Indulge in the comforting flavors of a classic Southern tomato gravy recipe. It will take your taste buds on a journey to the heart of the region. This savory sauce is great on biscuits, mashed potatoes, rice, or any dish needing a tomato boost. In this guide, you’ll learn the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips to make this versatile tomato gravy at home.
Key Takeaways
- Discover a classic Southern tomato gravy recipe that’s perfect for comfort food
- Learn the essential ingredients and how to make a flavorful roux base
- Explore step-by-step instructions for simmering the gravy to perfection
- Discover serving suggestions and pairing ideas for this versatile sauce
- Find helpful recipe notes and tips for storage, reheating, and customization
Why You’ll Love This Tomato Gravy Recipe
This tomato gravy recipe is a true Southern classic. It’s loved for its rich, tangy flavor and versatility. Serve it over hot biscuits, mashed potatoes, or even fried chicken. It’s guaranteed to become a beloved family favorite.
What makes this tomato gravy recipe special? It’s made with simple, readily available ingredients. These ingredients come together to create a depth of flavor that’s unbeatable. The juicy, ripe tomatoes, savory butter, and perfectly executed roux make the gravy thick, creamy, and delicious.
The benefits of this tomato gravy recipe don’t stop there. Its versatility is unmatched, making it perfect for many dishes. Whether for breakfast or dinner, this tomato gravy adds a tangy, comforting touch that elevates any meal to something truly special.
“This tomato gravy delivers a perfect blend of sweet and savory, capturing the true essence of Southern flavors in every mouthwatering bite. This culinary masterpiece will leave your family craving seconds, time after time.”
Why will you adore this tomato gravy recipe? It’s incredibly simple to prepare, packed with rich flavors and offers unmatched versatility. Truly, it’s everything you could want and more.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions Tomato Gravy
This tomato gravy recipe is all about a few key ingredients. They come together to create a flavor and texture that’s just right. We’ll look at the main ingredients and talk about substitutes for different diets or tastes.
Tomatoes: The Star of the Show
Juicy, ripe tomatoes are the heart of this recipe. They make the gravy rich and velvety. You can pick from fresh tomatoes, canned, or roasted ones. Each choice adds its own flavor and texture to the dish.
Butter and Flour: The Roux Base
The roux, made from butter and flour, is the secret to this gravy. The butter makes it smooth, and the flour thickens it. For a dairy-free or gluten-free version, use olive oil instead of butter and a gluten-free flour mix.
“The secret to crafting a true tomato gravy lies in perfecting the delicate balance between tangy, juicy tomatoes and a velvety, rich roux. This harmonious blend is what elevates the dish to extraordinary. This perfect balance sets it apart as a true dish.”
Tomato Gravy Recipe
Immerse yourself in the luxurious and bold world of tomato gravy with this recipe. A household essential for those who appreciate quality, this versatile sauce delivers a rich, tangy burst of tomato flavor with an irresistibly smooth texture.
To make this delectable tomato gravy, you’ll need just a few ingredients and a little time. Follow the steps below to create a dish that’s truly outstanding and guaranteed to impress your family and friends with its unforgettable flavor.
Tomato Gravy Recipe Ingredients List
To make this delicious tomato gravy, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Let’s explore what you need to create this tasty dish:
- Fresh, canned, or roasted tomatoes – the star of the show!
- Creamy butter to form the roux base
- All-purpose flour to thicken the gravy
- Savory chicken or vegetable broth for the liquid foundation
- Aromatic onion and garlic for depth of flavor
- Salt and pepper to season the gravy to perfection
- Optional: Heavy cream or half-and-half for a luxurious texture
With these basic recipe ingredients, you’re all set to make a wonderful tomato gravy. It’s sure to delight your taste buds. Let’s begin!
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes (fresh, canned, or roasted) | 2 pounds |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | 4 tablespoons |
| Chicken or vegetable broth | 2 cups |
| Yellow onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Heavy cream or half-and-half (optional) | 1/2 cup |
Cook Time and Preparation
Making this tasty tomato gravy recipe is quick and simple. It requires around 20 minutes of preparation and 35 minutes of cooking time. The exact time can change based on the ingredients and how you cook it.
Prep Time
To start, you need to gather and chop the ingredients. This means dicing onions, mincing garlic, and getting the tomatoes ready. With some planning, you can prep everything in about 15 minutes.
Cook Time
After you’ve prepped everything, it’s time to cook. This part takes about 30 minutes. You’ll simmer the gravy on the stovetop until it thickens and the flavors blend well. The entire process takes approximately 45 minutes to craft this flavorful gravy.
The cook time and prep time can vary. It depends on your cooking skills, the tools and ingredients you use, and how thick you like the gravy. Just pay attention while cooking to get the best results.
“This tomato gravy recipe combines effortless simplicity with an exceptional depth of flavor, making it truly unique. With minimal preparation and a cooking process that allows the ingredients to harmonize perfectly, it offers a standout culinary experience, it’s an experience in culinary ease and excellence.”
Tomato Gravy Recipe Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the perfect tomato gravy is easy and rewarding. Follow these steps to create a delicious tomato gravy that will make your meals better.
Making the Roux
Begin by making the roux, the base of your tomato gravy. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Then, whisk in flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s golden.
Simmering the Gravy
Slowly add the broth, whisking to avoid lumps. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it thicken for 5 minutes, stirring now and then.
Now, add chopped tomatoes, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat and let it gently simmer for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally until the flavors mix well and the gravy thickens.
For a creamier gravy, add heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end.
By following these simple steps, you’ll make a rich, flavorful tomato gravy. It will enhance your meals and satisfy your taste buds.
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until perfectly smooth. Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes to develop a rich and silky roux that sets the foundation for an exceptional dish.
2. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to ensure a smooth texture without lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for 5-7 minutes or until the gravy reaches the perfect thickness and consistency you desire.
3. Add the diced tomatoes and their rich juices, followed by garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together to ensure the flavors blend seamlessly.
4. Turn the heat down to low and let the tomato gravy gently simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to fully meld into a perfectly balanced, rich sauce.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot over your favorite dishes, such as biscuits, mashed potatoes, or roasted meats.
Enjoy this tomato gravy recipe and savor the full, rich flavor in every bite. For the full recipe instructions, be sure to follow the steps above carefully.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Tomato gravy is a versatile and flavorful sauce. It pairs well with many dishes. Try it over hot, flaky biscuits or with creamy mashed potatoes for a classic taste.
For a heartier meal, drizzle it over crispy fried chicken or pork chops. This adds a delicious contrast of textures and tastes.
Looking for something lighter? Use tomato gravy as a dipping sauce for fried okra or savory fritters. It’s also great with pasta or rice for a comforting main dish. The possibilities are endless with serving suggestions and pairing ideas for the best dishes for tomato gravy.
No matter how you enjoy it, tomato gravy’s rich, tangy flavor goes well with many dishes. It’s a must-have in any Southern-style kitchen. Try different serving suggestions and find your new favorite way to enjoy this versatile sauce.
Nutrition Information
Tomato gravy is not only tasty, but it’s also good for you. Let’s look at what makes it nutritious.
A single serving of this tomato gravy recipe, about 1/4 cup, has the following nutritional info:
- Calories: 123
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 22mg
- Sodium: 438mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 3g
The exact nutritional values might change a bit. This depends on the ingredients and brands you use.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 123 | 6% |
| Total Fat | 8g | 10% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Cholesterol | 22mg | 7% |
| Sodium | 438mg | 19% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10g | 3% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g | 7% |
| Sugars | 4g | – |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
Recipe Notes and Tips
Creating the perfect tomato gravy is all about the little things. Adjusting the consistency and trying different tomatoes can make a big difference. Let’s dive into some helpful tips to make your dish stand out.
Adjusting the Consistency
To achieve a thicker, more gravy, add extra flour to the roux, enhancing its velvety smoothness. If the gravy becomes too thick, gradually incorporate a bit more broth, stirring until you reach the ideal consistency.
Tomato Variety Matters
While canned diced tomatoes are great, fresh tomatoes can add a special touch. Try Roma, cherry, or heirloom tomatoes for unique flavors and textures. It’s a great way to make the gravy your own.
Storage and Reheating
Let the gravy cool before storing it in an airtight container. It can stay fresh for up to 5 days when stored in the refrigerator. To reheat, just warm it up in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s hot and ready to go.
“The secret to flawless tomato gravy lies in the fine details. Paying attention to the consistency, tomato selection, and proper storage will ensure your dish shines every time.”
Remember these tips to make a tomato gravy that’s both delicious and tailored to your taste. Enjoy your culinary journey!
Variations and Customizations
This recipe delivers a classic tomato gravy, but there are countless ways to make it uniquely yours. Get creative with different ingredients and flavors to customize it to your personal preferences.
For a richer flavor, add diced bacon or crumbled sausage. A splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar adds a nice tang. Mixing fresh and canned tomatoes gives a great texture.
Enhance the flavor by introducing herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil. For a fiery touch, try adding cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce. Pairing it with grits or polenta takes the creaminess to the next level.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in this tomato gravy recipe?
The main ingredients are tomatoes, butter, and flour. These create a rich, creamy sauce.
How long does it take to make this tomato gravy?
It requires approximately 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, bringing the total time to around 45 minutes until it’s ready.
What are some serving and pairing suggestions for tomato gravy?
It goes well with biscuits, mashed potatoes, and fried chicken or pork chops. It’s also great with fried okra, fritters, pasta, or rice. It’s perfect for Southern comfort foods.
What is the nutritional information for this tomato gravy recipe?
One serving has 123 calories, 8g fat, 5g saturated fat, and 22mg cholesterol. It also has 438mg sodium, 10g carbs, 2g fiber, 4g sugar, and 3g protein.