Easy vegan brown gravy recipe – best vegetarian gravy
Easy vegan brown gravy – best Thanksgiving recipe – Get ready for this delicious, creamy, and oh-so-tasty 10-minute easy vegan brown gravy recipe. It’s so easy to make and no one will believe it only took 10 minutes to make this delicious vegetarian gravy recipe. This tasty vegan turkey gravy recipe has been called “the best vegan gravy ever” on numerous occasions (pretty much every time I serve it). It’s the kind of dairy-free brown gravy recipe that goes with everything…and it’s absolutely packed with flavors. We’re talking one of the best vegan brown gravy recipes ever. It’s like a delicious southern brown gravy meets thanksgiving gravy recipe without drippings! So. Much. Flavor! Even meat eaters love this delicious vegetarian gravy recipe!
This easy vegan thanksgiving gravy belong on the Thanksgiving table. It’s the best vegetarian gravy recipe to go with any Thanksgiving meal! But it’s also the best vegetarian gravy recipe all year round!
For me, gravy is an all-year-round obsession. A rich luxe gravy, full of flavor with a velvety texture, just ready to accompany your favorite comfort foods… like mashed potatoes and gravy, or vegan meatless meatballs. Yum.
Best vegan gravy recipe
It seems to me like gravy is one of those things that tend to be overly complicated – especially vegan gravy. But this easy 10-minute easy veggie gravy recipe is here to change that.
It’s loaded with flavors and is sure to make everyone crave more. I always have to make a double portion when I have anyone over.
My family likes to consider themselves gravy connoisseurs. We have a deep appreciation for gravy and as such we also have a lot of opinions and demands as to what makes great gravy. That’s why coming up with a vegan version that could rival our family’s favorite regular gravy was a top priority. But I also wanted my easy vegetarian thanksgiving gravy recipe to be easy and approachable. Partly because I don’t want to slave away in the kitchen for hours, and partly because I believe that food should be as easy as it should be tasty. This tasty easy vegetarian thanksgiving gravy is perfect for any vegetarian thanksgiving dinner! It’s rich, luscious, and full of savory flavors!
To create my vegan gravy recipe I had to delve deep into our secret family gravy recipes (yes, they actually exist and each family member guards their gravy recipe like it’s the Holy Grail).
In this dairy free southern brown gravy recipe we’re covering
- How to get a creamy southern brown gravy recipe
- Vegan southern brown gravy recipe ingredients
- Tips and Tricks for making the best plant based brown gravy
- How to make delicious vegan brown gravy
- Ways to serve southern brown gravy recipe
- How to store and freeze gravy
- FAQs
Getting the right creaminess to a vegan brown gravy for a perfect gravy
To get the right type of creamy gravy consistency I utilized the power of Nutritional Yeast. It gives that amazing cheesy and rich flavor that would usually be accomplished by double cream. If you don’t want to use nutritional yeast, you could replace some of the water with vegan double cream (for the best results you should use vegan double cream that’s made out of soy or oats).
What’s great about this best vegan gravy recipe:
- It’s so quick and easy to make
- Thick, creamy, and loaded with flavors
- A true crowd pleaser vegan brown gravy recipe
- Vegan, dairy free and can be gluten-free
- Unlike regular gravy, this vegan gravy is a whole lot healthier
More reasons to love this delicious southern brown gravy
Let me tell you why vegan brown gravy is so amazing and why you and your whole family is going to love it!
1. Vegan Brown Gravy: This delicious gravy is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and those following a plant-based lifestyle. It’s a guilt-free option packed with flavor.
2. Vegan Beef Gravy: This vegan brown gravy is a fantastic substitute for traditional beef-based gravies. It offers all the savory richness and umami taste you crave without any animal products. And it’s an amazing low carb brown gravy recipe that tastes full- flavored and rich.
3. Easy Vegan Gravy Recipe: This recipe is incredibly simple to make, even for beginner cooks. You don’t need any complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. It’s quick, easy, and hassle-free and always gets a five star rating.
4. Plant-Based Brown Gravy: This plant-based brown gravy is made using wholesome ingredients from the earth. It’s a healthier alternative to traditional gravies, as it contains no animal fats or cholesterol and is a great vegan thanksgiving recipe.
5. Homemade Vegan Gravy: Making your own vegan brown gravy allows you to control the flavors and adjust them to your liking. You can tailor it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
6. Vegan Gluten-Free brown Gravy: This recipe can easily be free from gluten, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions. You can enjoy it with peace of mind, knowing it won’t trigger any gluten-related issues.
7. Savory Vegan Sauce: This vegan brown gravy is rich, savory, and full of depth. It enhances the flavors of your dishes, adding a delicious umami taste that complements a wide range of meals.
Even more reasons to love this Delicious plant based holiday gravy
8. Vegan Holiday Gravy: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any other special occasion, this vegan brown gravy is the perfect addition to your holiday feast. It brings warmth and comfort to your table, creating a memorable dining experience.
9. Thanksgiving Gravy Recipe without Drippings: This vegan brown gravy recipe doesn’t rely on meat drippings, making it a versatile and accessible option for everyone. You can enjoy a flavorful gravy even if you’re not roasting a meat-based dish.
So, get ready to savor the incredible flavors of vegan brown gravy. It’s a tasty, plant-based alternative that brings depth and richness to your meals, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and elevate your dishes with this wholesome and delicious gravy.
Ingredients to make Easy Creamy Plant Based southern brown gravy recipe
All Purpose Flour Brown Rice Flour for gluten-free – flour thickens the gravy, giving it the irresistible sauce consistency we all adore. You can use brown rice flour or tapioca flour for a gluten-free gravy thickener. Mix 2.5 tbsp rice flour or tapioca with 3 tbsp water, then add that to the hot stock liquid. Mix, then pour that into the saucepan with olive oil. The gravy will thicken while stirring in 2 minutes or so. Alternatively, you can use corn starch as the thickening agent to make a rich creamy gravy.
Onion Powder – onion powder is optional but I recommend it to give the sauce extra depth of flavor (like a really delicious irresistible flavor). You can also sub with fresh chopped onions if you prefer.
Vegetable Broth – you can use vegetable stock or vegetable stock cubes (bouillon cubes). Stock adds extra savory flavors and depth to the sauce.
Nutritional Yeast – nutritional yeast gives the gravy an amazingly deep and rich flavor that’s cheesy and irresistible.
Garlic – fresh garlic minced and fragrant gives the gravy that little extra. If you don’t have fresh garlic you can substitute it with garlic powder.
Mustard – adding mustard to gravy is a great way to give the sauce an almost peppery bite with a hint of sweetness. You can use your favorite mustard. If you prefer spicy mustard, use that, or if you prefer more deep and sweet mustard I recommend using that. For my gravy, I like to use a mild mustard that gives the sauce a subtle sweetness and a deep hint of pepper.
Brown Sugar – brown sugar gives the gravy a lovely rich hint of sweetness that binds all the flavors together. If you don’t have brown sugar you can substitute it with dark syrup or even maple syrup.
Extra seasonings that make all the difference
Apple Cider Vinegar – the apple cider vinegar gives the dairy-free gravy a hint of freshness and rounds out the flavors.
Dried Rosemary – rosemary gives this gravy a rounded flavor with a delicious hint of the Mediterranean.
Soy Sauce – in this easy gravy we’re harnessing the flavor power of soy sauce to add savory flavors and extra richness. For a gluten-free gravy, you can use tamari sauce. Alternatively, you can use vegan worcestershire sauce.
Olive Oil – olive oil gives that richness and a rounded creamy flavor palette a good gravy needs. You can also use avocado oil or coconut oil instead of olive oil. Or you can even use vegan butter or avocado oil if you prefer. It’s the rounded texture we’re after.
Tips and tricks for making the best thanksgiving gravy recipe without drippings – vegan brown gravy recipe
Here are some helpful tips and tricks for making this vegan brown gravy recipe:
1. Use the Right Flour: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, opt for brown rice flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour. It will provide a similar thickening effect without the gluten.
2. Whisk and Combine: When adding the ingredients to the pot, whisk them together well to ensure they are evenly distributed. This will help prevent any clumps and ensure a smooth gravy.
3. Adjust Thickness: If you find the gravy is too thick for your liking, you can add a little extra water or vegetable broth to thin it out. Add it gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
4. Flavor Enhancers: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a stronger onion flavor, you can increase the amount of onion powder. Similarly, if you enjoy a touch of sweetness, you can add a bit more brown sugar.
5. Reheating and Storage: The gravy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra water or broth to thin it out, as it may thicken in the fridge. Heat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
6. Creative Variations: Get creative with your vegan brown gravy by adding additional herbs or spices. For example, you can sprinkle some dried thyme or sage for an extra layer of flavor. Experiment and make it your own!
Remember, making gravy is an art, and you can adjust the recipe to suit your preferences. The key is to taste and adjust as you go, adding more of the ingredients you enjoy to create a personalized vegan brown gravy that satisfies your palate. Enjoy the process and have fun elevating your dishes with this delicious and versatile gravy!
How is this Delicious Easy Vegan Gravy recipe made?
How to make the best homemade vegan gravy Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the flour to the saucepan and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma.
3. Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Add the soy sauce, nutritional yeast (if using), onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. Remove from heat and let the gravy cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
– Serve the vegan brown gravy over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, veggie burgers, or as a flavorful dip for fries.
– Drizzle it over your favorite plant-based holiday dishes, such as lentil loaf or stuffed mushrooms, for an extra burst of flavor.
Note: Feel free to adjust the seasonings and thickness of the gravy according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mix a small amount of cornstarch or arrowroot powder with cold water and add it to the gravy, then simmer until thickened. How to serve vegan southern brown gravy recipe
As with regular gravy, this vegan gravy goes well with everything. It’s amazing with mashed potatoes, mashed cauliflower, regular potatoes, and the list goes on.
Try serving this gravy with my amazing creamy vegan mashed potatoes.
Stock vs broth for gravy
When it comes to making gravy, both vegetable stock and vegetable broth can be used, and they have similar purposes in providing a liquid base for the gravy. However, there are slight differences between the two:
1. Vegetable Stock: Vegetable stock is typically made by simmering vegetables, herbs, and spices in water. It is strained to remove the solid ingredients, resulting in a flavorful liquid. Vegetable stock is often used as a base for various dishes, including gravies. It provides a rich and savory flavor to the gravy.
2. Vegetable Broth: Vegetable broth is similar to vegetable stock, but it is typically seasoned with salt and may contain other flavorings like garlic, onions, or herbs. It is commonly used as a standalone soup or as a base for various recipes, including gravies. Vegetable broth tends to have a milder and more well-rounded flavor.
Both vegetable stock and vegetable broth can be used to make delicious and flavorful gravy. The choice between the two depends on your personal preference and the specific flavor profile you want to achieve. You can also adjust the seasoning and add additional herbs or spices to enhance the taste of the gravy.
5 delicious sides to serve with vegetarian brown gravy recipe
There’s so many delicious sides and main dish options to serve with this delicious vegetable gravy holiday dinners. For a Thanksgiving feast this vegan take on traditional gravy recipes works great with these vegetarian options:
- plant-based mashed sweet potatoes
- Easy portobello steak
- Vegan tofu roast
- The best easy vegan cauliflower roast
- Amazing plant-based dairy-free scalloped potatoes
- Easy vegan brisket or gluten-free vegan brisket
Vegan brown gravy Variations – how to make vegan brown gravy without nutritional yeast
To make this vegan brown gravy recipe delicious without nutritional yeast, you can try the following substitutions or modifications:
1. Flavorful herbs and spices: Increase the amount of onion powder, garlic, mustard, dried rosemary, or other herbs and spices that you enjoy. These will add depth and flavor to the gravy.
2. Mushroom or vegetable umami: If you enjoy a savory, umami flavor, you can sauté mushrooms or use mushroom broth as part of the vegetable broth. Mushrooms add a rich and earthy taste to the gravy.
3. Tamari or liquid aminos: Replace the soy sauce with tamari or liquid aminos for a similar umami flavor without the need for nutritional yeast.
4. Caramelized onions: Sauté some thinly sliced onions until they are caramelized and golden brown. Add them to the gravy for a sweet and savory flavor.
5. Plant-based butter or margarine: Add a tablespoon or two of plant-based butter or margarine to enhance the richness and creaminess of the gravy.
Remember to adjust the seasonings to taste and experiment with different combinations until you achieve the desired flavor profile. Enjoy your delicious vegan brown gravy!
More delicious vegan and vegetarian sauces and gravys
- The best vegan Mushroom gravy
- Easy vegan Bernaise sauce
- Gravy and meatless meatlballs
- Vegan aioli recipe
Dairy free gravy recipe FAQs
Make sure the vegetable stock is gluten-free and substitute flour with rice flour or tapioca flour. Mix 2.5 tbsp rice flour or tapioca with 3 tbsp water, then add that to the hot stock liquid. Mix, then pour that into the saucepan with olive oil. The gravy will thicken while stirring in 2 minutes or so.
As the gravy cools it thickens and skin will automatically form on the surface. Just add more water to make the gravy thinner, whisk the skin in, and heat it, it will be as good as new.
If serving the gravy soon, just place a lid on the saucepan then reheat when required.
Yes. This dairy-free gravy isn’t just delicious, it’s also great made ahead of time. Just transfer the finished gravy to a container and place the lid on, let it cool then refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze this vegan gravy in a freezer bag or freezer-safe container – once thawed, reheat and give it a good mix. You’ll need to add a little extra water to get the texture smooth and just the right consistency.
Vegan gravy can be stored in a container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze this gravy in a freezer bag or freezer-safe container.
Yes. Stock cubes have a more intense flavor and are great to use in gravy. Just dissolve the stock cubes or powder in boiling water before adding it to the saucepan.
Storage and gravy FAQs
Dairy-free gravy, like any other food, has a limited shelf life. When stored properly in the refrigerator, dairy-free gravy can typically last for 3 to 4 days. It’s important to keep it refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C) in an airtight container to maintain its quality and prevent spoilage.
If you have leftover dairy-free gravy that you won’t be able to use within this timeframe, you can freeze it for longer storage. When frozen, dairy-free gravy can last for up to 3 months. Just make sure to transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, and label it with the date before placing it in the freezer.
When you’re ready to use the frozen gravy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave. Once thawed, reheat the gravy on the stovetop or in the microwave until it reaches your desired serving temperature, stirring occasionally.
Remember to always use your best judgment and check for any signs of spoilage, such as an off odor, unusual texture, or mold growth, before consuming dairy-free gravy or any food. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the gravy to ensure your safety.
Freezing gravy instructions
Freezing gravy is a convenient way to preserve it for later use. Here’s a simple guide on how to freeze gravy:
1. Prepare the Gravy: Start by making a batch of your favorite gravy recipe. Allow the gravy to cool completely before proceeding to the next step.
2. Portion the Gravy: Divide the gravy into small, freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. It’s a good idea to portion the gravy into smaller servings to make it easier to thaw and use later. Leave some headspace in the containers or bags to allow for expansion during freezing.
3. Seal and Label: Ensure that the containers or bags are properly sealed to prevent any leakage. Label each container or bag with the date and contents so you can easily identify it in the freezer.
4. Freeze: Place the containers or bags in the freezer in an organized manner, allowing them to freeze flat. This will make them easier to stack and save space in the freezer.
5. Thawing and Reheating: When you’re ready to use the frozen gravy, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can place the container or bag in a bowl of cold water to thaw more quickly. Once thawed, reheat the gravy on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
It’s important to note that gravy with certain ingredients or thickeners, such as dairy or cornstarch, may have a slightly different texture after freezing and reheating. However, most gravies freeze well and can be enjoyed without compromising their taste too much.
By following these simple steps, you can freeze your gravy and have it on hand whenever you need it. It’s a time-saving and convenient way to enjoy homemade gravy without the need to make it from scratch every time.
Freezing gravy FAQs
When stored properly in the freezer, gravy can be frozen for up to 3 months. It’s important to store the gravy in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag to prevent freezer burn and maintain its quality.
Reheating gravy guide
1. Stovetop method: Pour the desired amount of gravy into a small saucepan or pot. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. Continue heating until the gravy reaches a gentle simmer.
2. Microwave method: Transfer the gravy to a microwave-safe container. Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, then remove and stir. Continue microwaving in short intervals, stirring in between, until the gravy is heated through.
3. Oven method: Preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 275°F (135°C). Place the gravy in an oven-safe dish or a covered oven-safe pot. Cover with a lid or aluminum foil. Heat in the oven for 20-30 minutes or until the gravy is hot throughout.
Regardless of the method you choose, stir the gravy occasionally to ensure even heating. If the reheated gravy is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a small amount of broth, water, or plant-based milk and stirring until desired consistency is reached. Remember to check the temperature of the gravy before serving to ensure it is hot and safe to consume.
It’s important to note that gravy should be refrigerated promptly after use and consumed within a few days. Reheat only the portion you need, and avoid reheating gravy multiple times as it can lead to food safety concerns.
Gravy making FAQs
Coconut flour can be used as a thickening agent for gravy, but it should be used with caution as it has a strong flavor and absorbs liquid quickly. Here’s how you can use coconut flour to thicken gravy:
1. Start by making a roux: In a small saucepan, melt a fat source like vegan butter or coconut oil over medium heat.
2. Gradually add coconut flour: Slowly sprinkle coconut flour into the melted fat while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. The ratio is typically 1 tablespoon of fat to 1 tablespoon of coconut flour.
3. Cook the roux: Continue whisking and cooking the roux for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste of the flour.
4. Gradually add liquid: Slowly pour in the liquid component of your gravy, such as vegetable broth or plant-based milk, while whisking constantly. The amount of liquid will depend on the desired thickness of your gravy. Keep in mind that coconut flour absorbs liquid quickly, so you may need to add more liquid than usual.
5. Simmer and thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy reaches the desired thickness. If it becomes too thick, you can thin it out by adding more liquid.
6. Season and serve: Season the gravy with herbs, spices, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and serve with your favorite dishes.
Keep in mind that coconut flour may impart a coconut flavor to the gravy, so it’s best suited for dishes where the flavor profile complements the coconut taste. Adjust the amount of coconut flour based on your preference and the specific recipe you’re using.
Gravy substitutes
If you’re looking for a substitute for flour in gravy, there are a few options you can consider:
1. Cornstarch: Cornstarch is a common alternative to flour for thickening gravies. It is a gluten-free option and provides a smooth and glossy texture. To use cornstarch as a thickener, mix it with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry, then gradually whisk it into the hot gravy. Cook the gravy for a few minutes until it thickens.
2. Arrowroot powder: Similar to cornstarch, arrowroot powder is a gluten-free thickener that works well in gravies. It has a neutral taste and gives a glossy finish to the sauce. Use it in the same way as cornstarch, creating a slurry and whisking it into the hot gravy.
3. Tapioca starch: Tapioca starch or flour can also be used as a thickener for gravy. It is derived from cassava root and provides a smooth texture. Mix tapioca starch with a small amount of cold water to form a slurry, then add it to the hot gravy and cook until thickened.
When using these substitutes, keep in mind that the thickening power may vary. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you achieve the desired consistency. Additionally, be aware that each thickener may impart a slightly different texture and taste to the gravy, so consider your preferences and the overall flavor of the dish.
Gravy Nutrition
The exact carb content of the gravy recipe may vary based on specific brands and measurements used. However, here’s an estimated breakdown of the carb content for the given recipe:
1 tablespoons olive oil: negligible carbs
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: approximately 14 grams of carbs
1 cup vegetable broth: approximately 4 grams of carbs
2 tablespoons soy sauce: approximately 2 grams of carbs
3 teaspoon nutritional yeast: approximately 3 gram of carbs
Seasonings (onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper): negligible carbs
Please note that these estimates are provided for informational purposes and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. It’s always a good idea to check the nutrition labels of the products you’re using for more accurate carb information.
The number of servings in this vegan brown gravy recipe will depend on the portion size. However, based on the given ingredients, this recipe should yield approximately 8 servings. As for the calories, here is an approximate breakdown:
– All-Purpose Flour or Brown Rice Flour: 110 calories
– Onion Powder: 15 calories
– Vegetable Broth: 20 calories
– Nutritional Yeast: 60 calories
– Garlic: 10 calories
– Mustard: 5 calories
– Brown Sugar: 45 calories
– Apple Cider Vinegar: 0 calories
– Dried Rosemary: 0 calories
– Soy Sauce: 20 calories
– Olive Oil: 120 calories
The total calorie count for the entire recipe would be around 405 calories. However, please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities used. It’s always a good idea to double-check the nutrition information for the specific ingredients you use and adjust accordingly if needed.
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?
Please leave us a review below and let us know how it turned out 🙂
Easy Vegan Gravy
Ingredients
- ¼ cup All Purpose Flour Brown Rice Flour for gluten free
- 1½ tsp Onion Powder
- 2 cups Vegetable Broth
- 3 tbsp Nutritional Yeast
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 tsp Mustard
- 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
- 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 tsp Dried Rosemary
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the flour to the saucepan and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma.
- Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the soy sauce, nutritional yeast (if using), onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.Remove from heat and let the gravy cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Recipe originally published November 1, 2019
Recipe updated July 17, 2023
This looks wonderful! Did you use prepared mustard or the dry? I am wanting to try this recipe tomorrow and I’ll let you know the results!
I used prepared mustard, but you can use any type of mustard you have on hand 🙂
Love this gravy recipe! It was rich, creamy, and everything a really good brown gravy should be 🙂