This Southern tomato gravy is a flavorful and comforting sauce that pairs perfectly with biscuits, rice, or fried chicken. Made with fresh tomatoes, onions, and spices, it brings a taste of the South to your table.
The recipe is simple and quick, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight meal or a special brunch. You can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
Understanding Southern Tomato Gravy
Southern tomato gravy is a beloved staple in Southern cuisine, known for its rich flavors and comforting texture. This sauce is a delightful blend of ripe tomatoes, onions, and spices, creating a savory experience that pairs wonderfully with biscuits, rice, or fried chicken.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a warm bowl of tomato gravy in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely brunch with friends and family.
Ingredients That Shine
The key to a delicious Southern tomato gravy starts with fresh, ripe tomatoes. Their natural sweetness and acidity provide the perfect base for the sauce.
Along with tomatoes, finely chopped onions add depth and flavor. A touch of butter creates a rich mouthfeel, while flour helps thicken the gravy. Chicken or vegetable broth enhances the savory notes, and a pinch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Optional seasonings like garlic powder and dried basil can elevate the flavor profile, while fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness when garnished on top.
Cooking Process Made Simple
Preparing Southern tomato gravy is straightforward. Start by sautéing onions in melted butter until they become translucent. This step releases their natural sweetness, forming a flavorful base.
Next, add the chopped tomatoes and let them cook down until they soften. This is where the magic happens, as the tomatoes release their juices and meld with the onions.
After creating a roux with flour, gradually stir in the broth, ensuring a smooth consistency. Seasoning is crucial at this stage; taste and adjust to your preference for a well-balanced gravy.
Serving Suggestions
Southern tomato gravy is incredibly versatile. While it’s traditionally served over flaky biscuits, it can also complement a variety of dishes. Pour it over rice for a comforting meal or drizzle it over fried chicken for a Southern twist.
For a complete experience, serve the gravy hot, garnished with fresh parsley. This not only adds a vibrant touch but also enhances the overall flavor.
Creating a Cozy Meal Setting
The presentation of Southern tomato gravy can elevate the dining experience. Imagine a rustic wooden table adorned with a warm bowl of gravy, flaky biscuits, and a small bowl of extra gravy on the side.
This inviting setup encourages sharing and brings a sense of comfort to the table. The vibrant red tomato chunks against the golden biscuits create a visually appealing dish that is sure to please.
Nutrition and Serving Size
For those mindful of nutrition, Southern tomato gravy is relatively light, with approximately 150 calories per serving. It contains a modest amount of fat and carbohydrates, making it a satisfying addition to your meal without being overly indulgent.
With four servings per recipe, it’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner for two, ensuring everyone can enjoy a taste of Southern comfort.
Easy Southern Tomato Gravy Recipe
This tomato gravy features ripe tomatoes cooked down with onions and seasonings to create a rich, savory sauce. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes until they start to break down.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the tomato mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Broth: Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer.
- Season: Add sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried basil if using. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot over biscuits, rice, or your favorite dish.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 20g