Southern Biscuits and Gravy is definitely a beloved Southern American breakfast dish that combines fluffy, buttery biscuits with a creamy, savory sausage gravy.

This hearty and comforting meal is perfect for a lazy weekend morning or a special brunch treat. The rich flavors and satisfying textures make it a favorite among many, and it’s sure to become a cherished part of your breakfast repertoire.

Southern Biscuits and Gravy

Biscuits and Gravy is relatively easy to make, but like many dishes, there are a few potential pitfalls to be aware of that could affect the outcome. Here are some considerations when making them.

Easy to Make:

1. Biscuits are straightforward to prepare, and the recipe provided is beginner-friendly. As long as you follow the steps and handle the dough gently, you should achieve good results.
2. Cooking the sausage gravy involves simple techniques like browning the sausage (or vegetarian option), adding flour, and gradually incorporating milk. If you follow the instructions, you can make a delicious gravy with ease.

In other words, while Biscuits and Gravy is not overly complicated, it does require attention to detail, particularly with the biscuit dough and gravy consistency.

Potential Challenges:

1. Overhandling the Biscuit Dough: One common mistake is overworking the biscuit dough. If you knead the dough excessively, your biscuits may turn out tough rather than tender and flaky. Be gentle and aim for a light touch.
2. Gravy Consistency: Achieving the right consistency for the gravy can be a bit tricky. Adding the milk gradually and stirring continuously helps prevent lumps. If the gravy becomes too thick, you can thin it with more milk. If it’s too thin, you can simmer it longer to thicken.
3. Seasoning: Seasoning the gravy correctly is crucial. Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Using high-quality sausage with sage can also enhance the flavor.
4. Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly preheated for baking the biscuits. An oven that’s too hot or too cool can affect the biscuits’ texture and color.

Don’t be shy though! With practice and by following the provided recipe and tips, you can easily master this comforting breakfast dish.

Southern Biscuits and Gravy Recipe…

Preparation and Cooking Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the Biscuits:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (240g)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder (12g)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (5g)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (2.5g)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (113g)
• 3/4 cup buttermilk (177ml)

For the Sausage Gravy:

• 1/2 pound breakfast sausage (225g), preferably with sage
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (30g)
• 3 cups whole milk (710ml)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Making the Biscuits:

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually pour in the buttermilk and stir until the dough just comes together.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times, then pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle.
6. Use a round biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out biscuits. Place them on an ungreased baking sheet, with the edges touching.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown.

Making the Sausage Gravy:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes until the flour is well-incorporated and begins to brown slightly.
3. Slowly pour in the milk while continuing to stir, ensuring there are no lumps in the gravy.
4. Allow the gravy to simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency, usually about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Tips:

• For fluffier biscuits, handle the dough as little as possible.
• Cold butter is crucial for tender biscuits.
• Use quality breakfast sausage with sage for authentic flavor.
• Adjust the thickness of the gravy by adding more milk or cooking longer.

Optional Ingredients:

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
• Incorporate cooked and crumbled bacon for extra flavor.

Vegetarian Suggestions:

• Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

The key difference here is that you’re using vegetarian ground sausage or plant-based sausage crumbles instead of traditional meat sausage. The rest of the cooking process remains similar.
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This vegetarian gravy will be just as creamy and flavorful, making it a suitable substitute for the traditional sausage gravy in Biscuits and Gravy.

Additionally, to learn more about meat substitutes for vegans and vegetarian, here is a helpful list.

Ingredients for Vegetarian Sausage Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 1 cup vegetarian ground sausage or crumbles (e.g., soy-based or plant-based sausage)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 500-550 kcal
• Protein: 12-15g
• Carbohydrates: 45-50g
• Fat: 30-35g

Saving Leftovers:

Store any leftover biscuits and gravy separately. Biscuits can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes.

Gravy should be refrigerated and can be reheated on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little milk to restore the consistency.

About Southern Biscuits and Gravy

As its name declares, this is a unique and iconic American dish with Southern roots. It likely originated in the Southern United States in the 19th century, influenced by British and Scottish traditions.

This hearty breakfast has become a staple of Southern cuisine, with countless variations and regional adaptations and it remains a beloved comfort food enjoyed by many across the country.