Hey there, chicken fried steak lovers! You know what's better than a crispy, juicy chicken fried steak? A **delicious, creamy gravy** to smother it in!
But who wants to mess around with greasy drippings? Not us! That's why we've got **three easy gravy recipes that don't require any drippings**.
Ready to ditch the pan and embrace simpler gravy making? Keep reading to the end for **foolproof recipes that'll have you saying "gimme more"** in no time!
3 Easy Chicken Fried Steak Gravy Recipes (No Drippings Needed)
Chicken fried steak is a classic comfort food that's always a crowd-pleaser. But what truly elevates this dish is a rich, flavorful gravy. While traditional gravy recipes rely on pan drippings, we're going to show you how to make delicious chicken fried steak gravy without them, making the process easier and more versatile.
Why Make Chicken Fried Steak Gravy Without Drippings?
Using pan drippings for gravy has its drawbacks. It can be challenging to get the right fat-to-flour ratio for a smooth gravy, and it's not ideal for those who prefer a lighter gravy or are watching their fat intake. Making gravy without drippings allows for more control over the ingredients and consistency, and lets you customize the flavor profile to your liking.
3 Easy Chicken Fried Steak Gravy Recipes
Here are three simple and delicious chicken fried steak gravy recipes, each with its own unique twist:
1. Classic White Gravy
This recipe is a simple and straightforward take on the classic white gravy, perfect for those who appreciate a traditional flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Melt the butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Whisk in flour: Add the flour and whisk continuously until smooth.
- Add milk and seasonings: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook until thickened: Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly. Continue cooking until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Season and adjust consistency: Stir in the salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Adjust the seasoning to your taste. If the gravy is too thick, add a little more milk; if it's too thin, simmer for an additional minute or two.
2. Creamy Herb Gravy
This gravy adds a touch of freshness and complexity with the addition of herbs.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
Instructions:
- Melt butter and whisk in flour: Follow steps 1 and 2 from the Classic White Gravy recipe.
- Add milk, herbs, and seasonings: Gradually whisk in the milk, then add the parsley and thyme. Stir in the salt and pepper.
- Cook until thickened: Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly. Continue cooking until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Adjust consistency and serve: If the gravy is too thick, add a little more milk. Serve immediately over your chicken fried steak.
3. Cheesy Peppercorn Gravy
This recipe brings a savory depth of flavor with the addition of cheese and peppercorns.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns, slightly crushed
Instructions:
- Melt butter and whisk in flour: Follow steps 1 and 2 from the Classic White Gravy recipe.
- Add milk, seasonings, and peppercorns: Gradually whisk in the milk, then add the salt, pepper, and peppercorns.
- Cook until thickened: Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly. Continue cooking until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in cheese: Reduce heat to low, and stir in the cheese until melted and the gravy is smooth.
- Adjust consistency and serve: If the gravy is too thick, add a little more milk. Serve immediately over your chicken fried steak.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Fried Steak Gravy
Here are some tips to ensure your gravy is perfect every time:
- Use good quality milk: Whole milk will produce a richer, creamier gravy.
- Don't overcook the flour: Cooking the flour too long will make the gravy taste bitter.
- Whisk constantly: This prevents lumps from forming.
- Use a whisk with a long handle: It allows you to reach the bottom of the saucepan and ensure the gravy is cooking evenly.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: You can customize the gravy with additional herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
- Serve immediately: The gravy will thicken as it cools, so serve it hot over your chicken fried steak for the best results.
Chicken Fried Steak Gravy Variations
There are many ways to customize your chicken fried steak gravy:
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce: This adds a savory, umami flavor to the gravy.
- Use a different type of cheese: Try Colby jack, Monterey jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard: This adds a tangy kick to the gravy.
- Include a tablespoon of brown sugar: This adds a hint of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
FAQs
Q: Can I use leftover chicken fried steak drippings to make gravy?
A: Yes, you can use leftover drippings, but it's important to remove any excess fat before using them. Strain the drippings through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solid bits.
Q: Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
A: It's best to make the gravy fresh, but you can make it a few hours ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.
Q: Can I freeze the gravy?
A: Yes, chicken fried steak gravy can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion
Making delicious chicken fried steak gravy without drippings is easier than you think. By using these simple recipes and tips, you can create a flavorful and satisfying sauce that elevates your chicken fried steak to a new level. Remember, the key is to use quality ingredients, whisk constantly, and adjust the seasoning to your taste. So next time you're craving comfort food, try these easy gravy recipes and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!
Call to Action: Try these easy chicken fried steak gravy recipes and let us know which one is your favorite in the comments below!
So there you have it, three easy chicken fried steak gravy recipes that require no drippings, perfect for those times when you're craving that classic comfort food but don't want to fuss with the traditional method. You can choose between creamy milk gravy, savory brown gravy, or a flavorful mushroom gravy, each providing a unique taste and texture to complement your crispy chicken fried steak. Remember, feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking and add your favorite herbs or spices for a personalized touch. And don't forget the mashed potatoes, green beans, and cornbread on the side for the ultimate Southern meal!
Now that you've got these recipes in your arsenal, you can confidently whip up delicious gravy anytime, without needing to rely on those precious pan drippings. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, these simple steps will guide you towards gravy perfection. Impress your family and friends with your culinary skills and create a memorable meal that will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).
And if you're looking for more inspiration, you can explore other gravy variations online, experiment with different flavor combinations, or try your hand at making a gravy from scratch using pan drippings. The possibilities are endless when it comes to gravy, so get creative and enjoy the process! Don't forget to share your gravy creations and let us know which recipe you loved the most. Until next time, happy cooking!
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