Corn Meal Gravy
Creamy cornmeal gravy with crispy fatback offers rich, savory flavors perfect for breakfast or comfort meals, especially served over toast for a hearty start.
Ingredients
- 3 pieces fatback
- 3 heaping Tbsp. cornmeal ⓘ
- 1 glass milk
Instructions
- Fry the fatback in a skillet until crispy, then remove and set aside.
- Add the cornmeal to the remaining fat in the skillet and cook until browned.
- Pour in the milk and stir until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the gravy thicken in the bowl.
- Serve the gravy hot over toast.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using bacon instead of fatback, or add sautéed onions and garlic for depth. If you prefer a thicker gravy, add more cornmeal gradually as it cooks. You can also substitute almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Serve with a sprinkle of black pepper for added spice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the corn meal gravy hot over toast for a classic breakfast. It pairs beautifully with eggs or alongside crispy fried potatoes. For a heartier meal, try it as a topping for biscuits or serve it with a side of sautéed greens. This dish is a comforting addition to any American recipes collection.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover corn meal gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much. Stir frequently to maintain a smooth consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corn Meal Gravy contains roughly 289 calories, with 2g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 641mg per serving (28% 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 a different type of fat instead of fatback?
Yes, you can substitute fatback with bacon, sausage, or even olive oil for a lighter option. Each type of fat will lend its own flavor to the gravy, so choose one that complements your meal.
Is cornmeal gravy suitable for vegetarians?
To make this gravy vegetarian-friendly, replace the fatback with a plant-based oil or butter. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavor without using any meat products.
How can I make this gravy spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating cayenne pepper or hot sauce while cooking the cornmeal. Alternatively, you can top the finished gravy with sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
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).