well as a subtle sweetness. However, you can also use chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter and more savory flavor.

Perfecting the Consistency

As you add the liquid to the roux, it's important to continue stirring to prevent lumps from forming. The gravy will thicken as it cooks, so it's best to add the liquid gradually until you reach the desired consistency. If your gravy becomes too thick, you can always add a little more milk or broth to thin it out. Pro Tip: For a little extra flavor, you can also add in some chopped herbs or spices such as thyme, rosemary, or black pepper to the gravy.

Serving and Storing Southern Style White Gravy

Serving Suggestions

Now that your gravy is ready, it's time to enjoy it! Southern style white gravy is traditionally served over freshly baked biscuits, but it also pairs well with fried chicken, mashed potatoes, or even as a topping for meatloaf. The options are endless and the results are always delicious.

Storing for Later

If you have any leftover gravy, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in a saucepan over low heat and stir until warmed through. You may need to add a little more milk or broth to thin it out as it may thicken in the fridge. In conclusion, mastering the art of making a good southern style white gravy is all about patience and practice. With these tips and techniques, you'll be whipping up delicious and flavorful gravy in no time. So go ahead and give it a try, and impress your friends and family with your newfound culinary skills.