SAUSAGE GRAVY Meaning and
Definition
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Sausage gravy refers to a thick and savory white sauce that is commonly used in American cuisine. It is primarily made by combining crumbled, cooked sausage with a roux-based gravy. The dish typically incorporates basic ingredients such as pork sausage, flour, milk or cream, and seasonings.
To prepare sausage gravy, ground or finely chopped pork sausage is first cooked until browned and crumbled. The rendered fat from the cooked sausage is then used to make a roux, a mixture of fat and flour that serves as the base of the sauce. Flour is added to the sausage fat and cooked until it turns golden, resulting in a thickening agent for the gravy.
Once the roux has reached the adequate consistency, milk or cream is gradually incorporated into the mixture, while continuously stirring to prevent lumps from forming. As the gravy simmers, it thickens due to the starch in the flour and reaches a velvety texture. Additionally, seasonings such as salt, black pepper, and sometimes herbs may be added to enhance the flavor profile.
Sausage gravy is commonly served over biscuits in a popular American dish called biscuits and gravy. It adds a rich, decadent, and slightly spicy element to the flaky biscuits, creating a hearty and satisfying breakfast or brunch option. It is worth noting that sausage gravy variations exist, including the use of alternative sausages, such as turkey or chicken, for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.
Etymology of SAUSAGE GRAVY
The etymology of the term "sausage gravy" can be analyzed by examining the origins of its components separately.
1. Sausage: The word "sausage" originates from the Latin word "salsus", which means "salted". This later evolved into the Old French term "sausse", then into the Middle English word "sausige", finally becoming "sausage" in modern English. The name refers to a seasoned mixture of ground meat, typically pork, packed into a casing.
2. Gravy: The term "gravy" is derived from the Old French word "grave", which means "sand" in reference to the granular texture of the sauce. It has its roots in Latin with the word "granum", meaning "grain".
