Cracker Barrel Sawmill Gravy Made of

Sawmill gravy is a beloved staple in Southern cuisine, renowned for its savory flavor and creamy texture. At Cracker Barrel, it’s not just a side; it’s a signature dish that embodies comfort and tradition. This gravy has become an essential complement to many Southern meals, elevating biscuits, fried chicken, and more to delightful culinary experiences.

The origin of sawmill gravy traces back to Southern farms, where it was a practical means to utilize leftover cooking juices. As a celebrated dish at Cracker Barrel, it’s important to understand its ingredients and preparation. Read more about Southern comfort foods in this Fried Cabbage Recipe – A Southern staple to pair with sawmill gravy.

Cracker Barrel’s sawmill gravy is not just a meal; it represents a rich cultural heritage. Each bite evokes the warmth of home-cooked meals shared with family. The significance of this dish in Southern dining cannot be overstated, making it crucial to explore its origins and components.

For an in-depth understanding, check out this guide on How to Pan Sear Salmon – Cooking tips to elevate your Southern meals.

What is Sawmill Gravy?

Historically, sawmill gravy was a resourceful dish for utilizing meat drippings and scraps. Traditionally, it features a simple base of flour, milk, and seasonings, making it easy to prepare and deliciously versatile. It is commonly served over biscuits, fried chicken, or with breakfast items, often varying slightly by region in the South.

• Common pairings include:
  • Biscuits
  • Fried chicken
  • Mashed potatoes
• Regional variations include:
  • Additional spices in Louisiana
  • Use of cream in certain areas

What Makes This Sawmill Gravy So Good

The unique texture and flavor profile of sawmill gravy set it apart from other gravies, like sausage gravy. This distinction lies in its rich, creamy texture coupled with a savory flavor that elevates any meal. Beyond its ingredients, sawmill gravy holds emotional and cultural significance in many Southern homes, often tied to family recipes passed down through generations.

Cracker Barrel Sawmill Gravy Ingredients

The classic ingredients of Cracker Barrel’s sawmill gravy include:

• Sausage (could be pork or turkey)
• Flour for thickening
• Milk (or cream) for texture
• Salt and pepper for seasoning

Understanding the role of each ingredient is essential for achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Substitutes are also available for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this Southern delicacy.

Ingredient Notes

When making sawmill gravy, sourcing quality ingredients can significantly affect the outcome. Recommendations for specific brands include:

• Choose locally sourced sausage for authentic flavor.
• Select fresh milk or cream for a richer gravy.

Tips for achieving the best flavor and texture include continuously stirring during cooking to prevent lumps and ensuring even browning.

How to Make Sawmill Gravy from Scratch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Cracker Barrel-style sawmill gravy from scratch can be simple. Below is a foundational method:

1. Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned.
2. Sprinkle flour over the sausage, stir, and cook for about 2 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps form.
4. Simmer until it thickens, adding salt and pepper to taste.

Follow these cooking tips to provide a better gravy-making experience, such as carefully heating the skillet and creating a roux that forms the base of your gravy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your gravy is perfect, avoid these common errors:

• Overcooking the gravy can lead to a burnt flavor.
• Not achieving the right thickness can result in an unsatisfactory texture.
• Using low-quality sausage will affect the overall taste.

Variations You Will Want to Try

Get creative with your sawmill gravy by trying some of these variations:

• Vegetarian sawmill gravy: Substitute sausage with mushrooms or lentils.
• Spicy version: Add cayenne or garlic powder for a flavorful kick.
• Different meats: Experiment with sausage, bacon, or ham.

What to Serve with Sawmill Gravy

Pair your delicious sawmill gravy with these Southern favorites:

• Biscuits: The traditional choice for smothering gravy.
• Fried chicken: A hearty meal enhanced by creamy gravy.
• Breakfast dishes: Like scrambled eggs or hash browns.

Consider presentation ideas, such as serving it in a gravy boat or drizzling over biscuits for an appealing visual.

How to Store Sawmill Gravy

For optimal freshness, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigerate in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing in small portions.

How to Reheat Sawmill Gravy

To reheat your sawmill gravy without losing flavor or texture, consider these methods:

• Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring regularly.
• Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

Favorite Cracker Barrel Recipes

Explore other popular dishes at Cracker Barrel to create a complete meal at home. Recipes like their signature pancakes and homestyle carrots complement the sawmill gravy beautifully. Find these recipes easily online to enhance your cooking repertoire, such as the Cracker Barrel Biscuits and Gravy recipe.

Popular Gravy and Sauce Recipes

Aside from sawmill gravy, consider trying these famous gravies and sauces:

• Sausage gravy: A breakfast favorite.
• Turkey gravy: Perfect for Thanksgiving.
• White gravy: Great for a variety of dishes.

FAQs

• Q1: What is the difference between sawmill gravy and sausage gravy?
• Q2: Is Cracker Barrel’s sawmill gravy vegetarian?
• Q3: Can you make sawmill gravy without sausage?
• Q4: How do you thicken sawmill gravy?
• Q5: What are common variations of sawmill gravy?