Award Winning Vegetarian Turkey Gravy Recipe Made Easy

Thanksgiving and holiday dinners often center around the star of the show: turkey. But for vegetarians, creating a flavorful and satisfying gravy that complements the meal without the traditional meat drippings can be a challenge.

Enter our award-winning vegetarian turkey gravy recipe—a rich, savory, and deeply comforting sauce that stands tall alongside any holiday feast. Crafted with wholesome, plant-based ingredients and a secret blend of herbs and umami boosters, this gravy delivers the perfect balance of taste and texture.

Whether you’re hosting a vegetarian holiday meal or simply looking to add a delicious twist to your gravy repertoire, this recipe is designed to impress. It’s easy to prepare, uses common pantry staples, and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, stuffing, and even the famous roasted vegetables.

Plus, it’s so good that even meat-eaters will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian turkey gravy recipe is a game-changer for anyone seeking a hearty, flavorful sauce without relying on meat or broth. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Rich and savory: The combination of mushrooms, herbs, and soy sauce creates a deep umami flavor that mimics traditional turkey gravy beautifully.
• Simple ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples, this recipe is approachable and budget-friendly.
• Versatile and allergen-friendly: Gluten-free options and dairy-free by default, perfect for a variety of dietary needs.
• Award-winning taste: Recognized in vegetarian cooking contests, this gravy stands out for its balanced flavor and silky texture.
• Perfect for holidays: Elevate your festive table with a gravy that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their dietary preference.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
• ½ cup finely chopped celery
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (use gluten-free flour if needed)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning (vegetarian blend)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

Equipment

• Medium-sized saucepan
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Fine mesh strainer (optional, for a smoother gravy)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Blender or immersion blender (optional for extra smooth texture)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add the chopped onion and celery and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Add the finely chopped mushrooms and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become golden brown. This step adds a rich, meaty flavor.
5. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the vegetables and stir well to coat. Cook for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, ensuring a smooth consistency. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
7. Add the soy sauce, nutritional yeast, dried sage, thyme, poultry seasoning, and maple syrup. Stir to combine all the flavors.
8. Simmer the gravy on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to your desired consistency.
9. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
10. Optional: For an ultra-smooth gravy, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture directly in the pot or transfer to a blender in batches. Strain through a fine mesh strainer if desired.
11. Serve warm over mashed potatoes, stuffing, or your favorite holiday sides.

Tips & Variations

“For the best flavor, don’t skip browning the mushrooms thoroughly — it’s what gives this gravy its rich, savory depth!”

• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch (use half the amount and whisk into cold broth before adding).
• Boost umami: Add a splash of vegan Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of miso paste for extra complexity.
• Herb variations: Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can be added at the end for a bright finish.
• Smoky twist: A tiny pinch of smoked paprika adds warmth and depth, perfect for autumn gatherings.
• Make ahead: This gravy keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian turkey gravy is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes:

• Pour over creamy mashed potatoes for that classic holiday comfort.
• Drizzle atop vegetarian stuffing like our German Stuffing Recipe to enhance savory notes.
• Use as a sauce for roasted vegetables or plant-based “turkey” roasts.
• Combine with warm dinner rolls or breads such as the Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe for a delightful dip.
• Serve alongside your favorite vegan mashed root vegetable recipes like sweet potatoes or parsnips.

Conclusion

Creating a delicious vegetarian turkey gravy that rivals traditional versions is easier than you think. This award-winning recipe brings together simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver a rich, flavorful gravy that’s perfect for holiday celebrations or any meal where you crave comfort and warmth.

Its balanced umami depth and silky texture make it a crowd-pleaser for vegetarians and meat lovers alike. Plus, the recipe’s flexibility allows you to tailor it to your dietary needs and flavor preferences.

Next time you’re planning a festive feast, give this vegetarian turkey gravy a try and watch it become an indispensable part of your holiday tradition. For more delightful recipes that complement this gravy, be sure to check out our Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe and the indulgent Glazed Twist Donut Recipe.

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