Gravy is a versatile condiment that can elevate the flavor of various dishes, from comforting breakfast meals to hearty dinner options. Whether you’re a fan of classic brown gravy or prefer a lighter, creamier alternative, there’s a wide range of foods that pair perfectly with this savory sauce. In this article, we’ll explore the best foods to serve with gravy, including traditional combinations and some unexpected pairings.
Breakfast Favorites with Gravy
Gravy is a staple in many breakfast dishes, particularly in traditional American and British cuisine. Here are some popular breakfast foods that go well with gravy:
Pancakes and Waffles
While pancakes and waffles are often topped with sweet ingredients like syrup, honey, or fresh fruits, they can also be paired with savory gravy for a unique twist. Try serving your pancakes or waffles with a side of sausage or bacon gravy for a filling breakfast.
Biscuits and Gravy
Biscuits and gravy is a classic Southern breakfast dish that consists of flaky biscuits served with a rich, meaty gravy. This comforting combination is often made with sausage or bacon drippings and is a staple in many American households.
Country Fried Steak
Country fried steak is a popular breakfast dish that consists of a breaded and fried steak served with a side of gravy. This hearty combination is often served with eggs, toast, or hash browns for a filling breakfast.
Meat and Gravy Combinations
Gravy is a natural pairing for many types of meat, particularly roasted or fried options. Here are some popular meat and gravy combinations:
Roast Beef with Gravy
Roast beef is a classic dish that’s often served with a side of gravy. The rich, meaty flavor of the roast beef pairs perfectly with a savory gravy made from the beef’s drippings.
Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
Mashed potatoes are a comforting side dish that can be elevated with a drizzle of gravy. Try serving your mashed potatoes with a side of roasted meat, such as beef or pork, and a rich, savory gravy.
Fried Chicken with Gravy
Fried chicken is a popular dish that’s often served with a side of gravy. The crispy exterior and juicy interior of the fried chicken pair perfectly with a creamy, savory gravy.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options with Gravy
While gravy is often associated with meat, there are many vegetarian and vegan options that can be paired with this savory sauce. Here are some popular options:
Mushroom Gravy over Vegetables
Mushroom gravy is a popular vegetarian option that can be served over a variety of vegetables, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or sautéed greens.
Lentil or Vegetable Stew with Gravy
Lentil or vegetable stew is a hearty, comforting dish that can be elevated with a side of gravy. Try serving your stew with a side of crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a filling meal.
Tofu or Tempeh with Gravy
Tofu or tempeh can be marinated and cooked in a variety of ways, including with a side of gravy. Try serving your tofu or tempeh with a side of roasted vegetables or over mashed potatoes for a filling, vegan meal.
International Gravy Options
Gravy is a versatile condiment that’s used in many international cuisines. Here are some popular international gravy options:
Japanese Teriyaki Gravy
Teriyaki gravy is a popular Japanese condiment made from soy sauce, sake, and sugar. This sweet, savory gravy is often served over grilled meats, such as chicken or beef, and steamed vegetables.
Indian Korma Gravy
Korma gravy is a popular Indian condiment made from yogurt, nuts, and spices. This creamy, savory gravy is often served over grilled meats, such as chicken or lamb, and steamed basmati rice.
Chinese Oyster Sauce Gravy
Oyster sauce gravy is a popular Chinese condiment made from oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar. This savory, umami-rich gravy is often served over stir-fried noodles or vegetables and grilled meats.
Homemade Gravy Recipes
Making homemade gravy is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients. Here are some popular homemade gravy recipes:
Brown Gravy Recipe
Brown gravy is a classic recipe made from beef or pork drippings, flour, and broth. This rich, savory gravy is often served over roasted meats, such as beef or pork, and mashed potatoes.
Country Gravy Recipe
Country gravy is a popular recipe made from sausage or bacon drippings, flour, and milk. This creamy, savory gravy is often served over biscuits, eggs, and country fried steak.
Mushroom Gravy Recipe
Mushroom gravy is a popular vegetarian recipe made from sautéed mushrooms, flour, and broth. This earthy, savory gravy is often served over roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or sautéed greens.
Conclusion
Gravy is a versatile condiment that can elevate the flavor of various dishes, from comforting breakfast meals to hearty dinner options. Whether you’re a fan of classic brown gravy or prefer a lighter, creamier alternative, there’s a wide range of foods that pair perfectly with this savory sauce. By exploring different gravy options and recipes, you can add depth and flavor to your meals and create delicious, memorable dishes.
What types of foods pair well with gravy?
Foods that pair well with gravy are often those that are savory, comforting, and rich in texture. Some classic examples include roasted meats like beef, pork, and lamb, as well as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and vegetables like carrots and peas. Gravy can also complement breakfast foods like biscuits, eggs, and sausage. The key is to find foods that have a robust flavor profile that can stand up to the bold, savory taste of the gravy.
In addition to these classic pairings, gravy can also be used to elevate more unexpected foods like pasta, meatballs, and even vegetables like Brussels sprouts. The key is to experiment with different types of gravy and find the perfect match for your favorite foods. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and new, there’s a food out there that pairs perfectly with gravy.
What are some popular types of gravy?
There are many different types of gravy, each with its own unique flavor profile and texture. Some popular types of gravy include brown gravy, made with pan drippings and flour; country gravy, made with sausage or bacon drippings and milk; and giblet gravy, made with the giblets and neck of a roasted turkey. Other types of gravy include mushroom gravy, made with sautéed mushrooms and herbs; and red-eye gravy, made with coffee and pan drippings.
Each type of gravy has its own unique characteristics and uses. For example, brown gravy is a classic pairing for roasted meats, while country gravy is often served over biscuits and sausage. Giblet gravy is a staple of holiday meals, while mushroom gravy is a great option for vegetarians and vegans. By experimenting with different types of gravy, you can find the perfect match for your favorite foods and add a new level of flavor and excitement to your meals.
How do I make homemade gravy from scratch?
Making homemade gravy from scratch is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills. To start, you’ll need some type of fat or oil, such as pan drippings or butter, as well as some type of liquid, such as broth or milk. You’ll also need some type of thickening agent, such as flour or cornstarch. Simply melt the fat in a pan, whisk in the flour to make a roux, and then gradually add the liquid, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Once the gravy has thickened to your liking, you can season it with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like. Some other tips for making homemade gravy include using high-quality ingredients, such as homemade broth or fresh herbs, and deglazing the pan with a little bit of liquid to release all the flavorful browned bits. With a little bit of practice, you can make delicious homemade gravy that’s perfect for topping your favorite foods.
Can I make gravy ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it?
Yes, you can make gravy ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. In fact, making gravy ahead of time can be a great way to save time and reduce stress during the holidays or other busy periods. To refrigerate gravy, simply let it cool to room temperature and then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to a week.
To freeze gravy, let it cool to room temperature and then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen gravy will keep for up to three months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw the gravy overnight in the fridge or reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Keep in mind that frozen gravy may separate or lose some of its flavor, so you may need to whisk it or add a little bit of liquid to restore its texture and flavor.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making gravy?
One common mistake to avoid when making gravy is using low-quality ingredients, such as store-bought broth or stale spices. This can result in a gravy that tastes bland or unappetizing. Another mistake is not deglazing the pan properly, which can leave behind all the flavorful browned bits that give gravy its rich, savory flavor.
Other common mistakes include not whisking the gravy constantly, which can result in lumps, and not seasoning the gravy properly, which can result in a gravy that tastes bland or unbalanced. Finally, be careful not to over-thicken the gravy, as this can make it taste starchy or unpleasantly thick. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can make delicious homemade gravy that’s perfect for topping your favorite foods.
Can I make gravy without meat drippings or broth?
Yes, you can make gravy without meat drippings or broth. One option is to use vegetable broth or stock, which can be made by simmering vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions in water. You can also use mushroom broth or other types of broth to give your gravy a rich, savory flavor.
Another option is to use a roux-based gravy, which is made by whisking flour and fat together to create a smooth, creamy paste. This type of gravy is often used in vegetarian and vegan cooking, as it doesn’t require any animal products. By experimenting with different types of broth and gravy-making techniques, you can create delicious homemade gravy that’s perfect for topping your favorite foods, even if you don’t have meat drippings or broth on hand.
How do I serve and store leftover gravy?
Serving and storing leftover gravy is easy. To serve, simply reheat the gravy on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s warm and bubbly. You can serve it over your favorite foods, such as roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or stuffing.
To store leftover gravy, let it cool to room temperature and then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw the gravy overnight in the fridge or reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. You can also use leftover gravy as a base for soups or stews, or as a sauce for pasta or meatballs. By storing leftover gravy properly, you can enjoy it for days to come and reduce food waste in the process.