Tomato Gravy
Tomato gravy is a rich and flavorful sauce that combines the savory taste of bacon with the tanginess of tomatoes. Perfect for drenching biscuits or serving over meats, it adds a comforting touch to any meal. This dish is ideal for those who enjoy southern comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat bacon drippings in a large skillet.
- Add flour and cook, stirring over medium-low heat until a very dark roux forms.
- Add the undrained tomatoes and mash with a fork until smooth, stirring constantly.
- Add Worcestershire sauce.
- If more liquid is needed, add a bit of V-8 or tomato juice.
- Adjust the consistency; the gravy should be a rich red and slightly thick.
- Add Tabasco sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using homemade bacon drippings. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the bacon drippings with olive oil or vegan butter. For a spicier kick, experiment with different hot sauces or add diced jalapeños. This tomato gravy is versatile and can also be used as a sauce for dishes like Upside-Down Pizza or over meats in pork recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Tomato gravy is delicious served over biscuits, rice, or mashed potatoes. It also pairs well with fried chicken or Southern-style pork chops. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside M.K.C.'S Potato Salad, which adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gravy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tomato gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the consistency. If the gravy thickens too much, add a splash of V-8 or tomato juice to loosen it up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Gravy contains roughly 96 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 606mg per serving (26% 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 tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! About 2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes will work well. Just make sure to cook them down until they release their juices before adding flour to create the roux.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make tomato gravy gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, mix it with a little cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the gravy to avoid clumping.
What can I serve with tomato gravy?
Tomato gravy is versatile and can be served over many dishes. It pairs wonderfully with fried chicken, biscuits, or even as a sauce over pasta. For a hearty meal, try it with rice or mashed potatoes and a side of greens.
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).