Fried Fatback And Milk Gravy
Fried fatback with creamy milk gravy offers a rich, savory flavor, perfect for hearty breakfasts or comforting family meals with biscuits and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the sliced fatback in a black iron skillet until golden brown and all fat is rendered out of the meat.
- Pour off the excess grease from the skillet.
- Brown about 3 tablespoons of flour in the remaining fat.
- Gradually add 2 cups of milk and water to the skillet, stirring constantly.
- Cook and stir until the gravy thickens to the desired consistency.
- Serve hot with homemade biscuits, fried corn, and sliced tomatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use well-cured fatback and ensure it's sliced thinly for even cooking. If you prefer a healthier option, try substituting turkey bacon for the fatback. For a richer gravy, you can add a splash of chicken broth or a pinch of garlic powder while thickening. Remember to stir constantly to avoid lumps when adding the milk and water.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fried fatback and milk gravy hot over homemade biscuits for a classic Southern breakfast. It also pairs beautifully with fried corn and sliced tomatoes for a hearty meal. Consider adding a side of collard greens or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the gravy to separate.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Fatback And Milk Gravy contains roughly 289 calories, with 5g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein.
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 meat instead of fatback?
Yes, you can substitute fatback with bacon or pancetta for a similar flavor. However, keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the fat content of the meat you choose.
What if my gravy is too thick?
If your gravy turns out too thick, simply whisk in a little more milk or water until you reach your desired consistency. Heat it gently while stirring to incorporate the liquid without clumping.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, use vegetable oil or butter instead of fatback and add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. You can still follow the same steps to create a delicious milk gravy.
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).