Betty'S Tomato Gravy
Betty's Tomato Gravy offers a hearty, savory blend of fried meat grease, fresh tomatoes, and seasonings, perfect for comforting meals served with biscuits or bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover the bottom of your iron frying pan with fried meat grease.
- Sprinkle flour generously over the grease.
- Add water and let the gravy simmer for a minute.
- Add salt, black pepper, and canned or fresh ripe tomatoes.
- Stir well until combined and heated through.
- Serve hot with plenty of biscuits for sopping.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use the grease from fried bacon or sausage. If you prefer a thicker gravy, add more flour gradually until you reach the desired consistency. You can substitute the water with vegetable or chicken broth for added depth. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can enhance the taste. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat grease and use olive oil instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this tomato gravy hot over freshly baked biscuits for a comforting breakfast or brunch. It also pairs beautifully with fried chicken or as a sauce for mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, consider adding sautéed greens or a fresh salad on the side to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tomato gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain the consistency, and warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty'S Tomato Gravy contains roughly 8 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 486mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes work well in this recipe. Just ensure to drain them slightly if they're packed in juice. This will help maintain the right gravy consistency. Adjust the seasoning to taste, as canned tomatoes might be saltier than fresh ones.
How can I make this gravy spicier?
To add a kick to your tomato gravy, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when mixing in the tomatoes. You can also sauté some chopped jalapeños along with the flour for a more robust heat that complements the flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
While it's possible to freeze tomato gravy, the texture may change upon thawing. If you choose to freeze it, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stovetop, adding water as needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).