Dairy or not: the ultimate answer to the biscuits and gravy dairy question

Biscuits and gravy, a classic Southern comfort food, is a beloved dish for many. But for those with dairy sensitivities or allergies, the question of whether biscuits and gravy contain dairy is of utmost importance. This blog post will delve into the dairy content of biscuits and gravy, examining the ingredients commonly used and providing guidance for dairy-free alternatives.

Ingredients Commonly Used in Biscuits and Gravy

Biscuits

Traditional biscuit recipes typically include:

• Flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Butter or shortening
• Milk or buttermilk

Gravy

Gravy for biscuits is usually made with:

• Butter or bacon drippings
• Flour
• Milk or cream
• Salt and pepper

Does Biscuits and Gravy Have Dairy?

Yes, traditional biscuits and gravy recipes contain dairy in the form of:

• Butter or shortening: Used in the biscuits to create a flaky texture.
• Milk or buttermilk: Used in the biscuits to make them tender and moist.
• Milk or cream: Used in the gravy to create a smooth and creamy sauce.

Dairy-Free Alternatives for Biscuits and Gravy

For those who cannot tolerate dairy, there are several dairy-free alternatives available:

Biscuits

• Dairy-free butter or shortening: Look for plant-based options made from coconut oil or vegetable oils.
• Dairy-free milk: Use almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk as a substitute for milk or buttermilk.

Gravy

• Dairy-free butter or bacon drippings: Use plant-based alternatives as mentioned above.
• Dairy-free milk: Use almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk instead of milk or cream.
• Dairy-free thickener: Use cornstarch or arrowroot powder to thicken the gravy instead of flour.

How to Make Dairy-Free Biscuits and Gravy

Dairy-Free Biscuits

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup dairy-free butter or shortening
• 1 cup dairy-free milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cut in the dairy-free butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add the dairy-free milk and stir until just combined.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead a few times.
6. Roll out the dough to a thickness of 1/2 inch.
7. Cut out biscuits with a 2-inch biscuit cutter.
8. Place the biscuits on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.

Dairy-Free Gravy

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons dairy-free butter or bacon drippings
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups dairy-free milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Melt the dairy-free butter or bacon drippings in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in the dairy-free milk until smooth.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Other Dairy-Free Substitutions

In addition to the above alternatives, you can also try:

• Dairy-free cheese: Use vegan cheese shreds or slices for a cheesy flavor.
• Dairy-free sour cream: Use plant-based sour cream as a topping for biscuits.

Tips for Making Dairy-Free Biscuits and Gravy

• Use unsweetened dairy-free milk to avoid excessive sweetness.
• If the gravy is too thick, add more dairy-free milk.
• If the gravy is too thin, add more dairy-free thickener.
• Serve the biscuits and gravy while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts: Enjoying Biscuits and Gravy Without Dairy

With a few simple substitutions, it is possible to enjoy the classic comfort food of biscuits and gravy without sacrificing flavor or texture. Whether you are dairy-free by choice or by necessity, these dairy-free alternatives will allow you to indulge in this Southern delicacy.

What People Want to Know

Q: Can I use regular milk in dairy-free biscuits and gravy?
A: No, using regular milk will introduce dairy into the dish.

Q: What is a good dairy-free thickener for gravy?
A: Cornstarch or arrowroot powder are both excellent dairy-free thickeners.

Q: Can I make dairy-free biscuits and gravy ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the biscuits and gravy separately and reheat them when ready to serve.

Q: How long will dairy-free biscuits and gravy last in the refrigerator?
A: They will last for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Q: Can I freeze dairy-free biscuits and gravy?
A: Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months in an airtight container.