Southern Style Cajun Gravy
Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of this Southern Style Cajun Gravy, reminiscent of the beloved recipe from a popular fast-food franchise. This luscious gravy combines the warmth of spices with the savory taste of chicken broth and a hint of smokiness from paprika. Perfect for drizzling over fried chicken, mashed potatoes, or biscuits, this dish delivers a comforting, lip-smacking experience that's sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, it adds a touch of Southern charm to your meal.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Vegetable oil
1 1/2 tablespoons (none)
All-purpose flour (for roux)
1 1/2 tablespoons (none)
White pepper
1/8 teaspoon (none)
Cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon (optional) (none)
Paprika
1/8 teaspoon (none)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Condensed chicken broth
1 (14 ounce) can (none)
Water
1 3/4 cups (mixed well with 4 1/2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour)
All-purpose flour (for thickening)
4 1/2 tablespoons (none)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Southern Style Cajun Gravy?
It is a rich, savory sauce that combines Cajun spices with chicken broth, inspired by popular fast-food franchise recipes.
What does Southern Style Cajun Gravy taste like?
This gravy has a deep, savory flavor with hints of smokiness from paprika and a subtle heat from white and cayenne pepper.
Is this Cajun gravy recipe spicy?
It has a mild kick due to the white pepper and cayenne, though the spiciness can be adjusted to your preference.
Which fast-food chain is this gravy similar to?
This recipe is designed as a copycat version of the beloved Cajun gravy found at popular Southern-style fast-food chicken chains.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
There are 9 essential ingredients required to make this Southern Style Cajun Gravy.
What type of oil is used for the roux?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to create the base roux.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil?
While vegetable oil is standard, you can use butter or lard for a different flavor profile, though it may change the authenticity of the copycat taste.
Why is flour used twice in the recipe?
One portion of flour is used to create the initial roux, and the second portion is mixed with water to act as a thickening agent later.
What role does white pepper play in this gravy?
White pepper provides a distinct, sharp heat and floral aroma that is characteristic of professional Southern-style gravies.
Is the cayenne pepper mandatory?
No, the 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper is optional and can be omitted if you prefer a milder sauce.
What does paprika add to the recipe?
Paprika adds a hint of smokiness and contributes to the rich, reddish-brown color of the Cajun gravy.
Should I use condensed chicken broth or regular chicken broth?
The recipe specifically calls for condensed chicken broth to ensure a concentrated, deep savory flavor.
How much water is needed for the thickening slurry?
You will need 1 3/4 cups of water to mix with the thickening flour.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is portioned to provide approximately 6 servings.
What is the best way to serve Southern Style Cajun Gravy?
It is best served warm, drizzled over fried chicken, mashed potatoes, or freshly baked biscuits.
Is this gravy suitable for Southern biscuits?
Yes, its rich texture and savory profile make it an excellent topping for warm Southern biscuits.
Can I use this gravy for fried chicken?
Absolutely, this gravy is a classic accompaniment for crispy fried chicken.
How do I prepare the thickening flour?
The 4 1/2 tablespoons of flour should be mixed well with the water before being added to the simmering liquid to prevent lumps.
Can I make this gravy gluten-free?
You can attempt to substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture and thickening power may vary.
What category of food does this recipe belong to?
This recipe is categorized under Sauces.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as a comfort food due to its rich, savory, and satisfying nature.
Can I add extra salt to the gravy?
The recipe includes 1/4 teaspoon of salt, but you should taste the gravy at the end and adjust according to your preference.
How do I store leftover Cajun gravy?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze Southern Style Cajun Gravy?
Yes, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; however, the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
How should I reheat the gravy?
Reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring constantly and adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much in the fridge.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it uses simple pantry staples and straightforward techniques, making it very accessible for home cooks.
What if my gravy is too thick?
If the gravy is too thick, simply whisk in a little extra water or chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
What if my gravy is too thin?
If it is too thin, allow it to simmer for a few more minutes to reduce, or add a small amount of additional flour-water slurry.
Can I use beef broth instead of chicken broth?
While you can, it will significantly change the flavor profile and it will no longer be a traditional Southern Cajun chicken-style gravy.
Does this recipe contain any sugar?
No, this is a strictly savory gravy recipe and does not contain any added sugar.