Biscuits and Gravy Recipe

Biscuits and Gravy Recipe: A Southern Comfort Classic with a Twist

Introduction:

Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of this southern staple: Biscuits and Gravy! Our special twist adds a tantalizing kick to this classic dish, making it the perfect breakfast, brunch, or dinner companion. Its comforting texture and unforgettable taste will leave you craving for more.

Origin and History Of This Recipe

Biscuits and gravy originated in the southern states of United States, particularly the Appalachian and Southern Highlands regions, around the end of 19th century and the beginning of 20th century. This dish was a staple food for working-class families and farmers, as it was inexpensive, filling and easy to make with ingredients they had on hand.

This hearty dish was a creative way to use up leftover biscuits and gravy, which were typically made with flour, lard, milk, and salt. Over time, the recipe evolved, and variations started to emerge, including the addition of sausage, bacon, or other meats to the gravy.

Personal Touch:

My grandmother used to make the best biscuits and gravy. It was a dish that always brought our family together. The aroma of freshly baked biscuits and simmering gravy would fill the house, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Her secret ingredient? A dash of cayenne pepper in the gravy, which added a subtle and delightful kick.

Tings To Expect In This Post Article

In this article, you’ll discover:

• The history and origin of Biscuits and Gravy
• A personal touch and family memories associated with this dish
• A comprehensive ingredients list and step-by-step preparation instructions
• Nutritional information and health benefits
• Health precautions and people who should avoid this dish
• Tips, tricks, variations, and serving suggestions
• Equipment needed
• Storage and reheating instructions

Ingredients List:

• For the Biscuits:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
  • 1 cup buttermilk
• For the Gravy:
  • 1 pound breakfast sausage
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps:

1. Make the Biscuits:

   • Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • Work in the cold butter using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Add the buttermilk and stir until just combined.
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead a few times until it comes together.
   • Pat the dough out to a 1-inch thick square and cut into 8-10 biscuits.
   • Place the biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

2. Make the Gravy:

   • Brown the breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces.
   • Drain off any excess grease.
   • Sprinkle the flour over the sausage and stir to coat.
   • Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
   • Season with cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble and Serve:

   • Split the biscuits in half and smother each half with gravy.
   • Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Cooking Time & Servings:

• Total cooking time: 30-35 minutes
• Serves: 8-10

Nutritional Information:

• Per serving (1 biscuit with 1/2 cup gravy):
  • Calories: 450
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Protein: 15g

Health Conditions And People To Avoid This

People with certain health conditions may want to avoid consuming Biscuits and Gravy. These include:

• Heart disease: The high fat content in this dish can contribute to heart disease.
• High cholesterol: The butter and sausage in this recipe are high in cholesterol.
• Obesity: The high calorie content can contribute to weight gain.

Nutrition and Benefits To The Body

Milk:

• Protein: Builds and repairs tissues, muscles, and bones.
• Calcium: Essential for strong bones and teeth.
• Vitamin D: Supports bone health and immune function.

Flour:

• Carbohydrates: Provides energy for the body.
• Fiber: Supports digestion and weight management.

Sausage:

• Protein: Building and repairing tissues.
• Vitamin B12: Essential for red blood cell production.

Disadvantages

High fat content:

• Can increase cholesterol levels.
• May contribute to heart disease and obesity.

High sodium content:

• Can raise blood pressure.
• May lead to fluid retention.

Eating moderately is perfectly fine, but acquiring excess of this nutrients is harmful.

Tips and Tricks:

• For flakier biscuits, use very cold butter and buttermilk.
• If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk.
• To make a vegetarian gravy, substitute vegetable broth for the milk.
• For a spicier gravy, add more cayenne pepper to taste.

Equipment Needed:

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry cutter or fingers
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large skillet
• Whisk

Variations or Substitutions:

• Biscuit variations: You can use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also add shredded cheese, herbs, or spices to the dough for extra flavor.
• Gravy variations: You can use ground beef or turkey instead of breakfast sausage. You can also add vegetables to the gravy, such as diced onions, peppers, or mushrooms.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve Biscuits and Gravy with your favorite breakfast sides, such as eggs, bacon, or fruit.
• You can also serve Biscuits and Gravy as a main course with a side of salad or vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions:

• Store leftover biscuits and gravy separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat the biscuits, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
• To reheat the gravy, place it in a saucepan over medium heat and stir until heated through.

Conclusion:

Indulge in the comforting flavors and hearty goodness of our Biscuits and Gravy Recipe. With its customizable variations, this classic dish will surely become a