Best Vegetarian Turkey Gravy Recipe for Holiday Feasts

Thanksgiving and holiday dinners just aren’t complete without a rich, flavorful gravy to drizzle over your mashed potatoes, stuffing, and of course, vegetarian turkey. But finding a vegetarian turkey gravy recipe that truly captures that deep, savory goodness can be a challenge.

This recipe is designed to bring you the best of both worlds: the hearty, comforting flavors of traditional turkey gravy without any meat or animal products. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to try something new, this gravy is easy to make and guaranteed to please every palate at your table.

Using wholesome ingredients like mushrooms, herbs, and vegetable broth, this gravy has a velvety texture and a robust, savory flavor that perfectly complements any vegetarian holiday main dish. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with your favorite stuffing or mashed potatoes.

Let’s dive into why this is the best vegetarian turkey gravy recipe you’ll ever make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian turkey gravy recipe combines rich umami flavors with the comforting texture that gravy lovers crave. It’s made without any animal products, making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans alike.

The use of mushrooms adds a natural depth and meatiness, while fresh herbs like thyme and sage bring traditional holiday notes to the dish. It’s also easy to customize—whether you want it thicker, thinner, or with a hint of wine or sherry for extra complexity.

Best of all, this gravy is quick to prepare from scratch, using simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients you probably already have on hand. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any occasion where you want that classic gravy flavor without the turkey.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, finely chopped
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 4 cups vegetable broth (preferably low sodium)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for depth and color)
• 1 tsp dried sage
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for subtle smokiness)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Fine mesh strainer (optional, for extra smooth gravy)
• Serving gravy boat or bowl

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent and soft.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Stir in the chopped mushrooms. Cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown. This step is crucial for developing the rich umami flavor.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This helps eliminate the raw flour taste and forms the roux that will thicken the gravy.
5. Slowly whisk in the vegetable broth, making sure to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
6. Add the soy sauce, dried sage, thyme, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Stir well to combine all the flavors.
7. Let the gravy simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. It will thicken and develop a deeper flavor as it cooks. If it becomes too thick, add a little more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
8. Taste and season with salt as needed. For an ultra-smooth gravy, you can strain it through a fine mesh sieve to remove any solids.
9. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

“For a richer gravy, try adding a splash of white wine or sherry during the mushroom sauté step. It adds a lovely depth and complexity to the flavor.”

Use different mushrooms: Feel free to experiment with shiitake, portobello, or mixed wild mushrooms for varying textures and flavors.

Make it vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan, but always double-check that your vegetable broth is free from animal products.

Thicken with cornstarch: For a gluten-free option, replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch. Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir it in after the broth is added.

Simmer until thickened.

Boost the umami: Add a teaspoon of nutritional yeast or a couple of tablespoons of miso paste (dissolved in a bit of broth) for an extra savory punch.

Nutrition Facts

*Sodium content can vary depending on the broth and soy sauce used.

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian turkey gravy is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes.

• Pour it over mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables for a classic holiday side.
• Use it to moisten vegetarian stuffing or dressing for extra flavor.
• Drizzle it over vegetarian turkey substitutes or nut roasts to mimic traditional holiday meals.
• Try it as a sauce for vegan meatloaf or savory pies for a comforting twist.

For more inspiration on vegetarian and vegan holiday dishes, check out our Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe and our Collard Green Casserole Recipes.

Conclusion

This best vegetarian turkey gravy recipe is a true holiday game-changer. It manages to capture the rich, savory essence of classic turkey gravy without any meat or animal-derived ingredients.

By using mushrooms, herbs, and a flavorful vegetable broth, it creates a luscious sauce that enhances any vegetarian or vegan meal.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this gravy is easy to prepare and versatile enough to complement a wide range of dishes. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion where you want that comforting, homemade touch.

Don’t forget to try it alongside other delicious recipes like our Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe or our Cheese Penny Recipe for a complete festive feast.

Enjoy your cooking and happy holidays!

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