Delicious Vegetarian Gravy Recipes

Gravy is one of the most essential parts of any savory dish, be it roast meats or vegetables. Normally, gravy is prepared using meat juices and the process can be quite tricky for vegetarian or vegan dishes. But fret not! There are several ways to make delicious gravy without using meat juices and still get that lip-smacking flavor and texture.

In this article, we’ll be discussing some simple and effective methods of making vegetarian or vegan friendly gravy that will perfectly complement your Thanksgiving or Christmas feast. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an amateur cook, this article has got you covered with easy to follow instructions and ingredients readily available in your kitchen. So let’s get ready to whip up some scrumptious gravy without using meat juices!

Subheading 1: What is Gravy?

Before diving into how to make gravy without meat juices, it’s important to first understand what gravy actually is. Gravy is a sauce made from the pan drippings of cooked meat that’s typically served with the meat. It can be used as a condiment to enhance the flavor of your food or as a base for other dishes.

Gravy is usually made using the pan drippings that are collected from roasted meats like beef, chicken, turkey, or pork. However, what do you do if you don’t have these juices on hand? Not to worry, there are several ways to make delicious gravy without meat juices. In this article, we’ll show you some easy and tasty ways to make gravy that will leave your guests begging for more.

Subheading 2: Vegetable Broth and Cornstarch

One of the easiest ways to make gravy without meat juices is by using vegetable broth and cornstarch. Begin by mixing two tablespoons of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Next, heat up one cup of vegetable broth in a saucepan until it boils. Once boiling, reduce the heat and mix in the cornstarch mixture. Keep stirring the mixture until it thickens to the consistency you desire. Add salt and pepper to taste and serve.

Subheading 3: Mushroom Gravy

If you’re a fan of mushrooms, then this recipe is for you. Start by sautéing sliced mushrooms, chopped onions, and minced garlic in a pan with a tablespoon of butter. Once the mushrooms have browned and the onions become translucent, sprinkle one tablespoon of flour on the mixture and stir for a couple of minutes until the flour is absorbed. Then pour in one cup of vegetable broth, stirring constantly. Add salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice for flavor. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently. Once you’ve reached the desired thickness, your mushroom gravy is ready to go.

Subheading 4: Red Wine Gravy

This recipe is perfect for those who like a rich and tangy flavor in their gravy. Begin by sautéing diced onions and garlic in a tablespoon of butter until they become translucent. Pour in one cup of red wine, stir continuously, and let the mixture simmer until half of the liquid has evaporated. Next, add two cups of vegetable broth, half a teaspoon of thyme, and balsamic vinegar to the pan. Continue to stir and let the mixture boil until it thickens. Once desired thickness is reached, your red wine gravy is ready to serve.

Subheading 5: Roasted Vegetable Gravy

Another great way to make gravy without meat juices is to use roasted vegetables. Start by prepping your favorite vegetables such as carrots, celery, onions, and garlic. Place them on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Roast in the oven at 400°F for 30-40 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Remove them from the oven and blend them in a food processor until smooth. Transfer the mixture to a saucepan, add two cups of vegetable broth, and bring to a simmer. Finally, add herbs and seasonings of your choice, and your roasted vegetable gravy is ready to be served.

Subheading 6: Tomato Gravy

If you’re looking for a gravy with a little tanginess, this tomato gravy recipe is the way to go. Start by sautéing finely chopped onions and peppers in a pan with olive oil until they soften. Next, add in a can of crushed tomatoes, followed by one cup of vegetable broth. Add one tablespoon of sugar and stir until combined. Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently. Once the sauce thickens to the desired consistency, your tomato gravy is ready to go.

Subheading 7: Coconut Milk Gravy

Coconut milk is a great alternative to cream or milk, especially for those who are vegan or lactose intolerant. To make coconut milk gravy, mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water, and set aside. In a saucepan, heat up one cup of coconut milk and add in the cornstarch mixture. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens. Add salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice for an extra flavor boost.

Subheading 8: Bechamel Sauce

Bechamel sauce is a classic French sauce that can be used as a base for gravy and many other dishes. Start by melting one tablespoon of butter in a saucepan and slowly add in one tablespoon of flour while stirring constantly. Once the flour and butter are combined, pour in two cups of warm milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice to your desired taste. Keep stirring the mixture until it thickens. Once the sauce reaches your desired thickness, your bechamel sauce is ready to be used as gravy.

Subheading 9: Lentil Gravy

Lentils are rich in protein and make for a great meat substitute. To make lentil gravy, begin by simmering one cup of lentils in a saucepan with two cups of vegetable broth until the lentils are tender. Blend the mixture in a food processor until it’s smooth. Transfer to a saucepan and add more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. Add salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice for flavor. Your lentil gravy is now ready to go.

Subheading 10: Final Thoughts

Making gravy without meat juices might seem daunting at first, but it’s actually quite easy and fun. With these different recipes, you can make delicious and flavorful gravies that are suitable for all types of diets. Whether you’re a vegan or simply want to switch things up, these recipes will be sure to please. Try out different combinations of herbs, spices, and seasonings to find the perfect match for your dish. So the next time you’re out of meat juices, don’t panic, just try one of these recipes instead and impress your guests with your creativity.

Vegetarian Gravy: Simple and Delicious

When it comes to gravy, the flavor of meat is often a key component. However, for those who lead a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, or simply want to reduce their meat consumption, it is possible to make a delicious gravy without relying on meat juices. Here are ten easy steps to create a vegetarian gravy that is both simple and delicious.

Step 1: Start with Mirepoix

Mirepoix is a combination of diced onion, celery, and carrot that is often used as a base in French cuisine. It’s a great starting point for vegetarian gravy, as it adds a subtle sweetness to the sauce. Simply chop the vegetables into small pieces, heat some oil in a saucepan, and fry until soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Some Umami

Meat is known for its umami flavor, which is often described as savory and meaty. However, vegetarians can achieve a similar depth of flavor with ingredients like mushrooms, soy sauce, or miso paste. Add these ingredients to the mirepoix and cook until the flavors have melded together.

Step 3: Use Flour as a Thickener

To give the gravy its characteristic thickness, flour is often used as a thickener. For a vegetarian version, simply use a non-animal-based flour such as whole wheat, rice, potato, or cornstarch. Mix the flour with water or vegetable broth and add it to the mirepoix mixture, stirring constantly until it thickens.

Step 4: Make a Roux

Roux is a classic French technique used to thicken sauces and gravies. To make a vegetarian roux, simply heat equal parts flour and butter or oil in a saucepan until it turns a golden brown color. This adds a nutty flavor to the sauce and helps it thicken properly.

Step 5: Add Vegetable Broth

Vegetable broth is the perfect substitute for meat broth in a vegetarian gravy. Simply add enough vegetable broth to the thickened roux to create the desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker gravy, add less broth, or use cornstarch as a thickener instead of flour.

Step 6: Use Herbs and Spices

Herbs and spices can add extra flavor to vegetarian gravy, so feel free to experiment with different combinations. Some classic herbs for gravy include thyme, sage, and rosemary, while spices like black pepper and nutmeg can add some warmth and depth. Don’t be afraid to try something new!

Step 7: Add Some Acid

Acidic ingredients like vinegar or lemon juice can help balance out the rich flavors of the gravy. Add a small amount of acid to taste, and adjust as necessary. Be careful not to add too much, as it can make the gravy too sour.

Step 8: Simmer Until Thickened

Once you’ve added all your ingredients, simmer the gravy on low heat until it has thickened to your liking. This will allow the flavors to meld together and create a rich, savory sauce.

Step 9: Strain if Necessary

If you prefer a smooth gravy, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps or bits of vegetable. This will give the sauce a velvety texture that’s perfect for coating mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or anything else you like.

Step 10: Enjoy!

Your vegetarian gravy is now ready to be enjoyed. Pour it over your favorite dishes, and savor the rich, savory flavor without any meat juices. With these simple steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying sauce that’s perfect for any occasion.

Alternatives to Meat Juices for Gravy

If you’re a vegetarian or simply don’t have any meat juices on hand, don’t worry! There are a variety of ingredients that can be used as alternatives to meat juices when making gravy. In this section, we will explore some of these alternatives and how to use them to make delicious gravy.

1. Vegetable Broth

Vegetable broth is a flavorful liquid made from simmering vegetables, herbs, and spices. It can be used as a base for gravy, especially if you want to keep your gravy vegetarian. You can either make your own vegetable broth by simmering a variety of vegetables and spices in water or purchase it from the store. To use vegetable broth in your gravy, simply replace the meat juices with an equal amount of vegetable broth.

2. Mushroom Broth

Mushroom broth is another great alternative to meat juices for gravy. It’s made from simmering mushrooms in water and can be used to add depth of flavor to vegetarian gravies. You can either make your own mushroom broth by simmering fresh mushrooms or purchase it from the store. To use mushroom broth in your gravy, replace the meat juices with an equal amount of mushroom broth.

3. Red Wine

If you’re looking for a richer, more complex flavor in your gravy, consider adding red wine. Not only does red wine add depth of flavor, but it also helps to thicken the gravy. You can use any dry red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Pinot Noir. Simply add a splash of red wine to the gravy and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

4. Soy Sauce

Soy sauce is a great ingredient to add to gravy for a rich umami flavor. It adds depth and richness to the gravy, making it more satisfying. You can either use traditional soy sauce or tamari, which is a wheat-free soy sauce. Simply add a few teaspoons of soy sauce to the gravy and adjust to taste.

5. Cornstarch Slurry

If you’re looking to thicken your gravy without meat juices or flour, consider using a cornstarch slurry. A cornstarch slurry is made by mixing cornstarch and water together until smooth. To use a cornstarch slurry in your gravy, simply stir in a small amount at a time until the desired thickness is reached. Be sure to stir the gravy constantly when adding the slurry to prevent clumps.

Using these alternatives to meat juices allows for a variety of delicious and unique gravies that are suitable for any dietary restrictions. Experiment and have fun with the different flavors and ingredients to create a gravy that is perfect for your next meal.

Happy Gravy Making!

And voila, now you know how to make a delicious gravy without the use of meat juices! It’s definitely a great option for those who follow a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle or for those who simply don’t have any meat juices on hand. Hopefully, this article has been helpful and has inspired you to get creative in the kitchen. Thanks for reading and don’t forget to visit again later for more easy and scrumptious recipes!