Salt Pork And Gravy
Salt pork and gravy offers a rich, savory flavor with a creamy gravy, perfect for hearty breakfasts or comfort meals, appealing to those who enjoy traditional Southern cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry several pieces of country ham in a heavy skillet, then remove the ham and pour off the fat.
- Return the skillet to heat.
- Add 1/4 to 1/2 cup water or strong coffee to the skillet and stir to loosen the flavorful bits.
- Cook until all extract from the pan is dissolved and incorporated into the liquid.
- Meanwhile, heat 1 pint of milk and stir in 2 tablespoons of flour to make a smooth gravy.
- Gradually add the gravy to the skillet, stirring constantly to thicken, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using strong coffee instead of water when deglazing the skillet. If you prefer a lighter gravy, you can substitute low-fat milk or a non-dairy milk alternative. Ensure the flour is fully incorporated into the milk to prevent lumps in your gravy. For a twist, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Salt pork and gravy pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or over freshly baked biscuits for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, serve alongside steamed green beans or a simple salad, such as Hidden Valley Ranch Quick Potato Salad, to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salt pork and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to loosen the gravy, and warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent separation. Stir frequently for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salt Pork And Gravy contains roughly 493 calories, with 13g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 693mg per serving (30% 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 fresh pork instead of salt pork?
Yes, you can use fresh pork, but you'll need to adjust the seasoning since salt pork is cured and salty. Consider brining fresh pork beforehand or adding additional salt to taste in the gravy. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the cut of fresh pork you choose.
What can I serve with salt pork and gravy?
This dish goes well with a variety of sides. Classic options include cornbread, collard greens, or even baked beans. For a lighter option, consider pairing it with a fresh salad. The richness of the gravy complements starchy sides like mashed potatoes or rice beautifully.
How do I know when the gravy is thick enough?
The gravy should coat the back of a spoon and have a smooth, velvety texture. If it runs off too quickly, continue cooking and stirring until it reaches your desired thickness. Remember, it will thicken further as it cools, so remove it from heat just before it reaches the final consistency.
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).