Ultimate Guide to Vegan Gravy: Delicious Recipes and Easy Techniques
Gravy is a quintessential comfort food, a luscious sauce that elevates countless dishes. From smothering mashed potatoes to drizzling over roasted vegetables, a good gravy can make all the difference. But what about vegans? Fear not! Creating a rich, flavorful, and satisfying vegan gravy is easier than you might think. This comprehensive guide will walk you through various vegan gravy recipes, techniques, and tips to ensure you always have the perfect plant-based gravy on hand.
Why Vegan Gravy?
Traditional gravy often relies on meat drippings for its characteristic savory depth. Vegan gravy, on the other hand, utilizes plant-based ingredients to achieve a similar, or even superior, flavor profile. Not only is it a compassionate choice, but it also opens up a world of creative culinary possibilities. Plus, it’s often healthier, lower in saturated fat and cholesterol, and packed with nutrients from vegetables and herbs.
Essential Ingredients for Vegan Gravy
Before diving into specific recipes, let’s explore some key ingredients that can help you create the best vegan gravy:
* **Vegetable Broth:** The foundation of most vegan gravies. Opt for low-sodium varieties to control the salt level, and consider using homemade broth for the richest flavor. Mushroom broth is particularly excellent for adding umami.
* **Nutritional Yeast:** This deactivated yeast adds a cheesy, savory flavor that mimics the richness of traditional gravy. It’s a staple in vegan cooking and a powerhouse of B vitamins.
* **Soy Sauce or Tamari:** Provides a salty, umami boost. Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.
* **Miso Paste:** Another umami bomb! Miso adds depth and complexity to vegan gravy. Use a mild white miso for a more subtle flavor.
* **Mushrooms:** Offer an earthy, meaty flavor that works beautifully in gravy. Cremini, shiitake, and portobello mushrooms are all excellent choices.
* **Onions, Garlic, and Celery:** These aromatic vegetables form the base of many gravies, adding sweetness and depth of flavor.
* **Herbs:** Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, sage, and bay leaf enhance the aroma and flavor of gravy.
* **Spices:** Black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and other spices can add warmth, complexity, and a hint of heat.
* **Thickeners:** Cornstarch, arrowroot powder, tapioca starch, and all-purpose flour (if not gluten-free) are common thickeners for vegan gravy. Roux (a mixture of fat and flour) can also be used.
* **Plant-Based Milk or Cream:** Adds richness and creaminess to the gravy. Unsweetened almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, and cashew cream are all good options.
* **Oils and Fats:** Olive oil, vegan butter, or coconut oil can be used to sauté vegetables and create a roux. Choose oils with neutral flavors.
* **Vinegars:** A splash of apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar can brighten the flavor and add a touch of acidity.
Basic Techniques for Making Vegan Gravy
Regardless of the specific recipe, several basic techniques are essential for creating delicious vegan gravy:
1. **Sautéing Aromatics:** Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and celery in oil or vegan butter until softened and fragrant. This creates a flavorful base for the gravy.
2. **Adding Mushrooms (Optional):** If using mushrooms, add them to the pot after the aromatics and cook until they release their moisture and become browned.
3. **Deglazing the Pot:** Pour in a splash of vegetable broth or wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. These browned bits are packed with flavor.
4. **Adding Broth and Seasonings:** Pour in the remaining vegetable broth, along with herbs, spices, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, and other seasonings.
5. **Simmering:** Bring the gravy to a simmer and let it cook for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
6. **Thickening:** There are several ways to thicken vegan gravy:
* **Slurry:** Mix cornstarch, arrowroot powder, or tapioca starch with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry. Whisk the slurry into the simmering gravy and cook until thickened.
* **Roux:** Melt vegan butter in a saucepan, then whisk in all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free blend) to create a roux. Cook the roux for a few minutes to develop a nutty flavor. Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth and simmer until thickened.
* **Pureeing Vegetables:** For a naturally thickened gravy, you can puree some of the cooked vegetables (such as roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes) and add them back to the pot.
7. **Blending (Optional):** For a smooth gravy, use an immersion blender or transfer the gravy to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids.
8. **Adjusting Seasoning:** Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, herbs, or spices to your liking.
9. **Adding Creaminess (Optional):** Stir in plant-based milk or cream for a richer, creamier gravy.
Vegan Gravy Recipes
Here are several delicious vegan gravy recipes to get you started:
Recipe 1: Classic Vegan Gravy
This recipe is a simple and versatile starting point for vegan gravy. It’s quick, easy, and uses readily available ingredients.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegan butter
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 cups vegetable broth
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
* 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
* 2 tablespoons cold water
**Instructions:**
1. Heat the olive oil or vegan butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, thyme, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch or arrowroot powder and cold water to create a slurry.
6. Whisk the slurry into the simmering gravy and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or soy sauce to your liking.
8. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or vegan stuffing.
Recipe 2: Mushroom Gravy
Mushroom gravy is a rich and savory option that’s perfect for special occasions. The mushrooms add an earthy, meaty flavor that’s incredibly satisfying.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegan butter
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
* 4 cups vegetable broth
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
* 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
* 2 tablespoons cold water
**Instructions:**
1. Heat the olive oil or vegan butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become browned, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, thyme, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch or arrowroot powder and cold water to create a slurry.
7. Whisk the slurry into the simmering gravy and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or balsamic vinegar to your liking.
9. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or vegan stuffing.
Recipe 3: Roasted Garlic and Herb Gravy
This gravy is packed with flavor from roasted garlic and fresh herbs. Roasting the garlic mellows its flavor and adds a subtle sweetness.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 head of garlic
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 4 cups vegetable broth
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
* 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
* 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
* 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
* 2 tablespoons cold water
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off the head of garlic, exposing the cloves. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and wrap in foil.
3. Roast the garlic in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and fragrant.
4. Let the garlic cool slightly, then squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and into a bowl.
5. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
6. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
7. Add the roasted garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
8. Pour in the vegetable broth, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, thyme, rosemary, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
9. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch or arrowroot powder and cold water to create a slurry.
10. Whisk the slurry into the simmering gravy and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
11. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
12. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or vegan stuffing.
Recipe 4: Cashew Cream Gravy
For an ultra-creamy and decadent gravy, try using cashew cream. This recipe is rich, smooth, and incredibly flavorful.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for at least 30 minutes
* 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegan butter
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 cups vegetable broth
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
* 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
* 1 teaspoon dried sage
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. Drain the soaked cashews and rinse them thoroughly.
2. Place the cashews in a blender with 1 cup of fresh water and blend until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
3. Heat the olive oil or vegan butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
4. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, sage, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
7. Stir in the cashew cream and cook until the gravy is heated through and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
8. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or soy sauce to your liking.
9. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or vegan stuffing.
Recipe 5: Sweet Potato Gravy
This recipe uses sweet potato to add natural sweetness, thickness, and a vibrant color to the gravy. It’s a great option for Thanksgiving or any fall meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
* 4 cups vegetable broth
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
* 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
4. Add the cubed sweet potato and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Bring to a simmer.
6. Cover the pot and cook until the sweet potato is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
7. Carefully transfer the gravy to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth.
8. Return the gravy to the saucepan and heat through.
9. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, cinnamon, or nutmeg to your liking.
10. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or vegan stuffing.
Tips for the Best Vegan Gravy
* **Use high-quality vegetable broth:** The flavor of the broth will significantly impact the flavor of the gravy. Choose a broth that you enjoy and consider making your own for the best results.
* **Don’t be afraid to experiment with seasonings:** Vegan gravy is a blank canvas for flavor. Try adding different herbs, spices, vinegars, and sauces to create your own unique blend.
* **Taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process:** This is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or other seasonings to your liking.
* **If the gravy is too thick, add more vegetable broth:** Thin it out gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
* **If the gravy is too thin, add a little more slurry or cook it down:** Simmer the gravy over low heat until it thickens to your liking.
* **For a smoother gravy, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve:** This will remove any lumps or particles.
* **Make it ahead of time:** Vegan gravy can be made a day or two in advance and reheated before serving. This is especially helpful for holidays or special occasions.
* **Store leftover gravy in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days:** Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Vegan gravy is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes:
* **Mashed Potatoes:** A classic pairing!
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Drizzle over roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, potatoes, or squash.
* **Vegan Stuffing:** A must-have for Thanksgiving or any holiday meal.
* **Vegan Meatloaf:** Elevate your vegan meatloaf with a generous serving of gravy.
* **Biscuits:** Serve over warm, flaky biscuits for a comforting breakfast or brunch.
* **Poutine:** Create a vegan version of this Canadian classic by pouring gravy over french fries and vegan cheese curds.
* **Open-Faced Sandwiches:** Top toasted bread with roasted vegetables and smother with gravy for a satisfying meal.
Troubleshooting Common Vegan Gravy Problems
* **Gravy is too bland:** Add more salt, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, or herbs and spices.
* **Gravy is too salty:** Add a splash of vinegar or a little bit of sugar to balance the flavors. You can also dilute it with more vegetable broth.
* **Gravy is too thin:** Add a little more slurry or cook it down over low heat.
* **Gravy is too thick:** Add more vegetable broth to thin it out.
* **Gravy is lumpy:** Strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or use an immersion blender to smooth it out.
* **Gravy is too dark:** Use a lighter-colored vegetable broth and avoid browning the vegetables too much.
* **Gravy is too light:** Use a darker-colored vegetable broth or add a teaspoon of molasses or balsamic vinegar.
Conclusion
Creating delicious vegan gravy is a simple and rewarding process. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can easily make a rich, flavorful, and satisfying gravy that rivals any traditional version. So, experiment with different recipes, adjust the seasonings to your liking, and enjoy the comforting goodness of vegan gravy!