Gravy. That rich, savory, often comforting sauce. It’s more than just a condiment; it’s a flavor enhancer, a meal completer, and sometimes, the star of the show. But what exactly goes well with this delectable creation? Let’s embark on a culinary journey to explore the myriad of foods that are elevated by the simple addition of gravy.
The Classics: Gravy’s Traditional Partners
Some pairings are timeless for a reason. They work, they’re delicious, and they evoke a sense of nostalgia. These are the classics, the go-to dishes that almost everyone associates with a generous ladle of gravy.
Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: A Match Made in Heaven
Perhaps the most iconic pairing of all, mashed potatoes and gravy is the ultimate comfort food. The creamy, fluffy texture of the potatoes provides the perfect canvas for the savory, often meaty, flavor of the gravy. The combination is simple yet satisfying, a testament to the power of complementary flavors.
Different variations of mashed potatoes work well with different gravies. For example, a smooth, buttery mashed potato is fantastic with a classic brown gravy, while a chunkier, rustic mash might pair better with a mushroom gravy. The key is to find a balance between the texture of the potatoes and the richness of the gravy. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different potato varieties and gravy flavors to find your perfect match.
Roast Chicken and Gravy: The Sunday Dinner Staple
Roast chicken, especially when cooked to golden-brown perfection, is already a culinary delight. But adding gravy takes it to another level. The pan drippings from the roasted chicken, often used as the base for the gravy, create a harmonious flavor profile that complements the poultry perfectly.
The gravy moistens the chicken, preventing it from drying out, and adds a richness that enhances the overall taste. It’s a classic Sunday dinner for a reason, bringing families together over a shared love of good food. Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to your chicken and gravy for an extra layer of flavor.
Biscuits and Gravy: A Southern Comfort
For a heartier, more substantial meal, biscuits and gravy are a Southern staple that delivers on comfort and flavor. Flaky, buttery biscuits are smothered in a creamy, often sausage-based, gravy, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
The contrast between the light, airy biscuits and the rich, savory gravy is what makes this combination so irresistible. It’s a breakfast, brunch, or even dinner option that’s sure to please. Make sure your biscuits are freshly baked for the best possible texture and flavor.
Beyond the Basics: Expanding Your Gravy Horizons
While the classics are beloved, there’s a whole world of culinary possibilities waiting to be explored with gravy. Don’t limit yourself to the traditional pairings; venture out and discover new and exciting ways to enjoy this versatile sauce.
Meatloaf and Gravy: A Comforting Combination
Meatloaf, another comfort food staple, benefits greatly from the addition of gravy. The moistness of the gravy helps to prevent the meatloaf from drying out, and the savory flavor complements the meaty taste of the loaf.
A simple brown gravy or a mushroom gravy works particularly well with meatloaf. The key is to choose a gravy that isn’t too overpowering, allowing the flavor of the meatloaf to still shine through. Consider adding a glaze to your meatloaf before baking for an extra layer of flavor and moisture.
Steak and Gravy: An Elevated Experience
While steak is often enjoyed on its own, a well-chosen gravy can elevate the dish to new heights. A peppercorn gravy, a red wine gravy, or even a simple brown gravy can add richness and complexity to the flavor of the steak.
The gravy should complement the flavor of the steak, not mask it. A lighter gravy is best for leaner cuts of steak, while a richer gravy can stand up to the bold flavors of a fattier cut. Experiment with different gravy flavors to find your perfect steak pairing.
Pork Chops and Gravy: A Flavorful Combination
Pork chops, often prone to dryness, are another excellent candidate for gravy. The gravy helps to keep the pork chops moist and flavorful, while also adding a touch of richness to the dish.
An apple cider gravy, a mushroom gravy, or even a simple pan gravy made from the pork chop drippings can all work well. The key is to choose a gravy that complements the flavor of the pork without overpowering it. Brining your pork chops before cooking can help to keep them moist and tender.
Rice and Gravy: A Simple and Satisfying Meal
For a simple yet satisfying meal, rice and gravy is a surprisingly versatile option. The rice provides a neutral base for the gravy, allowing its flavor to really shine through.
Any type of rice can be used, from white rice to brown rice to wild rice. The key is to choose a gravy that complements the type of rice you’re using. A creamy mushroom gravy is delicious over white rice, while a heartier brown gravy might pair better with brown rice. Consider adding vegetables to your rice and gravy for a more complete and nutritious meal.
Vegetarian and Vegan Gravy Pairings
Gravy isn’t just for meat lovers! There are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options that pair beautifully with a flavorful gravy.
Vegetable Pot Pie and Gravy: A Comforting Classic
Vegetable pot pie, filled with a medley of colorful vegetables, is a comforting and satisfying vegetarian meal. Adding a creamy vegetable gravy takes it to the next level.
The gravy adds richness and moisture to the pot pie, while also complementing the flavors of the vegetables. A mushroom gravy, a vegetable broth-based gravy, or even a cashew-based gravy can all work well. Experiment with different vegetable combinations and gravy flavors to create your own unique pot pie.
Polenta and Gravy: A Versatile Vegetarian Option
Polenta, a creamy cornmeal dish, is a versatile vegetarian option that can be paired with a variety of gravies. The polenta provides a blank canvas for the gravy, allowing its flavor to really shine through.
A mushroom gravy, a tomato gravy, or even a vegetable ragu can all be delicious over polenta. The key is to choose a gravy that complements the texture and flavor of the polenta. Consider adding herbs or cheese to your polenta for an extra layer of flavor.
Lentil Loaf and Gravy: A Hearty and Flavorful Meal
Lentil loaf, a vegetarian alternative to meatloaf, is a hearty and flavorful meal that pairs well with gravy. The gravy helps to keep the lentil loaf moist and flavorful, while also adding a touch of richness.
A mushroom gravy, a tomato gravy, or even a simple vegetable gravy can all work well. The key is to choose a gravy that complements the flavor of the lentils and other vegetables in the loaf. Add some smoked paprika for depth to your lentil loaf and pair it with a smoky mushroom gravy.
Gravy Around the World: Global Inspiration
Gravy isn’t just an American or European phenomenon. Many cultures around the world have their own versions of gravy that are used to enhance a variety of dishes.
Poutine (Canada): The Quintessential Gravy Dish
Poutine, a Canadian classic, consists of french fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. The gravy is typically a light brown gravy, often with a slightly sweet and tangy flavor.
The combination of crispy fries, squeaky cheese curds, and savory gravy is what makes poutine so irresistible. It’s a comfort food staple that’s enjoyed by people of all ages. Experiment with different types of fries and gravies to create your own unique poutine.
Loco Moco (Hawaii): A Hawaiian Comfort Food
Loco Moco, a Hawaiian comfort food, consists of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and gravy. The gravy is typically a brown gravy, often with a slightly sweet and savory flavor.
The combination of rice, hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Try adding some teriyaki sauce to your gravy for a Hawaiian-inspired twist.
Salsbury Steak (Various): The Hamburger Gravy Delight
Salsbury Steak is usually made with ground beef and other ingredients and served with a flavorful mushroom gravy. It brings a savory taste and moistness to the dish. This option is classic and enjoyed worldwide.
Tips for Making the Perfect Gravy
Making great gravy is an art. Here are some tips to help you create the perfect gravy every time.
- Use high-quality ingredients. The better the ingredients, the better the gravy.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors. Try adding different herbs, spices, or vegetables to your gravy to create unique and delicious combinations.
- Use a thickening agent. Flour, cornstarch, or arrowroot powder can all be used to thicken gravy.
- Strain the gravy. This will remove any lumps and create a smooth, silky texture.
- Season to taste. Don’t be afraid to add salt, pepper, or other seasonings to your gravy to achieve the perfect flavor.
- Use pan drippings. Utilizing the drippings from your roast or pan-fried meat adds incredible flavor and depth to your gravy. Make sure to skim off excess fat for a cleaner taste.
Gravy is more than just a sauce; it’s an experience. It’s a way to enhance the flavor of your favorite foods, to create comforting and satisfying meals, and to explore new culinary horizons. So, embrace the versatility of gravy and discover the endless possibilities that await!
What are the most classic foods to eat with gravy?
Gravy finds its most comfortable home alongside roasted meats and poultry. Think succulent roast beef, juicy turkey, or crispy chicken. Mashed potatoes are another cornerstone companion, providing a creamy, starchy canvas for the rich sauce. Yorkshire pudding also often makes an appearance with gravy, especially in a traditional British roast dinner.
Other classic choices include biscuits, especially in the Southern United States, and meatloaf, which benefits greatly from the added moisture and flavor. The pairing is often rooted in comfort food and familiar flavors, providing a sense of warmth and satisfaction. These foundational combinations are beloved for a reason and are often the starting point for exploring the versatility of gravy.
Can gravy be paired with vegetables?
Absolutely! Gravy can elevate many vegetable dishes from simple sides to something truly special. Steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and green beans gain depth and flavor with a generous drizzle of gravy. The savory notes of the gravy complement the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
Beyond single vegetables, gravy works wonders with vegetable-based casseroles and gratins. The creamy texture and rich flavor of the gravy can bind the ingredients together, adding a touch of indulgence. For vegetarians, gravy made with vegetable broth provides a satisfying and flavorful alternative to meat-based options.
What types of gravy are best suited for different foods?
The type of gravy you choose should complement the food it accompanies. For example, a rich, dark brown gravy made from beef drippings is ideal for roast beef and mashed potatoes. The robust flavor of the gravy enhances the savory notes of the beef.
On the other hand, a lighter, more delicate gravy made with chicken or turkey broth pairs perfectly with poultry and stuffing. Creamy mushroom gravy is an excellent choice for vegetables and biscuits, offering a savory and earthy flavor profile. Paying attention to the nuances of each gravy type ensures a harmonious and delicious pairing.
Is it acceptable to put gravy on pasta?
While not a traditional pairing in Italian cuisine, gravy can indeed be a delicious addition to pasta. A hearty meat gravy, similar to a Bolognese sauce but richer and thicker, can transform a simple pasta dish into a satisfying meal. It works particularly well with sturdy pasta shapes like rigatoni or penne, which can hold the gravy well.
The key is to ensure the gravy isn’t overly salty or heavy. Using a good quality broth and allowing the gravy to simmer and develop its flavors slowly is essential. Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme can also enhance the flavor profile and create a unique and comforting pasta dish.
What are some unexpected or unusual foods to eat with gravy?
Beyond the classics, gravy can add a delightful twist to unexpected foods. Consider using gravy as a dipping sauce for fries or onion rings, adding a savory and comforting element to these typically salty snacks. Sweet potato fries, in particular, are surprisingly good with a savory gravy.
Another unexpected pairing is gravy on pizza. While not a common topping, gravy can provide a creamy and flavorful base for toppings like sausage, mushrooms, and onions. It’s a departure from traditional tomato sauce, but can be surprisingly delicious for those seeking a different pizza experience.
Can gravy be used as a sauce for breakfast foods?
Absolutely! Gravy, particularly sausage gravy, is a breakfast staple in many parts of the United States. It’s most commonly served over biscuits, creating a hearty and satisfying morning meal. The combination of the savory gravy and the fluffy biscuits is a classic example of comfort food.
However, the possibilities extend beyond biscuits. Gravy can also be used as a topping for breakfast potatoes, scrambled eggs, or even waffles. A drizzle of gravy can add a touch of richness and flavor to these breakfast favorites, elevating them from ordinary to extraordinary.
How can I make a vegetarian gravy that is just as flavorful as meat-based gravy?
Creating a flavorful vegetarian gravy starts with a rich and flavorful vegetable broth. Using a high-quality broth is crucial, as it forms the foundation of the gravy’s flavor profile. Roasting the vegetables used to make the broth beforehand can add depth and complexity.
To enhance the umami notes, consider adding ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, soy sauce, or nutritional yeast. These ingredients contribute a savory richness that mimics the flavor of meat-based gravies. Experimenting with herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, and sage can further enhance the flavor and create a delicious and satisfying vegetarian gravy.