Bacon Milk Gravy for Biscuits Recipe

Bacon: Provides a savory, smoky flavor and crispy texture to the gravy.

All-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent to create a smooth, creamy gravy.

Milk: Adds richness and helps achieve the desired consistency of the gravy.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the gravy.

Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the gravy.

When making gravy, it's crucial to whisk the flour into the bacon drippings thoroughly to create a smooth roux. This step ensures that the gravy will be lump-free and have a consistent texture. Additionally, gradually adding the milk while continuously whisking helps to incorporate it evenly, preventing any clumping and resulting in a creamy, rich gravy.

• bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option and provides a similar smoky flavor.

• bacon - Substitute with vegetarian bacon: Vegetarian bacon offers a plant-based alternative while maintaining a similar texture and taste.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a bit more fiber and nutrients while still thickening the gravy.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: A gluten-free flour blend is ideal for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

• milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk is a dairy-free option that still provides a creamy texture.

• milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk is another dairy-free alternative that offers a slightly sweet and creamy consistency.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory depth of flavor and saltiness to the gravy.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a direct replacement for regular salt, offering a slightly different mineral content.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a spicier kick to the gravy, so use sparingly.

• Allow the bacon milk gravy to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the gravy watery.

• Transfer the cooled gravy into an airtight container. Make sure to leave a little space at the top to allow for expansion if you plan to freeze it.

• Label the container with the date and contents. This helps you keep track of how long the gravy has been stored.

• For refrigeration, place the container in the fridge. The gravy will keep for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain a smooth consistency.

• For freezing, place the container in the freezer. The bacon milk gravy can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to use, thaw the gravy in the refrigerator overnight.

• Reheat the thawed gravy on the stove over low heat, stirring constantly. If the gravy appears too thick, add a splash of milk to reach the desired consistency.

• Avoid reheating the gravy in the microwave, as it can cause uneven heating and may result in a lumpy texture. Always opt for stovetop reheating for the best results.

• If you notice any separation or graininess in the reheated gravy, whisk vigorously to bring it back to a smooth consistency. Adding a small amount of butter can also help to emulsify the gravy.

• For best flavor and texture, consume the reheated bacon milk gravy within a day or two after thawing.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Pour the bacon milk gravy into a skillet or saucepan.
  2. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
  3. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
  4. Continue to stir until the gravy is heated through and smooth, about 5-7 minutes.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Transfer the gravy to a microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or a microwave-safe plate to prevent splatters.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-minute intervals, stirring in between each interval.
  4. If the gravy is too thick, add a small amount of milk and stir well.
  5. Continue heating and stirring until the gravy is hot and smooth.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Transfer the gravy to an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  3. Heat in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  4. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of milk and stir well before serving.

• Double Boiler Method:

  1. Fill the bottom pot of a double boiler with water and bring to a simmer.
  2. Place the gravy in the top pot of the double boiler.
  3. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent the gravy from sticking.
  4. Heat until the gravy is hot and smooth, adding a bit of milk if needed to adjust the consistency.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for cooking the bacon and making the gravy.

• Whisk: A tool used to mix the flour into the bacon drippings and to blend the milk smoothly into the mixture.

• Tongs: Used to handle and remove the cooked bacon from the skillet.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the milk accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the flour and seasonings accurately.

• Spatula: Useful for stirring the gravy and scraping the sides of the skillet.

• Cutting board: A surface for chopping the bacon before cooking.

• Knife: Used to chop the bacon into pieces.

• Serving spoon: Used to ladle the gravy over the biscuits.

• Plate: A surface to set aside the cooked bacon.

• Biscuit cutter: If making homemade biscuits, this tool helps to cut out the biscuit shapes.

• Oven: If making homemade biscuits, this is used to bake them.

Pre-cook the bacon: Cook the bacon in advance and store it in the fridge. This way, you can quickly add it to the gravy when needed.

Use a whisk: A whisk helps to blend the flour and milk smoothly, preventing lumps and saving time.

Measure ingredients beforehand: Have all your ingredients measured and ready to go before you start cooking.

Use pre-made biscuits: Save time by using store-bought biscuits instead of making them from scratch.