Vegan gravy is a flavorful sauce made without any animal products, making it suitable for those following a plant-based or vegan diet. It uses vegetable broth, herbs, and seasonings to create a rich and savory sauce that can be used as a topping or accompaniment for various dishes.

Vegan gravy is a rich and savory sauce that can be used to top a variety of dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or vegan meatloaf. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned plant-based chef, adding homemade vegan gravy to your culinary repertoire can enhance the taste and enjoyment of your meals.

TIPS

Use quality vegetable broth: The flavor of your gravy largely depends on the quality of your vegetable broth. Choose a flavorful vegetable broth or make your own at home using fresh vegetables and herbs.
Add herbs and seasonings: Herbs and seasonings are key to adding depth and complexity to your vegan gravy. Consider adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, sage, or bay leaves, as well as seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to enhance the flavor of your gravy.
Use a roux or cornstarch slurry: To thicken your gravy, you can use a roux (a mixture of flour and fat) or a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and water). Cook the roux or cornstarch slurry in a pan before adding your vegetable broth to create a smooth and thick gravy.
Add umami-rich ingredients: Umami is known as the “fifth taste” and can add a savory, meaty flavor to your vegan gravy. Consider adding ingredients like soy sauce, miso paste, nutritional yeast, or tomato paste to enhance the umami taste of your gravy.
Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste your gravy as you go and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You may need to add more salt, pepper, herbs, or other seasonings to achieve the desired flavor.
Strain for a smoother texture: If you prefer a smooth texture, you can strain your vegan gravy after cooking to remove any solids or lumps. This can result in a silky, refined gravy that’s perfect for topping mashed potatoes or other dishes.
Experiment with different variations: Vegan gravy can be versatile, and you can experiment with different variations by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or other flavorings to create a gravy that suits your taste preferences. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try new combinations of ingredients to make your vegan gravy unique and delicious.

Remember to always check the consistency and seasoning of your vegan gravy as you cook, and adjust as needed to achieve the desired flavor and texture.

SEASONING OPTIONS

Thyme: Thyme is a popular herb that adds a warm, earthy flavor to gravy. It pairs well with mushrooms and other savory ingredients, adding depth and complexity to the overall taste.
Rosemary: Rosemary has a distinct pine-like flavor that can add a fragrant and aromatic note to your vegan gravy. It works well with roasted vegetables, potatoes, and other hearty ingredients.
Sage: Sage has a slightly bitter, savory taste that can add a robust flavor to your gravy. It’s commonly used in traditional Thanksgiving recipes, but it can also be a great addition to vegan gravy, particularly when paired with mushrooms or lentils.
Bay leaves: Bay leaves are known for their subtle, woodsy flavor that can infuse your gravy with a delicate aroma. Simply add a bay leaf or two while simmering your gravy and remove them before serving.
Garlic powder: Garlic powder can add a pungent, savory taste to your vegan gravy without the need for fresh garlic. It’s easy to use and can add depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile.
Onion powder: Onion powder can add a slightly sweet, savory taste to your vegan gravy. It works well with other herbs and seasonings, and can add depth to the overall flavor.
Black pepper: Black pepper can add a bold and spicy kick to your gravy, adding warmth and depth to the overall taste. Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
Paprika: Paprika can add a smoky, sweet flavor to your vegan gravy. It’s particularly great in gravies with a barbecue or smoky flavor profile.
Nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast is a popular ingredient in vegan cooking, known for its cheesy, umami flavor. It can add a savory, cheesy note to your gravy, particularly if you’re looking for a richer, more robust flavor.
Soy sauce or tamari: Soy sauce or tamari can add a salty, savory taste to your vegan gravy, providing a depth of flavor that can enhance the overall umami profile.

SERVING OPTIONS

Mashed potatoes: Vegan gravy is a classic topping for mashed potatoes, adding a rich and savory flavor to the creamy potatoes.
Roasted or mashed vegetables: Drizzle your vegan gravy over roasted vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower, to add extra flavor and moisture.
Veggie meatballs or patties: Pour vegan gravy over veggie meatballs or chickpea meatballs for a delicious and comforting meal. It can add a savory, saucy element to your plant-based protein.
Vegan meatloaf: Serve vegan gravy as a rich and flavorful sauce alongside a slice of vegan meatloaf for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Biscuits: Serve vegan gravy over warm, fluffy biscuits for a satisfying and comforting breakfast or brunch option.
Poutine: Poutine is a Canadian dish that typically consists of fries topped with cheese curds and covered in gravy. You can make a vegan version by using plant-based cheese and pouring your vegan gravy over crispy fries.
Shepherd’s pie: Use vegan gravy as a flavorful base for a plant-based shepherd’s pie, layered with lentils, vegetables, and mashed potatoes.
Veggie burgers: Pour vegan gravy over a homemade or store-bought veggie burger for a juicy and flavorful addition to your burger.
Tofu or tempeh: Coat tofu or tempeh with vegan gravy and bake or pan-fry for a tasty and protein-rich main dish.
Vegan roast: Pour vegan gravy over a vegan roast, such as a lentil loaf or a seitan roast, to add flavor and moisture to the dish.
Sandwiches: Use vegan gravy as a sauce or spread in sandwiches, wraps, or burgers for a delicious and savory addition. Use vegan gravy as a savory sauce on open-faced sandwiches.
Baked potatoes: Pour vegan gravy over baked potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal. Top with vegan cheese, chives, or other desired toppings for added flavor.
Rice or quinoa: Serve vegan gravy over cooked rice or quinoa for a simple and comforting dish. Add steamed vegetables or roasted veggies for a well-rounded meal.
Vegan hot dogs or sausages: Use vegan gravy as a topping for your favorite plant-based hot dogs or sausages for a delicious and indulgent treat.
Mashed cauliflower: Pour vegan gravy over creamy mashed cauliflower for a low-carb and flavorful side dish.
Tater tots or fries: Drizzle vegan gravy over crispy tater tots or fries for a tasty and satisfying appetizer or snack.
Vegan poutine: Create a vegan version of the popular Canadian dish, poutine, by topping fries with vegan cheese curds and pouring hot vegan gravy over them.
Stuffed bell peppers: Fill bell peppers with a mixture of grains, beans, and vegetables, and top with vegan gravy for a flavorful and wholesome meal.
Rice, grain or Buddha bowls: Build a nourishing Buddha bowl with a variety of cooked and raw veggies, grains, and proteins, and drizzle vegan gravy over the top for a delicious and satisfying meal in a bowl.
Vegan pot pies: Use vegan gravy as a base for a plant-based pot pie, filled with vegetables, tofu, or tempeh, and topped with puff pastry or mashed potatoes.
Veggie bowls: Combine roasted or steamed vegetables, legumes, and grains in a bowl, and finish with a generous drizzle of vegan gravy for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Vegan lasagna: Layer vegan gravy with plant-based cheese, noodles, and vegetables to create a delicious and comforting vegan lasagna.
Vegan breakfast: Pour vegan gravy over vegan biscuits, tofu scramble, or breakfast potatoes for a hearty and delicious vegan breakfast or brunch option. Use vegan gravy as a sauce for a delicious and satisfying breakfast sandwich.
Vegan nachos: Drizzle vegan gravy over a plate of loaded vegan nachos, along with plant-based cheese, beans, veggies, and other toppings for a tasty and indulgent snack or appetizer.
Thanksgiving dinner: Vegan gravy is a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving feast, serving it alongside your favorite plant-based holiday dishes like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and roasted vegetables.

STORAGE

Refrigerator: Transfer it to an airtight container or a covered bowl and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent air exposure, which can cause the gravy to spoil or absorb odors from the refrigerator.

Freezer: If you have leftover vegan gravy that you want to freeze, transfer it to a resealable freezer-safe container or freezer bag, and label with the date. Vegan gravy can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. However, note that the texture of the gravy may change slightly after freezing and thawing, so it’s best to use it within the recommended time frame for optimal taste and quality.

To reheat: To enjoy frozen vegan gravy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching, or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

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Ingredients

2 cups cups of vegetable broth
¼ cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy)
2 tablespoons vegan butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
1 tablespoon coconut amino, tamari, or soy sauce (optional)
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions

In a small saucepan, melt the vegan butter over medium heat.
Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
Add the non-dairy milk, nutritional yeast, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If adding the options whisk together the coconut amino, tamari, or soy sauce and Dijon mustard, then add to the gravy.
Continue to whisk until the gravy is smooth and heated through.
Serve hot.