Dried beef gravy is a classic comfort food staple that’s creamy, savory, and perfect for serving over biscuits, toast, or mashed potatoes. If you’ve ever wondered how to make dried beef gravy from scratch, you’re in the right place. This article will walk you through an easy, foolproof recipe and share tips to get that rich, velvety texture and bold flavor every time.
What Is Dried Beef Gravy?
Dried beef gravy is a creamy sauce made with thin slices of dried beef, butter, flour, and milk. The dried beef adds a salty, smoky flavor that makes this gravy a nostalgic favorite, often called “chipped beef gravy” or “SOS” (a military nickname). It’s hearty, quick to prepare, and perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make dried beef gravy, gather these simple ingredients:
– Dried beef: About 4 ounces (two 2-ounce packages or jars). If using jarred dried beef, rinsing can reduce saltiness.
– Butter: 4 tablespoons to create the roux base.
– All-purpose flour: 4 tablespoons to thicken the gravy.
– Milk: 2 cups, preferably whole milk for creaminess, but 2% works well too.
– Salt and pepper: To taste, but be careful with salt since dried beef is salty.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Dried Beef Gravy
1. Prepare the Dried Beef
Start by cutting your dried beef into small, bite-sized pieces—about half an inch squares. If your dried beef is jarred and salty, rinse it under cold water and pat dry to tone down the saltiness. This step is optional if you’re using less salty deli-style dried beef.
2. Brown the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the dried beef. Fry it for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the edges start to brown and the beef warms through. If the beef is very lean, add a teaspoon of butter or oil to prevent sticking.
3. Make the Roux
Add the butter to the skillet with the browned beef. Once melted and foamy, sprinkle the flour evenly over the mixture. Stir constantly to combine the flour and butter into a paste that coats the beef. Cook this roux for a couple of minutes until it just begins to turn golden—this cooks out the raw flour taste and adds depth to the gravy.
4. Add the Milk Gradually
Slowly pour in the milk, about half a cup at a time, while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring as the milk heats and combines with the roux. The mixture will start to thicken after a few minutes. Keep stirring until the gravy coats the back of a spoon and leaves a clean trail when you run your finger through it.
5. Season and Taste
Since dried beef is naturally salty, taste your gravy before adding any extra salt. Add freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor. Adjust seasoning as needed, but usually, no additional salt is necessary.
6. Serve Warm
Serve your dried beef gravy hot over warm biscuits, toast, or even fried potatoes. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting snack.
Tips for Perfect Dried Beef Gravy
– Rinse jarred dried beef if too salty: This simple step can make a big difference in balancing the flavor.
– Use whole milk for creaminess: It gives the gravy a richer texture, but 2% milk works fine too.
– Don’t skip browning the beef: It adds flavor and texture to the gravy.
– Stir constantly when adding milk: This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth sauce.
– Adjust thickness: If your gravy is too thick, add a splash of milk. If too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.
Variations to Try
– Add sautéed onions or garlic for extra flavor.
– Use cream instead of milk for an even richer gravy.
– Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.
– Serve over mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a delicious twist.
Dried beef gravy is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a touch of nostalgia and comfort to your table. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this creamy, savory gravy that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Enjoy your homemade dried beef gravy!