Why You’ll Love this Vegan Brown Gravy Recipe
Whether you’re a long-time vegan or just exploring plant-based options, you’ll love this Vegan Brown Gravy Recipe for its rich, savory flavor and creamy texture.
I can’t get enough of how this gravy enhances my meals, transforming simple dishes into comforting delights. It’s versatile, pairing beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even just drizzled over rice.
Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for any occasion. I appreciate knowing that I’m enjoying a dish that’s not only delicious but also aligns with my plant-based lifestyle.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients of Vegan Brown Gravy
To make this delightful Vegan Brown Gravy, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients. Trust me, these are things you might already have in your pantry. This gravy isn’t only rich and flavorful, but it’s also super easy to whip up, which is always a win in my book.
You can enjoy it over mashed potatoes, rice, or even drizzled on roasted veggies. Let’s gather our supplies and get ready to make something delicious!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup whole wheat pastry flour
- 1 cup cashew pieces
- 4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon chicken-flavored vegetarian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Braggs liquid aminos or soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Now, let’s talk about these ingredients a bit more. Whole wheat pastry flour gives the gravy a nice, nutty flavor and helps thicken it up.
Cashews? Oh, they’re the secret to that creamy texture we all crave in gravy. If you don’t have cashews on hand, you can try using other nuts, but the flavor might vary a bit.
Chicken-flavored vegetarian seasoning is a game-changer here, adding that savory depth that makes this gravy taste like it’s been simmering for hours.
And for the soy sauce or Braggs, it’s all about that umami kick. If you’re watching your sodium, you can adjust the salt to your liking.
How to Make Vegan Brown Gravy
Alright, let’s plunge into making this delicious Vegan Brown Gravy. First things first, grab your 1/2 cup of whole wheat pastry flour. Now, we’re going to brown it in a dry skillet. Yes, you heard that right—no oil, just the flour. Set the skillet over medium heat and give that flour a little time to toast. This step adds a deep, nutty flavor that makes all the difference.
Just keep stirring it around until it turns a lovely golden brown color. Watch it closely, though, because burnt flour isn’t the flavor we’re going for—trust me, I’ve learned that the hard way.
While your flour is browning, let’s prep those cashew pieces. You’ll need 1 cup of them. Toss them into your blender, but hold on to your horses—don’t add all that 4 cups of water just yet. Start with just a bit of water to help the cashews blend smoothly. I’ve made the mistake of pouring in all the water at once, and let’s just say, it was a chunky disaster.
Blend until the cashews are silky smooth, then add the rest of the water along with your browned flour, 1 tablespoon of chicken-flavored vegetarian seasoning, 1 tablespoon of Braggs liquid aminos or soy sauce, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt (or however much you prefer). It’s a bit of a flavor explosion, and I’m here for it.
Now, transfer that luscious mixture into a saucepan and heat it over medium-high. You’ll want to bring it to a boil, but don’t just let it sit there—keep stirring constantly. This is where the magic happens; as it heats up, it thickens and transforms into rich, velvety gravy.
If you find it’s getting too thick, you can always add a splash more water until it reaches your desired consistency. And voilà, there you have it—your very own Vegan Brown Gravy, ready to smother over mashed potatoes, rice, or whatever else your heart desires.
It’s comforting, it’s savory, and it’s as easy as pie—well, easier than pie, really. Enjoy!
Vegan Brown Gravy Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your Vegan Brown Gravy, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try.
For a gluten-free version, swap whole wheat pastry flour for cornstarch or gluten-free flour. You can also experiment with different nut butters like almond or sunflower seed butter for a unique flavor.
Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an earthy twist. If you want a richer taste, consider sautéing mushrooms before adding them to the gravy.
Finally, using vegetable broth instead of water can deepen the flavor even more.
Get creative and enjoy!
What to Serve with Vegan Brown Gravy
After experimenting with various substitutions and variations for your Vegan Brown Gravy, it’s time to think about what dishes pair well with this delicious sauce.
I love serving it over mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. It also makes a fantastic topping for rice or quinoa, adding flavor and richness.
Try drizzling it over roasted vegetables or stirring it into a veggie pot pie for extra depth. If you’re in the mood for something hearty, spoon it over vegan meatloaf or lentil loaf.
The possibilities are endless, and each dish becomes a delightful canvas for your gravy!
Additional Tips & Notes
While making Vegan Brown Gravy is straightforward, a few tips can enhance its flavor and texture.
First, to intensify the taste, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a dash of smoked paprika. If you prefer a thicker gravy, let it simmer longer, stirring frequently.
For a richer flavor, consider using roasted vegetable stock instead of water. Always taste as you go; adjusting salt or seasoning can make a big difference.
Finally, if you want a creamier consistency, blend in a splash of non-dairy milk before serving. Enjoy experimenting to find your perfect balance!