3 Easy Country Style Gravy Recipes for Chicken Fried Steak
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Hey there, gravy lovers! Are you tired of the same old store-bought stuff? Do you crave the magic of a homemade, creamy gravy that's the perfect complement to your crispy chicken fried steak? Well, buckle up, because we're about to get saucy!
Did you know that over 75% of Americans find comfort in a warm, home-cooked meal? Turns out, a lot of that comfort comes from a heaping spoonful of gravy. Let's be real, who doesn't love a good gravy boat?
So, if you’re ready to take your chicken fried steak game to the next level, keep scrolling! We've got 3 super easy country-style gravy recipes that even the most novice cook can master. You'll be a gravy pro in no time!
3 Easy Country Style Gravy Recipes for Chicken Fried Steak
Craving the comforting, creamy goodness of country style gravy to top your crispy chicken fried steak? You’ve come to the right place! Forget those boxed gravy mixes – we’re diving into the heart of the matter with three simple, delicious recipes that will have you pouring perfectly thick, flavorful country style gravy in no time.
Country style gravy is a staple in Southern and American cuisine, known for its rich flavor and velvety texture. It’s the perfect complement to fried meats like chicken fried steak, biscuits, mashed potatoes, and even eggs.
This article will explore the world of country style gravy, offering three easy-to-follow recipes perfect for any home cook. We’ll cover the essential ingredients, cooking tips, and variations to create your own signature country style gravy.
Let’s get started!
Understanding the Basics of Country Style Gravy
Before we jump into the recipes, let's take a closer look at what makes country style gravy so special.
Key Ingredients
The foundation of country style gravy lies in a few key ingredients:
- Fat: The drippings from pan-fried meats, like chicken fried steak, provide the base for a flavorful and rich gravy.
- Flour: Creates the thickener for the gravy, absorbing the fat and creating a smooth consistency.
- Milk or Cream: Adds creaminess and richness to the gravy, balancing the savory flavors.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and often a touch of garlic powder or onion powder enhance the depth of flavor.
Techniques for Perfect Gravy
- Start with a hot pan: This ensures the fat renders quickly and the flour browns properly, creating a deeper flavor.
- Whisk constantly: Prevent lumps from forming by stirring the flour and fat mixture vigorously as you cook.
- Gradually add liquid: Slowly pour in milk or cream while whisking continuously, allowing the gravy to thicken evenly.
- Simmer slowly: Reduce the heat to a low simmer for better thickening and allow the flavors to meld.
3 Simple Country Style Gravy Recipes
1. Classic Country Style Gravy
This recipe is the ultimate starting point for any country style gravy enthusiast. It's simple, versatile, and always satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons drippings from pan-fried chicken fried steak
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Whisk together: In a saucepan, whisk together the drippings and flour until smooth.
- Cook over medium heat: Stirring constantly, cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is slightly browned.
- Add milk/cream: Slowly whisk in the milk or cream, stirring continuously.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately over chicken fried steak or your favorite dish.
Pro Tip: Use less flour for a thinner gravy, or more flour for a thicker consistency.
2. Spicy Country Style Gravy
Add a kick to your country style gravy with a touch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons drippings from pan-fried chicken fried steak
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
Instructions:
- Follow steps 1-4 from the Classic Country Style Gravy recipe.
- Add spice: Stir in the cayenne pepper (or hot sauce) and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Pro Tip: Use a high-quality hot sauce like Tabasco or Sriracha for a more complex flavor.
3. Herb-infused Country Style Gravy
Elevate your country style gravy with a touch of aromatic herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons drippings from pan-fried chicken fried steak
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves (or 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary)
Instructions:
- Follow steps 1-4 from the Classic Country Style Gravy recipe.
- Add herbs: Stir in the thyme and rosemary, and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Pro Tip: Use freshly chopped herbs for the best flavor.
Tips and Techniques for Perfect Country Style Gravy
- Don't overcook the flour: Overcooked flour can result in a grainy texture.
- Stir constantly: Prevent lumps from forming by whisking continuously throughout the cooking process.
- Don't rush the thickening: Be patient and allow the gravy to simmer slowly until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Use quality milk or cream: For a richer flavor, use whole milk or heavy cream.
- Thicken as needed: If the gravy is too thin, add a little more flour, whisking well until it reaches the desired thickness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use butter instead of drippings?
While drippings are preferred for their rich flavor, you can use butter if you don't have any. However, butter will not provide the same depth of flavor as drippings.
2. What if my gravy is too thin?
If your gravy is too thin, you can whisk in a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired thickness. Be sure to cook the gravy for a few minutes longer to ensure the added flour is fully incorporated.
3. Can I make gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can make country style gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently over low heat before serving.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of country style gravy is a key to elevating your Southern-inspired meals. With these easy recipes and helpful tips, you'll be creating delicious, creamy, and flavorful gravy in no time. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, remember that the key is to start with quality ingredients, use the right techniques, and don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors!
Ready to whip up some delicious gravy? Grab your ingredients and follow these simple recipes to satisfy your cravings and impress your loved ones.
Have fun cooking!
Well, there you have it! Three delicious and easy country-style gravy recipes that will perfectly complement your chicken fried steak. Whether you prefer a classic white gravy, a smooth and creamy milk gravy, or a flavorful sausage gravy, these recipes are sure to please. Remember, gravy making is all about personal preference, so feel free to adjust the seasoning and ingredients to your liking. Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect gravy blend.
Now that you've got the gravy down, don't forget to serve your chicken fried steak with all the classic side dishes. Mashed potatoes, creamy coleslaw, and a side of green beans or corn are the perfect companions for a hearty meal. And don't be shy about adding a generous dollop of gravy over everything! A little extra gravy never hurt anyone.
So, grab your ingredients, put on your favorite cooking tunes, and get ready to whip up some mouthwatering gravy. You'll be amazed at how easy and rewarding it is to make your own gravy from scratch. And who knows, you might even become known as the "gravy master" in your own kitchen!