Vegan Brown Gravy Recipe

Olive oil: Used as the base for sautéing the onions and garlic, adding a rich flavor and smooth texture.

Onion: Finely chopped to provide a sweet and savory foundation for the gravy.

Garlic: Minced to add a robust and aromatic flavor.

All-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the gravy, creating a smooth and velvety texture.

Vegetable broth: The liquid base that adds depth and richness to the gravy.

Soy sauce: Adds umami and a touch of saltiness to enhance the overall flavor.

Thyme: A dried herb that brings a subtle earthy note to the gravy.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and warmth to balance the flavors.

When making a roux, ensure that you cook the flour for at least 2 minutes to eliminate any raw taste. This step is crucial for developing a rich, deep flavor in your gravy. Additionally, when gradually whisking in the vegetable broth, make sure to do it slowly to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth consistency.

• olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and can add a subtle flavor that complements the gravy.

• onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and slightly sweeter flavor, which can add a different depth to the gravy.

• garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic is not available, though it may slightly alter the texture.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch is a gluten-free thickening agent that can be used to achieve a similar consistency.

• vegetable broth - Substitute with mushroom broth: Mushroom broth adds a rich, umami flavor that enhances the depth of the gravy.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and provides a similar salty, umami flavor.

• thyme - Substitute with rosemary: Rosemary offers a different aromatic profile that can add a unique twist to the gravy.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used to maintain the peppery note without altering the color of the gravy.

• Allow the vegan brown gravy to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation and helps maintain the gravy's texture.
• Transfer the cooled gravy into an airtight container. Glass jars or BPA-free plastic containers work best to preserve the flavor and prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in.
• Label the container with the date of preparation to keep track of its freshness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The gravy will keep well for up to 5 days, making it a convenient option for meal prep or quick dinners.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the gravy. Pour the cooled gravy into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Lay the bags flat in the freezer to save space and allow for quicker thawing. The gravy can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to use, thaw the gravy in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker option, place the sealed bag in a bowl of cold water.
• Reheat the thawed gravy in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the gravy appears too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
• Adjust the seasoning as needed after reheating. Sometimes, freezing can slightly alter the flavors, so a pinch of black pepper or a dash of soy sauce might be necessary to bring it back to perfection.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Pour the leftover vegan brown gravy into a saucepan.
  2. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
  3. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
  4. Continue to heat until the gravy is warmed through, approximately 5-7 minutes.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Transfer the gravy to a microwave-safe bowl or container.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to prevent splatters.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  4. If needed, continue heating in 30-second intervals until the gravy is hot.

• Double Boiler Method:

  1. Fill the bottom part of a double boiler with water and bring to a simmer.
  2. Place the gravy in the top part of the double boiler.
  3. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
  4. Heat until the gravy is thoroughly warmed, which should take about 10 minutes.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Pour the gravy into an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil.
  3. Heat in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  4. If the gravy is too thick, add a bit of vegetable broth or water and stir well before serving.

• Saucepan: A medium-sized saucepan is essential for cooking the onions, garlic, and forming the roux. It also allows for even heating when simmering the gravy.

• Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is perfect for stirring the onions and garlic, as well as mixing the flour to form the roux without scratching the pan.

• Whisk: A whisk is crucial for gradually incorporating the vegetable broth into the roux, ensuring a smooth and lump-free gravy.

• Measuring spoons: Accurate measuring spoons are needed to measure out the olive oil, flour, soy sauce, thyme, and black pepper.

• Measuring cup: A measuring cup is used to measure the vegetable broth accurately.

• Chef's knife: A sharp chef's knife is necessary for finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.

• Cutting board: A cutting board provides a safe and stable surface for chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.

• Garlic press: A garlic press can be used to quickly and efficiently mince the garlic cloves.

• Ladle: A ladle is useful for serving the gravy once it has thickened to the desired consistency.

Prep ingredients in advance: Chop the onion and mince the garlic ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-made broth: Opt for store-bought vegetable broth to save time on making your own.

Measure spices beforehand: Have the thyme, black pepper, and soy sauce ready to go in small bowls.

Make a larger batch: Double the recipe and freeze the extra gravy for future use.

Use a food processor: Quickly chop the onion and mince the garlic using a food processor.