Why You’ll Love this Vegan Gravy Recipe
You’re going to love this vegan gravy recipe for its rich flavor and versatility. I can’t get enough of how it enhances everything from mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables.
The best part? It’s easy to whip up, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Whether it’s a cozy Sunday dinner or a festive holiday gathering, this gravy always impresses.
It’s also a fantastic way to elevate your comfort food game without any animal products. Plus, you can customize the spices to suit your taste, ensuring it’s always just right for you and your loved ones. You’ll keep coming back for more!
Ingredients of Vegan Gravy
When it comes to whipping up a flavorful vegan gravy, having the right ingredients is key. This recipe is packed with deliciousness and is surprisingly simple to make. You probably have most of these items in your pantry already, and if not, a quick trip to the grocery store will set you right.
Just imagine that warm, savory goodness drizzled over mashed potatoes or roasted veggies—it’s enough to make anyone’s mouth water. So, let’s jump right into what you’ll need to create this delightful vegan gravy masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups nutritional yeast
- 1/3 cup dried parsley
- 1 1/2 tablespoons salt
- 1 1/2 tablespoons dried dill weed
- 2 1/2 tablespoons onion powder
- 2 tablespoons dried basil
- 2 tablespoons dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1/3 cup unbleached flour
- 1/3 cup soybean oil
- 4 cups water
- 1/3 cup tamari
- 1/4 cup mixed spice
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients for a moment. Nutritional yeast is a superstar here, bringing that cheesy, umami flavor that makes your taste buds dance. If you’ve never used it before, trust me, it’s a game changer.
And those dried herbs? They not only add depth but also create that aromatic experience that fills your kitchen with warmth. You can always tweak the spices to match your personal preferences.
Maybe you love a bit more kick—just throw in some red pepper flakes. Or if you’re a garlic lover, a dash of garlic powder could take things to the next level. The world is your oyster, or in this case, your vegan gravy!
How to Make Vegan Gravy
Making vegan gravy is like crafting a warm hug in a bowl. It’s simple, yet so satisfying. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and plunge into the process of creating this deliciously rich sauce.
First things first, grab a small pot and pour in 4 cups of water, along with 1/3 cup of tamari (that’s like soy sauce’s cooler, gluten-free sibling), and all those wonderful spices: 2 1/2 cups of nutritional yeast, 1/3 cup of dried parsley, 1 1/2 tablespoons of salt, 1 1/2 tablespoons of dried dill weed, 2 1/2 tablespoons of onion powder, 2 tablespoons each of dried basil, thyme, and oregano, and 2 teaspoons of black pepper.
Now, bring this lovely mixture to a boil. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s pure bliss.
While that’s bubbling away, let’s multitask because, why not? In a separate saucepan, pour in 1/3 cup of soybean oil and heat it over medium. Once it’s nice and warm (but not smoking—nobody wants burnt oil), slowly whisk in 1/3 cup of unbleached flour.
You’re making a roux here, which is a fancy word for the combination of oil and flour that will help thicken your gravy. Keep whisking until it develops a nutty aroma—it’s a bit like a workout for your whisking arm. Just be careful; this stuff can burn faster than you can say “vegan gravy.”
Once your roux is ready, remove it from the heat.
Now, here comes the fun part. When your pot of water and spices is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and slowly whisk in your roux. This is where the magic happens—watch as your mixture transforms into a thickening gravy.
Let it simmer until it reaches your desired thickness. I personally love letting it cool off and then sticking it in the fridge overnight. It becomes gelatinous, and when you reheat it, oh boy, it takes on this beautifully thick consistency that’s perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes or roasted veggies.
Vegan Gravy Substitutions & Variations
After whipping up a batch of rich vegan gravy, it’s fun to explore ways to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.
For a gluten-free option, swap out the unbleached flour for cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. If you’re craving a smoky flavor, add a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
Want a creamier texture? Blend in some coconut milk or cashew cream. You can also experiment with different herbs, like rosemary or sage, to match your meal.
These substitutions make it easy to create a unique gravy that fits perfectly with your favorite dishes!
What to Serve with Vegan Gravy
Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just looking to elevate a weeknight meal, vegan gravy pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes.
I love serving it over fluffy mashed potatoes for that classic comfort food experience. It’s also fantastic drizzled on roasted vegetables, adding depth and flavor.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try it with a hearty vegan shepherd’s pie or a savory grain bowl. Even pasta dishes can benefit from a splash of this rich gravy.
Don’t forget to serve it alongside biscuits or crusty bread for dipping. Trust me, it’ll take your meal to the next level!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your vegan gravy turns out perfectly every time, keep a few key tips in mind.
First, don’t rush the roux; let it develop that nutty aroma without burning. If your gravy is too thin, simmer it longer to achieve your desired thickness.
Taste as you go; a pinch more salt or spices can elevate the flavor. If you want a richer taste, add a splash of soy sauce or liquid smoke.
Finally, store leftovers in the fridge overnight; it thickens beautifully and reheats well.
Trust me, these little details make a big difference! Enjoy your delicious gravy!