1/4 cup (64 g) Country Sausage Gravy contains approximately 70 calories. This creamy, meaty and savory gravy is a popular addition to breakfast and brunch dishes, especially in the Southern United States.
Country sausage gravy is typically made with ground breakfast sausage, flour, milk, and seasonings like black pepper and salt. It's high in fat and calories, but can be a delicious indulgence when enjoyed in moderation.
In this article, we'll explore the different culinary uses, nutritional information, and health benefits of this classic comfort food.
Culinary Uses of Country Sausage Gravy
Country sausage gravy is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different dishes. It's most commonly served over biscuits, breakfast sandwiches, or fried chicken, but can also be used in casseroles or as a dipping sauce. Some people enjoy adding additional ingredients to their country sausage gravy, such as chopped onions, bell peppers, or even jalapenos for a spicy kick. It can also be used to add flavor to mashed potatoes or vegetables, or as a topping for pizza or french fries. Overall, country sausage gravy is a beloved Southern staple that adds richness and depth of flavor to any dish it's used in.
How to Store Country Sausage Gravy
If you have leftover country sausage gravy, it's important to store it properly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, transfer the gravy to a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Be sure to discard any leftover gravy that has been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours or has developed an off odor or appearance. Alternatively, you can freeze leftover country sausage gravy for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze until ready to use.
Ingredients in Country Sausage Gravy
Country sausage gravy typically contains simple ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. The main ingredients are ground breakfast sausage, flour, milk, and seasonings like black pepper and salt. Some people may add additional ingredients like onions, garlic, or thyme for extra flavor. Others may use a different type of sausage, such as spicy sausage or turkey sausage, for a healthier option. It's important to note that country sausage gravy is a high-fat, high-calorie food, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
One serving of country sausage gravy (1/4 cup or 64 g) contains approximately 70 calories, 5 grams of fat, and 3 grams of protein. It's also high in sodium and cholesterol. While country sausage gravy can be a delicious treat, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and overall calorie intake. It may not be the best choice for those following a low-fat or low-sodium diet. However, if enjoyed in moderation, country sausage gravy can add flavor and richness to breakfast or brunch dishes without derailing a healthy diet.
Cooking Tips for Country Sausage Gravy
When making country sausage gravy, it's important to cook the sausage thoroughly before adding the other ingredients. This helps ensure the gravy is safe to eat and free of harmful bacteria. Once the sausage is cooked, add the flour and stir constantly for a few minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk, and continue stirring until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Be sure to season the gravy with plenty of black pepper and a dash of salt to enhance the flavors. And if the gravy is too thick, you can thin it out with more milk or water to achieve a smoother texture.
Preparation Time for Country Sausage Gravy
The preparation time for country sausage gravy varies depending on the recipe and the level of experience of the cook. Generally, it takes about 30 minutes to make from start to finish. However, if you're short on time, you can use a premade mix or canned gravy as a shortcut. Just be aware that these options may contain more preservatives or artificial flavors and may not taste as good as homemade gravy. Overall, country sausage gravy is a relatively easy and forgiving recipe that can be adjusted to suit your preferences and cooking style.
Alternative Dishes with Country Sausage Gravy
While country sausage gravy is most commonly served over biscuits or breakfast sandwiches, there are many other dishes that can benefit from its rich and savory flavor. For example, you can add country sausage gravy to breakfast bowls with eggs or potatoes, or use it to top fried chicken or meatloaf. It can also be a delicious addition to shepherd's pie, lasagna, or mac and cheese. Be creative and experiment with different dishes to find your favorite uses for country sausage gravy.
Popular Brands of Country Sausage Gravy
There are many brands of country sausage gravy available in grocery stores and online. Some of the most popular brands include Jimmy Dean, Bob Evans, and Hormel. While these brands are convenient and often tasty, they may contain more preservatives or artificial ingredients than homemade gravy. Be sure to check the nutrition label for information on fat, sodium, and calorie content before purchasing. If you have the time and inclination, homemade country sausage gravy is a delicious and satisfying alternative to store-bought varieties.
Regional Variations of Country Sausage Gravy
While country sausage gravy is beloved throughout the United States, there are regional variations that reflect local tastes and traditions. In the South, country sausage gravy is typically made with breakfast sausage and served over biscuits or fried chicken. In the Midwest, it's often served over mashed potatoes or cornbread. And in the Pacific Northwest, it may be served over salmon cakes or hash browns. Each variation offers a unique twist on this classic dish, and is worth trying if you have the opportunity.
Health Benefits of Country Sausage Gravy
While country sausage gravy is not exactly a health food, it does offer a few benefits as part of a balanced diet. For example, the protein in the sausage can help keep you feeling full and satisfied, while the milk provides calcium and other important nutrients. Additionally, the flavors and aromas of country sausage gravy can provide a comforting and enjoyable eating experience. Overall, it's important to enjoy country sausage gravy in moderation, while balancing it with plenty of other healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
5 FAQ about Country Sausage Gravy
1. What ingredients are in Country Sausage Gravy?
Country Sausage Gravy typically includes pork sausage, flour, milk, and seasonings like salt and pepper. Some recipes may include additional ingredients like onions or garlic.
2. How is Country Sausage Gravy typically used?
Country Sausage Gravy is traditionally used as a topping for biscuits, but can also be used as a dip or sauce for other foods like fried chicken or mashed potatoes.
3. How many calories are in Country Sausage Gravy?
One serving of Country Sausage Gravy (1/4 cup or 64g) typically contains around 70 calories.
4. Is Country Sausage Gravy gluten-free?
Most Country Sausage Gravy is not gluten-free, as it typically contains flour as a thickener. However, gluten-free versions can be made using alternative flours like rice flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour.
5. Can Country Sausage Gravy be made ahead of time?
Yes, Country Sausage Gravy can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm the gravy in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.