Rich and Creamy Vegetarian Gravy

Rich and Creamy Vegetarian Gravy

Servings

4-6

Prep Time

5 minutes

Cook Time

15 minutes

Calories

100

Cuisine

American

Category

Sauce

Rich and silky, this vegetarian gravy is the perfect complement to your favourite holiday dishes. Made with sautéed onions, garlic, and a flavourful roux, it delivers all the depth of traditional gravy without the meat.


Whether poured over mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or stuffing, its creamy texture and savoury taste make it a crowd-pleasing addition to any feast.

Rich and Creamy Vegetarian Gravy

Ingredients

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (or plant-based butter for vegan)

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)

  • 2 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)

  • 1/2 cup milk (or plant-based milk for vegan)

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)

  • 1 tsp dried thyme

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)

  • Salt to taste

Directions

  1. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

  2. Sprinkle the flour over the onions, stirring constantly to create a smooth paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

  3. Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth and milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5–7 minutes.

  4. Stir in soy sauce, thyme, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.

  5. For a silky consistency, blend the gravy using an immersion blender or strain through a fine mesh sieve.

  6. Pour over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or stuffing. Enjoy!

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Cooking Tips

  1. Boost Flavour: Add a splash of white wine or a pinch of nutritional yeast for added umami.
  2. Thicker Gravy: Use more flour in the roux or reduce the liquid longer for a thicker consistency.
  3. Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  4. Herbal Touch: Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs can be simmered in the gravy for extra aroma.
  5. Advance Prep: This gravy reheats beautifully—perfect for making ahead.

 

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve over garlic mashed potatoes or herbed roasted vegetables.

  • Drizzle on vegetarian stuffing or lentil loaf for added richness.

  • Use as a dipping sauce for crusty bread or biscuits.

 

FAQ’s

Q: Can I make this gravy vegan?
A: Yes! Use plant-based butter and milk to make this gravy completely vegan-friendly.

Q: How long can I store leftover gravy?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Q: Can I freeze this gravy?
A: Yes, freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on low heat.

Q: What can I use instead of soy sauce?
A: Tamari or coconut aminos are excellent substitutes.

Q: Can I make this gravy ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the gravy, cool completely, and store in the fridge. Reheat and whisk to smooth before serving.

Chef's Recommendation

"A sharp knife is your best friend in the kitchen. For recipes like this, I always reach for my Chikashi chef knife - it gives me the control and precision I need for perfect results every time."
Chef's Note: A sharp knife not only makes prep work faster but also safer - dull knives require more pressure and are more likely to slip.

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