Easy Gravy Recipe Vegetarian Options for Flavorful Meal

Gravy is often the unsung hero of a meal, adding richness, moisture, and a burst of flavor to even the simplest dishes. But traditional gravies often rely on meat drippings or animal-based broths, making them unsuitable for vegetarians and vegans.

If you’ve been searching for an easy, delicious, and completely vegetarian gravy recipe, your search ends here! This recipe uses wholesome ingredients that come together quickly to create a savory, luscious gravy perfect for holiday dinners, everyday meals, or when you just want to elevate your mashed potatoes or roasted veggies.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just experimenting with plant-based cooking, this gravy is sure to become a staple. It’s free from complicated steps, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

Plus, it pairs amazingly well with many dishes, including some of my favorite vegan recipes like the Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade or the Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals.

Ready to learn how to make this comforting and flavorful vegetarian gravy? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy vegetarian gravy recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to add a rich, savory touch to their meals without relying on animal products. It’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking less than 20 minutes from start to finish.

The gravy has a deep umami flavor thanks to simple ingredients like mushrooms and soy sauce that mimic the depth and complexity of traditional meat gravies.

Not only is this gravy delicious, but it’s also versatile. Use it to drizzle over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, vegan meatloaf, or even as a dipping sauce.

It’s gluten-free if you swap in your favorite gluten-free flour, and you can adjust the seasoning to make it as bold or mild as you like.

Plus, it’s a perfect companion to many vegetarian and vegan dishes. For example, try pairing it with a hearty Vegan Cuban Recipes: Delicious Plant-Based Island Flavor or some wholesome grains and veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Medium saucepan or skillet
• Wooden spoon or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife
• Fine mesh strainer (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Stir in the chopped mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes. The mushrooms will release their moisture and start to brown, contributing to the rich flavor of the gravy.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir continuously for 2 minutes. This step helps to cook out the raw flour taste and creates a roux that will thicken the gravy.
5. Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, making sure to break up any lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture comes to a gentle boil and starts to thicken.
6. Add the soy sauce, nutritional yeast, dried thyme, and ground black pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
7. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the gravy for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the gravy to thicken to your desired consistency.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and more pepper if needed. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to thin it out.
9. Optional: For a smoother gravy, you can strain it through a fine mesh strainer or blend it briefly with an immersion blender.
10. Serve hot over your favorite dishes and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Tip: Always cook the flour thoroughly in the roux stage to avoid a raw flour taste. Stir continuously and be patient!

Variation: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (use 1.5 tablespoons mixed with cold water as a slurry added at the end).

Enhance the flavor: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of tomato paste for extra depth. You can also toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for a seasonal twist.

Make it smoky: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke for a smoky note that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or vegan meatloaf.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and based on 6 servings.

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian gravy is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of dishes. Pour it over classic mashed potatoes for a comforting side, or drizzle it on roasted cauliflower, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a flavorful upgrade.

It’s also a fantastic addition to plant-based main dishes such as lentil loaf, vegan meatballs, or grain bowls. If you’re looking for inspiration, try serving it alongside the Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals or as a rich topping for the Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade.

The gravy adds moisture and a savory punch that complements these dishes beautifully.

Conclusion

This easy vegetarian gravy recipe is a must-have in any plant-based kitchen. It brings the comforting, savory flavors of traditional gravy without any animal products, making it perfect for vegetarians and vegans alike.

The recipe is simple, quick, and uses everyday ingredients that you probably already have on hand.

What’s more, this gravy is highly adaptable—whether you want it gluten-free, smoky, or herbaceous, it can be tailored to your taste. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your meals and add a touch of homemade goodness to every bite.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on the blog like the Vegan Cuban Recipes: Delicious Plant-Based Island Flavor for more plant-based inspiration.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the rich, savory satisfaction that only a well-made gravy can provide. Happy cooking!

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