Tomato gravey cooked in cast iron skillet

Tomato gravy is a versatile and flavorful sauce that pairs well with biscuits, rice, meats, or vegetables. Cooking it in a cast iron skillet adds a rustic touch and enhances the depth of flavor. Here’s how to make delicious tomato gravy:

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Chop Onions and Garlic:
   • Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Cook the Base

2. Melt Butter:
   • Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
   • Add the chopped onions to the skillet and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Roux

4. Add Flour:
   • Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic. Stir continuously to form a roux, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden color.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Tomatoes

5. Add Crushed Tomatoes:
   • Slowly add the crushed tomatoes to the roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Add Broth:
   • Gradually pour in the chicken broth, continuing to stir until the mixture is smooth.
7. Add Milk or Cream:
   • Stir in the milk or heavy cream, blending everything together.

Step 5: Season and Simmer

8. Season the Gravy:
   • Add sugar (if using), salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
9. Simmer:
   • Reduce the heat to low and let the gravy simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve

10. Garnish and Serve:
    • Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Tips:

• Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, add a bit more broth or milk to reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.
• Flavor Balance: Adjust the sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. If you prefer a tangier gravy, you can reduce or omit the sugar.
• Add-ins: For additional flavor, you can add cooked bacon pieces, sausage, or bell peppers.

This tomato gravy is rich, creamy, and full of flavor, making it a perfect accompaniment to many dishes. Enjoy!