Tomato gravy is the perfect way to dress up a simple meal of biscuits or rice. A combination of fresh tomatoes, bacon, and a touch of cream makes the recipe below the ideal comfort food recipe. While this gravy is best when made with fresh, ripe tomatoes, if they're out of season, choose good-quality canned tomatoes instead to make sure your gravy is bursting with rich tomato flavor.
Cook the bacon in a high-sided pan (like a Dutch oven) until crisp. Remove the bacon and set aside. Pour off the grease and measure it, then add enough melted butter to reach 1/4 cup of fat.
Return the fat to the Dutch oven and add the flour. Whisk together until the mixture forms a paste and the flour begins to smell a bit nutty. Add about half of the chicken stock and whisk well until fully incorporated. Add the remaining chicken stock and whisk well to combine once more.
Whisk in the tomato paste, followed by the heavy cream. When the sauce is smooth, add the tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper, and cook an additional 5-10 minutes, until the gravy takes on a thick, creamy consistency.
Chop the bacon and add it to the gravy. Serve immediately over rice, mashed potatoes, or biscuits.
