Grandy’s is a well-loved chain, known for its comforting, home-style meals, including its gravy and batter fries. While the exact recipes they use are not publicly available, I can share recipes that aim to recreate these delicious dishes. Here’s how you can make Gravy and Batter Fries at home inspired by Grandy’s.
Gravy (Inspired by Grandy’s) Recipe:
This rich, creamy gravy is a perfect companion to mashed potatoes, fried chicken, or biscuits. Grandy’s gravy has a smooth consistency with a slightly peppery taste.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or beef broth for a deeper flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
- Make the Roux:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk continuously to create a smooth paste. This mixture is called a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until the flour begins to bubble and slightly brown. Be careful not to burn it.
- Add Liquids:
- Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Keep whisking until the gravy begins to thicken, about 4-5 minutes.
- Season:
- Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You can add more pepper if you like it a bit spicier.
- Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the gravy reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, you can thin it with a little more milk or broth.
- Serve:
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, chicken fried steak, biscuits, or anything else that could use a comforting gravy topping.
Batter Fries (Inspired by Grandy’s) Recipe:
Grandy’s batter fries are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and coated with a flavorful batter. They make the perfect side dish to accompany your fried chicken or burgers.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cold water (or more as needed to achieve batter consistency)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into fries. To make thicker fries, cut them wider, or for thinner fries, slice them more finely.
- Soak the potato fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps them crisp up better when fried.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Gradually add the cold water and whisk until you get a smooth batter. The batter should be thick enough to coat the fries but not too runny. Adjust the water as needed.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a deep fryer or large pot, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You’ll need enough oil to fully submerge the fries.
- Coat the Fries:
- Drain the soaked potato fries and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Dip each fry into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Fry the Fries:
- Carefully drop the battered fries into the hot oil in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry the fries for 4-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fries from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve the batter fries immediately with a sprinkle of salt, and pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or the homemade gravy.
Tips for Success:
- For Crispier Fries: Double fry the battered fries for extra crunch. After the first fry, let the fries cool for a few minutes, then fry them again for 1-2 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Adjust the Batter: If the batter is too thick, add a little more cold water; if too thin, add a little more flour to thicken it.
- Gravy Variations: For a more robust flavor, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of dried thyme to the gravy.
These Gravy and Batter Fries recipes will give you a great version of the comfort food you loved from Grandy’s. Enjoy the crispy fries with the rich, creamy gravy for a truly indulgent meal!
