Buttermilk Gravy
Buttermilk gravy offers a creamy, tangy flavor with smoky bacon notes, perfect for breakfast biscuits or hearty dinners, appealing to comfort food lovers and brunch enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt bacon grease in a skillet.
- Add meal and brown it.
- Add salt and black pepper; cook a little longer.
- Pour in buttermilk and water; stir until the gravy thickens.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using rendered chicken fat or butter as a substitute for bacon grease. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use olive oil. Make sure to whisk the ingredients well while cooking to avoid lumps. If the gravy is too thick, add more buttermilk or water until you reach your desired consistency. This gravy pairs beautifully with American recipes like biscuits or fried chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve buttermilk gravy over freshly baked biscuits for a classic breakfast. It also complements fried chicken, country-style potatoes, or even drizzled over a warm bowl of Pot O' Beans. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with sautéed greens or scrambled eggs for a hearty brunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover buttermilk gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain a smooth consistency. If it thickens too much during storage, you can add a splash of buttermilk or water while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buttermilk Gravy contains roughly 56 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1773mg per serving (77% 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 make buttermilk gravy without bacon grease?
Yes, you can replace bacon grease with other fats like butter or vegetable oil. While these alternatives will change the flavor slightly, they will still yield a delicious gravy. Just remember to adjust the seasoning as needed since bacon grease adds a unique smoky flavor.
How do I thicken buttermilk gravy?
If your gravy isn't thickening as desired, you can let it simmer longer to evaporate excess liquid. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the gravy and cook until thickened. This method works well without altering the flavor significantly.
Can I freeze buttermilk gravy?
Freezing buttermilk gravy is not recommended as it may separate when thawed. However, if you must freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of buttermilk or water to restore its texture.
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).