Tomato gravy is more than just a dish; it’s a cherished Southern tradition that warms the heart and fills the belly. This tangy, savory topping is a breakfast staple in many households, including mine. I fondly remember the comforting sound of my mom popping open a jar of my grandmother’s homemade canned tomatoes, setting the stage for countless delicious meals. Whether you pour it over biscuits, scrambled eggs, or even shrimp and grits, Southern Tomato Gravy is a delightful way to elevate your breakfast game.
Essential Ingredients for Tomato Gravy
Creating the perfect Southern Tomato Gravy requires a few key ingredients that come together to create a rich and flavorful sauce.
Fat
The choice of fat is crucial as it forms the base for the gravy. Common options include:
- Vegetable Oil: A neutral flavor that works well.
- Shortening: Adds a flaky texture.
- Bacon Grease: Infuses the gravy with a smoky flavor, elevating its taste.
- Rendered Sausage Fat: Provides a hearty richness.
Flour
Using all-purpose flour is essential for creating the roux that thickens the gravy. The roux forms the backbone of the dish, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency.
Chicken Broth/Stock
Incorporating chicken broth or stock adds a depth of flavor that plain water cannot achieve. It enhances the overall taste of the gravy, making it more savory and satisfying.
Canned Diced Tomatoes
For convenience, using 1 (14.5-ounce) can of diced tomatoes, undrained, is ideal. If fresh tomatoes are preferred, they can be substituted, but be prepared to add extra broth to achieve the desired consistency.
Seasonings
To enhance the flavor of the Tomato Gravy, season with:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
These basic seasonings allow the natural flavors of the tomatoes and fat to shine through.
Preparation Time and Servings
The beauty of Tomato Gravy lies in its simplicity and speed of preparation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 8 people
With only 69 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free addition to your breakfast spread.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Creating Southern Tomato Gravy is an easy process that can be completed in just a few simple steps.
- Heat the Fat: In a skillet over medium heat, add your chosen fat.
- Whisk in the Flour: Once the fat is warm, whisk in the all-purpose flour.
- Cook the Roux: Stir constantly until the flour begins to brown and exudes a nutty aroma, indicating it is ready.
- Add Chicken Broth: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Incorporate the Tomatoes: Add the undrained canned tomatoes to the skillet.
- Season to Taste: Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper, stirring to combine.
- Thicken the Gravy: Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Serve Hot: Enjoy your Tomato Gravy immediately over your choice of biscuits, grits, or other dishes.
Delicious Serving Suggestions
Tomato Gravy is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:
Over Fluffy Biscuits
The classic pairing of Tomato Gravy with homemade biscuits is a match made in heaven. The buttery, flaky biscuits soak up the rich sauce, creating a satisfying and hearty breakfast that guests will love.
Scrambled Eggs
Tomato Gravy also works wonders when drizzled over scrambled eggs. The combination of flavors will surprise your taste buds, making this a must-try for breakfast enthusiasts.
Shrimp and Grits
For a Southern twist, pour Tomato Gravy over a bowl of shrimp and grits. This combination not only elevates the dish but also brings a comforting and homey feel to your dining experience.
Meatloaf and Hamburger Steaks
Beyond breakfast, Tomato Gravy can be used as a flavorful sauce for meatloaf and hamburger steaks, adding moisture and richness to these dishes.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional value of your meals is important. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional information for Tomato Gravy:
- Calories: 69 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 5g
- Sodium: 375mg
These values can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used, so it’s wise to check labels if precise nutritional information is crucial to you.
Embrace the Comfort of Southern Tomato Gravy
In conclusion, Southern Tomato Gravy is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of heritage and family traditions. Its tangy, savory flavor makes it a versatile topping for various meals, bringing comfort to the table. Whether served over fluffy biscuits or alongside a hearty dinner, this dish promises to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. So gather your ingredients and whip up a batch of Tomato Gravy—experience the joy and nostalgia it brings to your kitchen!
