Exploring the Timeless Delight of Biscuits and Gravy

Have you ever savored the delightful combination of biscuits and gravy? It's a classic Southern dish that has captured the hearts of many. From my homemade breakfast to the nostalgic memories it evokes, this hearty meal continues to be a favorite.

The Art of Making Perfect Biscuits and Gravy

I recently indulged in a homemade biscuit and gravy meal. For the gravy, I opted for a unique twist by using turkey sausage instead of beef or pork, which added a delightful twist to the traditional flavors. As for the biscuits, I used Pillsbury's mix and baked them in my miniature oven. I kept a careful eye on the timing, ensuring that the biscuits weren't too hard. The result was simply amazing—fluffy in the center with just a slight crunch on the outside. The moment of breaking the hot biscuits open and pouring the warm gravy on top is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.

Southern Staples in a Global Setting

Chocolate and tomato gravies are enjoying a surge in popularity, but the classic sausage or bacon gravy remains a beloved staple. Growing up in the Midwest USA, my mother made biscuits and gravy—or BG as we affectionately called it—every Sunday morning. Now living abroad, one of the few foods I miss is BG. It is quite challenging to find the necessary ingredients, which makes me cherish every chance to devour it. When I return home, my mother always makes a big batch of BG for my first meal, and I am typically joined by scrambled eggs, bacon, and hash browns. It's a big breakfast that is rich and satisfying but, unfortunately, not particularly conducive to a healthy waistline. However, the pleasure of indulging in this dish is purely for its taste and warmth of home.

Vegetarian and Vegan Variations

It's important to note that while the traditional biscuits and gravy are a hearty meal, modern variations offer delicious and plant-based alternatives. Both before and after becoming vegan, I have enjoyed biscuits and gravy. They are not only a celebration of life but also a source of pleasure, whether they come from a sentient being or a plant-based source. When made vegan, the dish is much more flavorful and satisfying.

Creating Your Own Biscuits and Gravy from Scratch

On a recent Saturday morning, I crafted both the biscuits and the gravy from scratch. The process was rewarding, and the results were truly outstanding. Starting with the biscuits, the mixture of flour, baking powder, salt, and butter was whisked to perfection. The mixture was then gently folded and shaped into squares. For the gravy, I used a combination of onions, flour, and plant-based milk, simmered to a rich consistency.

The Global Perspective on Biscuits and Gravy

While biscuits and gravy are a beloved dish in the Southern United States, the concept does not align with the culinary traditions of other regions. In Britain, for example, biscuits (which are often sweet) would not pair well with savory gravy. It is a similar sentiment to serving cookies with gravy in the United States. The combination is visually and taste-wise incongruous, hence it would be quite unsettling for a British palate.

Whether homemade or store-bought, the time and care that goes into preparing biscuits and gravy make it a special meal. It brings a taste of home and nostalgia to your table, making it a cherished dish to be enjoyed and shared with loved ones.