Sausage and gravy. Just the words evoke images of hearty breakfasts, comforting dinners, and stick-to-your-ribs satisfaction. But while this dish is delicious on its own, knowing what complements it can elevate your meal from simple to sublime. Let’s delve into the delectable world of sausage and gravy pairings, exploring the textures, flavors, and ingredients that harmonize perfectly with this classic Southern staple.
The Foundation: Understanding Sausage and Gravy’s Flavor Profile
Before we dive into specific pairings, it’s crucial to understand what makes sausage and gravy so appealing. Generally, sausage and gravy boasts a rich, savory flavor profile. The sausage, typically pork-based, provides a meaty, sometimes spicy or sweet, undertone. The gravy, made with milk or cream and seasoned with black pepper, offers a creamy, comforting counterpoint. The fat content is significant, contributing to its richness and overall satisfying experience.
This combination presents a blank canvas for various flavors and textures. We want to introduce elements that either complement or contrast these existing characteristics, creating a balanced and exciting meal.
Classic Breakfast Companions
Sausage and gravy are intrinsically linked to breakfast. Several classic breakfast items serve as excellent pairings.
Biscuits: The Undisputed King
Let’s start with the obvious: biscuits. Flaky, buttery biscuits are the quintessential partner for sausage and gravy. Their neutral flavor allows the gravy to shine, while their slightly crumbly texture provides a delightful contrast to the smooth creaminess of the gravy. The combination is a textural and flavor match made in heaven. Whether you prefer homemade biscuits or a quality store-bought version, this pairing is a must-try.
Eggs: Any Style Works
Eggs, prepared in virtually any style, are a welcome addition to a sausage and gravy breakfast. Scrambled eggs offer a light and fluffy contrast to the richness of the gravy. Fried eggs, especially with runny yolks, create an even more decadent experience as the yolk mingles with the gravy. Poached eggs, with their delicate texture and rich yolk, provide a sophisticated touch. The protein from the eggs also helps to balance out the meal, making it more satisfying.
Potatoes: A Starchy Sidekick
Potatoes, in their various forms, provide a starchy base that soaks up the gravy beautifully. Hash browns, shredded and fried until golden brown, offer a crispy texture that complements the creamy gravy. Diced potatoes, pan-fried or roasted, offer a heartier option. Even mashed potatoes can be a delightful addition, creating a comforting and familiar flavor profile. Consider seasoning your potatoes with garlic, onions, or paprika to add another layer of flavor.
Venturing Beyond Breakfast: Lunch and Dinner Pairings
While sausage and gravy often appear on breakfast menus, its versatility extends far beyond the morning meal.
Chicken Fried Steak: A Southern Classic
Chicken fried steak, breaded and fried until golden brown, is a natural partner for sausage and gravy. The crispy, savory steak provides a textural contrast to the creamy gravy, while the flavors complement each other perfectly. This combination is a true Southern comfort food classic, guaranteed to satisfy even the heartiest appetite. A dollop of mashed potatoes alongside completes the meal.
Open-Faced Sandwiches: A Simple and Satisfying Option
Sausage and gravy can be served on open-faced sandwiches, providing a quick and easy meal. Toast or grilled bread serves as the base, topped with a generous helping of sausage and gravy. Add a fried egg for an extra layer of richness and flavor. This is a great way to use leftover sausage and gravy, transforming it into a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Pasta: An Unexpected but Delicious Pairing
Don’t underestimate the power of sausage and gravy with pasta. While it might seem unconventional, the creamy gravy coats the pasta beautifully, creating a rich and flavorful dish. Penne, rotini, or even fettuccine work well. Consider adding some sauteed vegetables, such as mushrooms or onions, to enhance the flavor profile.
Vegetable Companions: Adding Freshness and Balance
The richness of sausage and gravy benefits from the addition of fresh vegetables, providing a welcome contrast in both flavor and texture.
Green Beans: A Classic Side Dish
Green beans, whether steamed, sauteed, or roasted, are a classic side dish that pairs well with sausage and gravy. Their slightly sweet and earthy flavor complements the savory richness of the gravy. Consider adding a touch of garlic or lemon juice to brighten up the flavor.
Broccoli: A Nutritious Addition
Broccoli, steamed or roasted until tender-crisp, provides a nutritious and flavorful addition to a sausage and gravy meal. Its slightly bitter flavor helps to cut through the richness of the gravy. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese adds a salty and savory element.
Spinach: A Versatile Green
Spinach, whether fresh or sauteed, offers a mild flavor and a boost of nutrients. It can be added directly to the sausage and gravy, or served as a side dish. Consider wilting spinach with garlic and olive oil for a simple and flavorful accompaniment.
Flavor Enhancers: Taking It to the Next Level
Sometimes, all you need is a little something extra to elevate your sausage and gravy meal.
Hot Sauce: A Spicy Kick
A dash of hot sauce adds a welcome kick to sausage and gravy, cutting through the richness and adding a layer of complexity. Choose your favorite hot sauce, depending on your preferred level of heat and flavor. A vinegar-based hot sauce works particularly well.
Chives or Green Onions: A Fresh Garnish
Chopped chives or green onions add a touch of freshness and vibrancy to sausage and gravy. Their mild onion flavor complements the savory richness of the gravy. Simply sprinkle them on top before serving.
Cheese: A Decadent Addition
A sprinkle of cheese adds a layer of richness and flavor to sausage and gravy. Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese work well. The cheese melts into the gravy, creating a creamy and decadent experience.
Sweet Contrasts: Balancing the Savory
While savory pairings are the norm, a touch of sweetness can provide a delightful contrast to the richness of sausage and gravy.
Applesauce: A Classic Combination
Applesauce, with its sweet and slightly tart flavor, is a classic accompaniment to pork dishes, and sausage and gravy are no exception. The sweetness of the applesauce cuts through the richness of the gravy, providing a balanced and satisfying meal.
Maple Syrup: A Breakfast Staple
A drizzle of maple syrup on your biscuits or potatoes adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors of sausage and gravy. This combination is especially popular at breakfast time, providing a sweet and savory start to the day.
Beverage Pairings: Completing the Experience
The right beverage can enhance your enjoyment of sausage and gravy.
Coffee: A Morning Essential
For breakfast, a hot cup of coffee is the perfect accompaniment to sausage and gravy. The bitterness of the coffee cuts through the richness of the gravy, cleansing the palate and preparing you for the next bite.
Iced Tea: A Southern Staple
For lunch or dinner, a glass of iced tea, especially sweet tea, is a refreshing and classic Southern beverage that pairs well with sausage and gravy. The sweetness of the tea provides a contrast to the savory flavors of the meal.
Beer: A Savory Choice
For a more substantial beverage pairing, consider a beer that complements the savory flavors of sausage and gravy. A light lager or a pale ale can work well, providing a refreshing and crisp contrast to the richness of the meal.
In conclusion, the possibilities for pairings with sausage and gravy are vast and varied. Whether you prefer classic breakfast combinations, savory lunch and dinner options, or a touch of sweetness, there’s a perfect pairing out there for everyone. Experiment with different flavors and textures to discover your own favorite combinations and elevate your sausage and gravy experience to new heights. Remember, the key is to create a balance of flavors and textures that complement and enhance the overall dining experience. So, go ahead, get creative and enjoy the delicious world of sausage and gravy pairings!
What is the most classic side dish to serve with sausage and gravy?
The undisputed champion of sausage and gravy accompaniments is biscuits. Fluffy, buttery biscuits provide the perfect vehicle for soaking up the rich, savory gravy. The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of a good biscuit complements the spice and heartiness of the sausage and gravy beautifully, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Think of the biscuits as a blank canvas, allowing the sausage and gravy to shine as the star. You can use homemade biscuits, store-bought varieties, or even canned biscuit dough, but be sure to bake them until golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside while remaining soft and tender inside for the ultimate textural contrast.
Are there any vegetable side dishes that pair well with sausage and gravy?
Absolutely! While sausage and gravy is rich, adding a fresh vegetable side dish can balance the meal and add valuable nutrients. Steamed green beans with a touch of butter and salt offer a simple and clean counterpoint. The slight bitterness of the green beans cuts through the richness of the gravy, providing a refreshing element.
Another excellent option is sauteed spinach with garlic. The earthy flavor of spinach pairs well with the savory sausage, and the garlic adds another layer of complexity. These vegetable options not only enhance the flavor profile of the meal but also contribute to a more balanced and nutritious dining experience.
Can you suggest a breakfast item besides biscuits that works well with sausage and gravy?
Beyond biscuits, consider serving sausage and gravy with golden-brown hash browns. The crispy exterior and soft, starchy interior of hash browns provide a delightful textural contrast to the smooth, creamy gravy. Their mild flavor also allows the sausage and gravy to remain the focal point of the dish, while adding a satisfying carbohydrate element.
Another fantastic breakfast accompaniment is toast. Whether it’s white, wheat, or sourdough, toasted bread offers a crispy base for soaking up the flavorful gravy. The simple crunch and subtle flavor of toast complement the richness of the sausage and gravy without overpowering it. For an extra touch, try buttering the toast lightly before topping it with the gravy.
What are some creative additions to the sausage and gravy itself?
For those looking to elevate their sausage and gravy, consider adding a touch of heat. A dash of hot sauce, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a pleasant kick that complements the savory flavors. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preferred level of spiciness to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.
Another creative addition is incorporating mushrooms. Sautéed mushrooms, such as cremini or button mushrooms, can add an earthy and savory element to the gravy. Their umami flavor enhances the overall richness and complexity of the dish. Simply sauté the mushrooms before adding the sausage and flour to create a delicious and nuanced gravy.
What kind of sausage is best for making sausage and gravy?
The most traditional and arguably the best sausage for making sausage and gravy is breakfast sausage. This type of sausage is typically made from ground pork seasoned with sage, pepper, and other spices that complement the creamy gravy perfectly. Its slightly sweet and savory flavor profile is what makes sausage and gravy such a classic dish.
However, you can also experiment with other types of sausage to create different flavor profiles. Italian sausage, for example, will add a spicier and more robust flavor to the gravy. Chorizo will introduce a smoky and vibrant element. Ultimately, the best sausage for your gravy depends on your personal preferences and desired level of spice and flavor.
Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of sausage and gravy?
Yes, it’s definitely possible to create a delicious vegetarian version of sausage and gravy! The key is to use a high-quality vegetarian sausage substitute that mimics the flavor and texture of traditional pork sausage. There are many plant-based sausage options available in grocery stores, made from ingredients like soy, pea protein, or mushrooms. Choose one that you enjoy the taste of on its own.
To create the gravy, simply follow the same steps as you would for a traditional sausage gravy, substituting the vegetarian sausage for the pork sausage. You may also want to add some extra herbs and spices, such as sage, thyme, or rosemary, to enhance the savory flavor of the gravy. Served over biscuits, toast, or hash browns, vegetarian sausage and gravy can be just as satisfying and comforting as the original.
Can sausage and gravy be prepared in advance?
Yes, sausage and gravy can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient option for meal prepping or entertaining. The gravy can be made a day or two ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the gravy over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through.
Keep in mind that the gravy may thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a little milk or broth to thin it out before reheating. For best results, prepare the biscuits or other accompaniments fresh. However, you can also bake the biscuits ahead of time and reheat them briefly in the oven or microwave before serving to maintain their warmth and freshness.