Black Pepper Sauce Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Ideas

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Black pepper sauce is a versatile and flavorful condiment that adds a delightful kick to any dish. While traditionally paired with meats, this black pepper sauce recipe vegetarian transforms the classic into a plant-based delight.

Whether you’re drizzling it over sautéed vegetables, tofu, or even a hearty bowl of noodles, this sauce packs a bold, peppery punch that’s both comforting and exciting. Its rich, savory profile balanced with the warmth of black pepper makes it a perfect addition to your vegetarian cooking arsenal.

In this recipe, you’ll learn how to create a creamy, tangy, and spicy black pepper sauce using simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients. It’s quick to prepare, requiring minimal equipment, and can easily be tailored to suit your taste preferences.

Not only does it elevate everyday meals, but it also impresses guests with its complex flavor. If you love bold sauces, you’ll find this black pepper sauce a new favorite for your vegetarian dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This black pepper sauce is a game-changer for vegetarian cooking. Here’s why:

  • Bold and Peppery: Freshly cracked black pepper gives this sauce its signature sharpness and warmth.
  • Rich and Creamy: Using plant-based milk and a touch of cashew cream, it achieves a luscious texture without dairy.
  • Easy to Make: Ready in under 20 minutes with simple ingredients you likely already have.
  • Versatile: Perfect for drizzling over grilled veggies, tofu, or even as a dipping sauce for snacks.
  • Customizable: Easily adjusted to be spicier or milder depending on your preference.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk)
  • 1/4 cup raw cashews, soaked for 2 hours and blended (optional for creaminess)
  • 1 teaspoon nutritional yeast (optional, for umami)
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave nectar
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Medium skillet or saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Blender (if using cashews for creaminess)
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Small bowl for soaking cashews (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cashew cream (if using): Soak the raw cashews in warm water for at least 2 hours. Drain and blend with 1/4 cup of water until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  3. Add black pepper: Stir in the freshly cracked black pepper and cook for 30 seconds to release its fragrance. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level.
  4. Make the slurry: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold vegetable broth until smooth. This will help thicken the sauce.
  5. Add liquids: Pour the remaining vegetable broth and plant-based milk into the skillet. Stir well to combine with the onion, garlic, and pepper mixture.
  6. Thicken the sauce: Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Keep stirring continuously until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
  7. Add cashew cream and season: Stir in the cashew cream (if used) for extra richness. Add soy sauce, nutritional yeast, and maple syrup. Simmer gently for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  8. Taste and adjust: Season with salt to taste. If you want it pepperier, add more cracked black pepper. For a sweeter balance, add a little more maple syrup.
  9. Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm over your favorite vegetarian dishes.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your cornstarch or arrowroot is certified gluten-free.

Use freshly cracked black pepper for the most vibrant flavor. Pre-ground pepper won’t offer the same kick.

Variation ideas:

  • Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice for a tangy twist.
  • Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or caramelized shallots for extra depth.
  • For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
  • Swap cashew cream with coconut cream for a tropical hint.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (approx.)
Calories 120 kcal
Protein 3 g
Fat 7 g
Carbohydrates 12 g
Fiber 1.5 g
Sugar 3 g
Sodium 350 mg

Serving Suggestions

This black pepper sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of vegetarian dishes.

  • Drizzle over sautéed or grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant.
  • Use as a sauce for pan-fried tofu or tempeh for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Serve alongside steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a quick and satisfying meal.
  • Pour over mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes for a peppery twist on a classic side.
  • Combine with stir-fried mushrooms and greens for a hearty vegetarian entrée.

Looking for more delicious sauces to complement your meals? Try our Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe or indulge your sweet tooth with the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe.

For a savory snack, check out the Cheese Penny Recipe.

Conclusion

This vegetarian black pepper sauce is a must-have for anyone looking to add a punch of flavor to their dishes without relying on meat or heavy dairy. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and uses wholesome ingredients that come together to create a luxurious, creamy condiment.

The boldness of black pepper balanced with the smoothness of cashew cream and the umami of soy sauce makes it a crowd-pleaser for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Whether you’re cooking a simple weeknight dinner or hosting a special meal, this sauce elevates your food to the next level. Plus, it stores well in the fridge for quick use throughout the week.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the tips and variations to make it truly your own. Embrace the power of black pepper in a wholesome, vegetarian-friendly way and enjoy the delicious results!

📖 Recipe Card: Black Pepper Sauce Recipe Vegetarian

Description: A flavorful and spicy black pepper sauce perfect for vegetarian dishes. Easy to prepare and adds a delicious kick to any meal.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT20M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons black peppercorns, crushed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and crushed black peppercorns; cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes.
  5. Mix vegetable broth, soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch in a bowl.
  6. Pour the broth mixture into the pan and stir continuously.
  7. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
  8. Add salt to taste and remove from heat.
  9. Serve warm over your favorite vegetarian dishes.

Nutrition: Calories: 80 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 7 g

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Marta K

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