Best Veg Gravy Recipes for Delicious Homemade Meals

There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of steaming, aromatic vegetable gravy. Whether it’s poured over fluffy rice, spooned onto roti, or enjoyed as a side with bread, a good veg gravy can transform an ordinary meal into a feast.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless recipes, from traditional Indian curries to global-inspired gravies, always seeking that perfect balance of rich flavors and wholesome ingredients.

In this post, I’m sharing my all-time best veg gravy recipes—a medley of classic, crowd-pleasing gravies that are easy to make, full of nutrition, and versatile enough to pair with your favorite sides.

Each gravy boasts a unique flavor profile, from creamy coconut to robust tomato-onion bases, and features a variety of fresh vegetables. Whether you’re a long-time vegetarian or simply craving a meatless meal, these gravies will bring comfort and joy to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Comforting: These gravies are packed with aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and rich, satisfying sauces that appeal to all ages.
• Versatile: Serve with rice, roti, bread, or even as a pasta sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, lunch boxes, or special occasions.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Loaded with seasonal vegetables, plant-based protein, and minimal oil, these recipes fit perfectly into a balanced diet.
• Customizable: Easily adapt to your taste preferences and available ingredients. Swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level as needed.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch for the week ahead. These gravies taste even better the next day, making them ideal for leftovers.
• Perfect for All Diets: Naturally vegetarian, with vegan and gluten-free options provided.

Ingredients

Below, you’ll find a table summarizing the core ingredients for a classic North Indian-style mixed vegetable gravy, along with some optional additions for variety. Adjust vegetable quantities as per your preference and seasonal availability.

Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven
• Chopping board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Blender or food processor (for tomato puree and cashew paste)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Bowl for prepping ingredients
• Optional: Pressure cooker or Instant Pot (for faster cooking)

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step directions for a delicious, restaurant-style vegetable gravy:

1. Prep the vegetables.

   Wash, peel (if needed), and chop your mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces. If using frozen veggies, thaw them beforehand.

2. Make the tomato puree.

   Blend ripe tomatoes into a smooth puree. For a creamier gravy, soak cashews in warm water for 10 minutes and blend into a paste.

   Set both aside.

3. Heat oil and temper spices.

   In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and, if using, whole spices (bay leaf, cinnamon, clove).

   Let them sizzle and release aroma.

4. Sauté onions, ginger, and garlic.

   Add finely chopped onions and green chilies. Cook until onions turn golden brown.

   Stir in ginger-garlic paste, sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

5. Add dry spices.

   Sprinkle in turmeric, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Stir well to coat the onions and release the spice flavors.

6. Add tomato puree.

   Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts separating from the mixture. This step deepens the flavor base.

7. Incorporate vegetables.

   Add chopped mixed vegetables. Stir to combine, ensuring the veggies are coated in the masala.

8. Pour water and simmer.

   Add 1 to 1.5 cups of water (adjust for desired gravy consistency). Season with salt.

   Cover and simmer on medium-low heat until vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

9. Add cashew paste and coconut milk (optional).

   For extra creaminess, stir in the cashew paste and/or coconut milk. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld.

10. Finish with garam masala.

    Sprinkle in garam masala and chopped coriander leaves. Stir, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed.

11. Serve hot.

    Remove from heat and serve the veg gravy piping hot with your choice of rice, roti, bread, or quinoa.

Tips & Variations

“A touch of coconut milk or cashew paste transforms this classic veg gravy into a creamy, restaurant-style delight—perfect for impressing guests!”

• Mix up your veggies: Try zucchini, bell peppers, sweet corn, or mushrooms for a different flavor and texture profile.
• For protein boost: Add cooked chickpeas, kidney beans, paneer cubes, or tofu for extra nutrition and heartiness.
• Make it vegan: Use coconut cream or cashew paste to replace dairy-based cream. Skip paneer or opt for tofu.
• Spice it up: Experiment with smoked paprika, curry leaves, or a dash of fenugreek for a unique twist.
• Pressure cooker/Instant Pot: Save time by pressure cooking the vegetables with spices for 1-2 whistles or 5 minutes on high pressure (manual release).
• Low-calorie version: Use less oil and more tomatoes for a lighter gravy. For more healthy recipes, check out the Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating.
• Batch cooking: Double the gravy and freeze leftovers in airtight containers for quick meals on busy days.
• Regional variations: Try adding curry powder for a British-style curry, or coconut milk and mustard seeds for a South Indian touch. For more global inspiration, explore Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals.

Nutrition Facts

This nutrition estimate is for one serving (about 1 cup) of the basic mixed vegetable gravy, prepared with coconut milk and cashew paste:

Nutrition will vary based on the vegetables, oil, and optional additions used.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic pairing: Serve hot veg gravy over steamed basmati rice or with soft chapati, naan, or paratha.
• With bread: Try with rustic sourdough or a crusty roll—homemade is even better! For fresh bread ideas, see the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.
• With grains: Ladle the gravy over cooked quinoa, millets, or couscous for a wholesome, gluten-free meal.
• Pasta night: Use the gravy as a base for pasta dishes, especially with penne or fusilli. For a creamy pasta sauce alternative, try this Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.
• As a side: Serve alongside grilled tofu, baked potatoes, or as part of a larger Indian thali spread.
• Kids’ favorite: Spoon over soft cooked rice and top with a dollop of plant-based yogurt for a gentle, kid-friendly meal.
• Lunchbox: Pack with chapati and a side salad for a filling, nutritious lunch.

Conclusion

Nothing compares to the warm, inviting flavors of a homemade veg gravy. These recipes are more than just a meal—they’re an experience, bringing together vibrant vegetables, heady spices, and creamy sauces in every bite.

Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something cozy, these gravies are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Don’t be afraid to make them your own—switch up the veggies, play with the spices, and try new pairings. And if you’re eager to explore more plant-based dishes, check out these flavorful options: Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals, Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners, and Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for dessert!

Happy cooking—and may your gravy always be rich, flavorful, and full of love!

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