Best Vegan Miso Gravy Recipe for Easy Plant-Based Meals

Updated On: October 6, 2025

If you’re looking for a rich, flavorful, and utterly comforting vegan gravy, this best vegan miso gravy recipe is about to become your new kitchen staple. Combining the deep umami notes of miso with a smooth, creamy texture, this gravy elevates any meal, from mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables and beyond.

Unlike traditional gravies that rely on animal-based stocks or butter, this recipe uses wholesome plant-based ingredients that are easy to find and quick to prepare. It’s perfect for holiday dinners, weeknight meals, or whenever you want to add a savory boost to your dishes.

This miso gravy is more than just a sauce; it’s a celebration of umami, with a subtle tang and a silky finish that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply exploring plant-based alternatives, this recipe will surprise you with its simplicity and depth of flavor.

Ready to learn how to make this luscious vegan miso gravy? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan miso gravy is a game-changer for several reasons:

  • Umami-packed flavor: Thanks to the fermented miso paste, this gravy delivers a deep, savory taste that mimics traditional gravy without any animal products.
  • Simple ingredients: You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry, making this a convenient go-to recipe.
  • Versatile and adaptable: Use it for mashed potatoes, grain bowls, steamed veggies, or even as a sauce for your favorite vegan meat substitutes.
  • Quick to prepare: From start to finish, this recipe takes less than 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Allergen-friendly: Gluten-free and soy-based options can be adjusted to suit your dietary needs.

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons white or yellow miso paste (ensure vegan-friendly)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or any neutral oil
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free option
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional, balances flavors)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for subtle smokiness)
  • Salt to taste (be careful, miso and soy sauce add saltiness)

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowl (optional, for miso paste mixing)
  • Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
  • Serving container or gravy boat

Instructions

  1. Prepare the miso mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste with about 1/4 cup of the vegetable broth until smooth and free of lumps. This step ensures the miso incorporates evenly later.
  2. Make the roux: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 2-3 minutes. This cooks out the raw flour taste and creates a thickening base. The roux should appear golden and slightly bubbly.
  3. Add the broth: Gradually pour in the remaining 1 3/4 cups of vegetable broth while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture starts to thicken and comes to a gentle simmer.
  4. Incorporate the miso: Stir in the pre-mixed miso paste and soy sauce (or tamari). Whisk well to combine, ensuring the miso is fully dissolved into the gravy.
  5. Season it up: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and maple syrup. Stir well and let the gravy simmer on low heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
  6. Taste and adjust: Sample your gravy and add salt if necessary, keeping in mind the saltiness from the miso and soy sauce. Adjust seasonings to your preference.
  7. Serve warm: Once the gravy reaches your desired thickness, remove from heat and serve immediately. If it thickens too much upon standing, whisk in a splash of vegetable broth to loosen it up.

Tips & Variations

“For the best flavor, use a white or yellow miso paste as it imparts a milder, sweeter umami taste perfect for gravy.”

  • Make it gluten-free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend or cornstarch. For cornstarch, mix 1 tablespoon with 2 tablespoons cold water and add at the end of simmering, stirring until thickened.
  • Boost the richness: Stir in 2 tablespoons of vegan butter or coconut cream at the end for a creamier texture.
  • Add fresh herbs: Try stirring in chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage for an herby twist.
  • Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
  • Storage: Keep leftover gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding broth if needed to restore consistency.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1/4 cup)
Calories 45
Fat 3g
Carbohydrates 4g
Protein 2g
Fiber 0.5g
Sodium 350mg

Serving Suggestions

This vegan miso gravy pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables for a cozy, comforting meal.

It’s also fantastic drizzled on grain bowls featuring quinoa or brown rice and steamed greens.

Try it alongside vegan meatloaf or tempeh “cutlets” to add moisture and flavor. For a unique twist, use it as a sauce base for a vegan shepherd’s pie or pour it over crispy tofu for a delightful umami punch.

Be sure to check out these other delicious recipes to complement your miso gravy experience:

Conclusion

This vegan miso gravy recipe is a simple yet transformative addition to your culinary repertoire. Its luscious texture and complex umami flavors bring a new depth to plant-based meals, making it an ideal companion for holiday feasts or everyday dinners.

The best part? It’s quick to make, customizable, and uses ingredients that are likely already on your shelves.

Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just experimenting with new flavors, this gravy has something to offer everyone.

Next time you want a comforting sauce that’s both nourishing and delicious, reach for this miso gravy recipe. Don’t forget to explore other exciting recipes like the Marzipan Challah Recipe or the hearty Lump Of Coal Recipe to round out your meal.

Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Miso Gravy

Description: A savory and creamy vegan miso gravy perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes or roasted veggies. Packed with umami flavor and easy to make in under 20 minutes.

Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT15M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons white miso paste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture and whisk to combine, cooking for 2 minutes.
  5. Gradually pour in vegetable broth while whisking to avoid lumps.
  6. Add miso paste, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
  7. Simmer the gravy for 5 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened.
  8. Remove from heat and stir in nutritional yeast if using.
  9. Serve warm over your favorite dishes.

Nutrition: Calories: 90 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 8 g

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Marta K

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