bacon grease gravy recipe

bacon grease gravy recipe

The Best bacon grease gravy recipe

I’ve always been a fan of traditional Southern cuisine, and one dish that never fails to impress is bacon grease gravy. It’s a staple in many households, particularly during holidays and special occasions. The rich, savory flavor of the gravy pairs perfectly with fluffy biscuits or crispy cornbread. As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to whip up a batch of this delicious gravy using just a few simple ingredients.

My kids love it when I serve it with their favorite comfort foods, like fried chicken or roasted vegetables. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal cooking time. Simply combine rendered bacon fat with flour, whisk until smooth, and cook until the mixture thickens into a velvety sauce.

That’s it! This recipe has been passed down through generations of home cooks in the South, and for good reason – it’s a crowd-pleaser every time. As I mentioned earlier, the key to making great bacon grease gravy is using high-quality ingredients. You’ll want to use rendered bacon fat that’s been saved from previous cooking sessions or purchased from a reputable butcher.

The fat should be clear and have a pleasant aroma. If you’re using store-bought bacon grease, be sure to check the label for any additives or preservatives that might affect the flavor. Another crucial element is whisking the mixture until it’s smooth and free of lumps. This ensures that the gravy will have a silky texture and won’t separate when served.

I like to use a combination of all-purpose flour and a small amount of butter or oil to help emulsify the mixture. If you’re new to making gravy, don’t worry if it doesn’t turn out perfectly at first – practice makes perfect! One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even use it as a topping for breakfast dishes like eggs benedict or breakfast burritos.

In terms of health benefits, bacon grease gravy may not be the most nutritious option, but it does contain some redeeming qualities. The rendered fat is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which can help reduce inflammation and support immune function. Of course, moderation is key when it comes to indulging in rich sauces like this one.

Bacon Grease Gravy

Bacon Grease Gravy

4.8 from 1497 votes

A rich and savory gravy made from rendered bacon fat. It is perfect for pouring over biscuits, mashed potatoes, or fried chicken.

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time15 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 180 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Gravy

3 tablespoons bacon grease
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk, warmed
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place a medium skillet over medium heat and add the bacon grease.
2Once the grease is shimmering, sprinkle the flour evenly over the surface and whisk constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden brown and smells nutty.
3Slowly pour in the warmed milk while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps.
4Continue to whisk and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the gravy thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
5Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the salt and black pepper.
6Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve immediately over warm biscuits or your preferred dish.

🔧Equipment

Medium skillet
Whisk
Measuring spoons
Liquid measuring cup

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 180 kcal🧈Total Fat: 13g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 360mg🌾Total Carbs: 11g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

For a thinner gravy, add an extra 1/4 cup of milk. For a thicker gravy, use an extra tablespoon of flour. If the gravy becomes too thick upon cooling, whisk in a splash of warm milk before serving.

Watch Video Of How Bacon Grease Gravy Works

As you can see, making bacon grease gravy from scratch is incredibly easy once you have some basic kitchen skills under your belt. And let me tell you – there’s nothing quite like serving up a warm plate of fluffy biscuits smothered in that golden brown goodness!

Not only does it taste amazing (if I do say so myself), but it also makes me feel connected to my family’s culinary traditions. If you’re looking for more ideas on how to incorporate this recipe into your meal planning routine, try pairing it with roasted meats like prime rib or pork tenderloin – they complement each other beautifully!

You could also experiment with different seasoning combinations like adding dried herbs or garlic powder to give your gravy an extra boost.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Grease Gravy

Q: What type of flour should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using all-purpose flour as it will yield the best results for your bacon grease gravy. However, you can also experiment with other types of flour like cake flour or pastry flour if you prefer a lighter texture.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While you can prepare the mixture ahead of time, I would not recommend refrigerating or freezing it for later use. Instead, make the gravy just before serving for optimal flavor.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe contains bacon grease as its primary ingredient and would not be suitable for vegetarians.

Q: Can I substitute vegetable oil for the bacon grease?

No, using vegetable oil will result in an entirely different flavor profile than what we’re aiming for in this recipe.

Q: How do I store leftover bacon grease?

It’s best to store leftover bacon grease in an airtight container in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below.

Q: Can I use this recipe as a base for other sauces?

This recipe serves as an excellent starting point for other savory sauces like ranch dressing or creamy dips.

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