Vegan Herb Gravy Recipe

Olive oil: Provides a rich base for sautéing the onions and garlic, adding a subtle fruity flavor.

Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the gravy, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Garlic: Infuses the gravy with a robust, aromatic flavor that complements the herbs.

All-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent, giving the gravy its smooth, velvety texture.

Vegetable broth: The liquid base of the gravy, adding a savory and umami-rich flavor.

Dried thyme: Adds a subtle earthy and slightly minty flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the gravy.

Dried rosemary: Contributes a pine-like, woody flavor that pairs well with the thyme.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the gravy, making them more pronounced.

Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity to the gravy, balancing the other flavors.

When adding the flour to the onion and garlic mixture, make sure to cook it for the full 1-2 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps to eliminate the raw taste of the flour and ensures a smoother, richer gravy.

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

• Onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and slightly sweeter taste, which can add a delicate flavor to the gravy.

• Garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic is unavailable, providing a similar flavor profile.

• All-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch is a gluten-free thickening agent that can create a smooth and glossy gravy.

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

• Dried thyme - Substitute with fresh thyme: Fresh thyme has a more vibrant and aromatic flavor compared to dried thyme.

• Dried rosemary - Substitute with fresh rosemary: Fresh rosemary provides a more intense and fragrant flavor than its dried counterpart.

• Salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory depth and umami flavor, reducing the need for additional salt.

• Pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder heat and a slightly different flavor profile, which can add a subtle complexity to the gravy.

• Allow the vegan herb gravy to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the gravy watery.

• Transfer the cooled gravy to an airtight container. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids are ideal as they prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in.

• For short-term storage, place the container in the refrigerator. The gravy will keep well for up to 5 days. Make sure to label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.

• If you plan to store the gravy for a longer period, freezing is the best option. Pour the gravy into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion as it freezes.

• Alternatively, you can use freezer bags. Lay the bags flat in the freezer to save space and ensure even freezing. This method also allows you to portion out the gravy, making it easier to thaw only what you need.

• When you're ready to use the frozen gravy, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. For a quicker thaw, place the sealed container or bag in a bowl of cold water.

• Reheat the gravy gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain a smooth consistency. If the gravy is too thick after reheating, you can whisk in a bit of vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.

• Avoid reheating the gravy multiple times, as this can affect its flavor and texture. Instead, reheat only the portion you plan to use.

• To enhance the flavor of reheated gravy, consider adding a splash of olive oil or a pinch of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary just before serving.

• Stovetop: Place the leftover vegan herb gravy in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the gravy has thickened too much, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach the desired consistency. Heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

• Microwave: Transfer the gravy to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to prevent splatters. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the gravy is hot and smooth. If needed, add a bit of vegetable broth or water to adjust the thickness.

• Double Boiler: For a gentler reheating method, use a double boiler. Fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a simmer. Place the gravy in the top pot and stir occasionally until heated through. This method helps prevent the gravy from scorching or separating.

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the gravy in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a bit of vegetable broth or water if the gravy appears too thick.

• Slow Cooker: If you have a bit more time, use a slow cooker to reheat the gravy. Set the slow cooker to the low setting and transfer the gravy into it. Cover and heat for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. This method is great for keeping the gravy warm for extended periods, especially during gatherings.

• Saucepan: A medium-sized saucepan is essential for cooking the onions, garlic, and for simmering the gravy.

• Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is perfect for stirring the onions and garlic to ensure they cook evenly without sticking.

• Whisk: A whisk is necessary for smoothly incorporating the flour and vegetable broth, preventing lumps.

• Measuring spoons: Accurate measuring spoons are needed to measure out the olive oil, flour, thyme, and rosemary.

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

• Knife: A sharp knife is required for finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.

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

• Stirring spoon: A stirring spoon can be used to mix the gravy as it simmers to ensure it thickens evenly.

• Ladle: A ladle is useful for serving the gravy once it’s ready.

• Timer: A timer helps keep track of the cooking times for each step to ensure the gravy is cooked perfectly.

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 the time needed to make it from scratch.

Measure spices beforehand: Have the thyme and rosemary measured and ready to go to avoid pausing during cooking.

Make a roux ahead: Prepare the flour and olive oil mixture (roux) in advance and store it in the fridge for quick use.

Simmer while multitasking: Let the gravy simmer while you prepare other parts of your meal.