Cracked Pepper Gravy: A Flavorful Delight for Any Meal
Indulge in the rich, bold flavors of Cracked Pepper Gravy, a versatile accompaniment that elevates everything from biscuits to roasted meats. This delightful recipe, which can be prepared in just 25 minutes, showcases the aromatic and robust characteristics of cracked pepper, providing a unique twist that distinguishes it from standard pepper. This recipe is not only simple but also budget-friendly, making it perfect for beginner cooks looking to add a touch of Southwestern flair to their culinary repertoire.
Recipe Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Description | A savory, peppery gravy that enhances any dish with its robust flavor. |
| Recipe Category | Southwestern U.S. |
| Servings | Approximately 3 cups |
| Keywords | < 30 Mins, Beginner Cook, Easy, Inexpensive |
Ingredients
To create this luscious gravy, you will need the following ingredients, which combine to create a smooth, flavorful sauce that can enhance your favorite meals.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1/4 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 5 tablespoons |
| Milk | 2 1/2 cups |
| Kosher salt | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Cracked pepper | 4 teaspoons |
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional value of your meal can help you make informed choices. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving of this delicious gravy.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320.3 kcal |
| Total Fat | 23 g |
| Saturated Fat | 14.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 69.1 mg |
| Sodium | 975.3 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 21.2 g |
| Fiber | 1.1 g |
| Sugar | 0.1 g |
| Protein | 8.5 g |
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to craft your own Cracked Pepper Gravy, ensuring a velvety texture and a depth of flavor that will impress your family and friends:
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Melt the Butter: Begin by placing a heavy saucepan over medium heat and adding the unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, watching for the foam to settle down slightly, indicating that it’s ready for the next step.
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Whisk in the Flour: Once the butter is fully melted, carefully whisk in the all-purpose flour. Ensure that the flour is fully incorporated into the melted butter, stirring continuously to prevent any lumps from forming.
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Cook the Flour: Continue to whisk the mixture for several minutes, allowing the flour to cook. You are aiming for a fragrant light brown color, which will impart a nutty flavor to your gravy. This process usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
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Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while continuing to whisk vigorously. This step is crucial as it helps maintain a smooth consistency, preventing any lumps from forming. Keep whisking until the mixture is well combined and starts to thicken.
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Season the Gravy: Once the milk is fully incorporated, add the kosher salt and the freshly cracked pepper to the gravy. The cracked pepper will provide a stronger, more aromatic flavor than regular ground pepper, enhancing the overall taste of your gravy.
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Simmer and Reduce: Allow the gravy to simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This will not only help to thicken the gravy further but will also allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
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Serve Hot: Once your gravy has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Serve it hot over biscuits, mashed potatoes, or your favorite meats for a deliciously comforting meal.
Conclusion
Cracked Pepper Gravy is an easy yet impressive addition to any dish, bringing a warmth and depth of flavor that will have your guests asking for seconds. This recipe embodies the spirit of Southwestern cuisine while remaining accessible to cooks of all levels. Whether you’re whipping it up for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this gravy is sure to become a cherished staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the delightful blend of buttery richness and peppery kick that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your meals.
