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This Vegan Mushroom Gravy is a deliciously savory and healthy option, packed with mushrooms’ rich, umami flavor. This mushroom sauce can be easily adapted to suit various dietary requirements and is quick and simple to prepare.
It is a versatile addition to multiple dishes and special occasions, including holidays. I love it served over mashed potatoes.
The consistency of this gravy is smooth and velvety, with a rich thickness that elegantly coats the back of a spoon, offering a satisfying mouthfeel that is neither too runny nor overly thick. Still, you can adapt the consistency to your liking.
I discovered this sauce when I moved to the US and loved it! I used to prepare it with ingredients that I no longer consume. Then, I adapted the recipe when I learned how to make it with whole plant-based ingredients during my online cooking course, dictated by Fork over Knives. And this is a keeper, and I hope for you too!
This Vegan Mushroom Gravy is a boon for those with dietary restrictions. It’s free from common allergens like dairy, nuts, and eggs. Plus, with the option to use tamari, it’s entirely gluten-free as well.
WHY MUSHROOMS ARE GOOD FOR YOU
Mushrooms aren’t just a treat for your taste buds; they’re packed with nutrients, too!
They are low in calories yet high in fiber and protein, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet.
Rich in B vitamins, selenium, and antioxidants, mushrooms support your immune system and help combat inflammation.
Let’s see how to prepare them in this recipe.
HOW TO PREPARE THIS EASY VEGAN MUSHROOM GRAVY
(Please read the printable recipe card below for detailed ingredients, measurements, steps, and notes).
This recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. It uses easily available ingredients and requires basic kitchen skills, making it accessible to everyone. Combining fresh mushrooms and aromatic herbs provides a deep, comforting, and sophisticated flavor.
To make it, start by sautéing onions, garlic, and mushrooms in a non-stick pan, then add soy sauce, nutritional yeast, thyme, and rosemary, followed by vegetable broth and a cornstarch-water mixture to thicken, creating a rich and flavorful vegan mushroom gravy.
Let’s explore kitchen tools, the required ingredients, possible substitutions, and the steps with helpful pictures if needed.
USEFUL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
To prepare this delicious Vegan Mushroom Gravy recipe, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:
- A cutting board and a sharp knife for prepping veggies.
- A large non-stick pan/pot for sautéing.
- A whisk for blending the cornstarch or arrowroot powder.
Super simple. Now, let’s review the list of ingredients and potential substitutions in some cases.
INGREDIENTS NOTES
Here is a list of everything you will need to prepare this delicious recipe:
- Mushrooms: The star of the dish, providing a meaty texture and umami flavor. I like cremini or white buttons for this recipe.
- Onions and Garlic: Foundation flavors that add depth and aroma.
- Soy Sauce or Tamari: For a savory, salty kick. Tamari ensures a gluten-free option.
- Nutritional Yeast: Optional but recommended for a cheesy, nutty undertone.
- Vegetable Broth: The base of the gravy brings all flavors together harmoniously.
- Cornstarch/Arrowroot: These thickeners give the gravy its perfect consistency.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
DIRECTIONS WITH PICTURES
To prepare this delicious and easy Vegan Mushroom Gravy, start by prepping the veggies: Clean and slice the mushrooms, chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
Next, in a non-stick pan with a bit of water or broth, sauté the onions with a pinch of salt until translucent, then add garlic, followed by mushrooms, cooking until they brown.
Add flavor by stirring in soy sauce (or tamari), nutritional yeast, thyme, and rosemary, and cooking briefly to blend flavors.
Then add vegetable broth to the pan and bring to a simmer.
Now it’s time to make the gravy thick by whisking together cornstarch and water, then slowly stirring into the simmering mixture until thickened to your preference.
Adjust seasonings as needed and serve hot.
What you’ll love about this recipe? Well, you will find that it is:
- Rich and flavorful: The combination of mushrooms, aromatic herbs, and seasonings creates a deeply satisfying taste.
- Versatile: Pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, from mashed potatoes to vegan roasts.
- Easy to prepare: Simple and straightforward, making it accessible even for novice cooks.
- Health-Conscious: Vegan, making it suitable for plant-based diets and potentially gluten-free when using tamari.
- Allergen-Friendly: Free from common allergens like dairy, nuts, and eggs.
- Nutrient-Rich: Mushrooms offer beneficial nutrients like protein, fiber, and vitamins.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with different herbs or additional seasonings to suit personal taste preferences.
Let’s prepare this Vegan Mushroom Gravy!
WATCH THE STEP-BY-STEP VIDEO!
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PRINTABLE RECIPE CARD
EASY VEGAN MUSHROOM GRAVY (Oil and Gluten-Free)
Equipment
- 1 large pot (or large pan)
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 chopping board
- 1 chef knife
Ingredients
- 1 onion (large, finely chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (small, minced)
- 1 lb. mushrooms (fresh, like cremini or white button, clean and thinly sliced)
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
- 2 Tbsp nutritional yeast optional for a rich, for extra flavor
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried rosemary
- 2 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
- 3 Tbs cornstarch ( or arrowroot powder)
- ¼ cup water
- ½ tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1/8 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Prep the veggies: First, prep them by brushing the mushrooms with a wet paper towel and slicing them, chopping the onion, and mincing the garlic. Set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add a little water or vegetable broth in a large non-stick pan for water-sautéing. Add the onions, a pinch of salt, and sauté them for around 5 minutes or until the onion is translucent and lightly browned. Next, add minced garlic and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant. And last, add the sliced mushrooms. Cook over medium heat until the mushrooms release their juices. Their water evaporates, and they start to brown nicely around 10 minutes. Deglaze with a little bit of water or vegetable broth.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the soy sauce, nutritional yeast (if using), thyme, and rosemary*. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Create the Gravy Base: Pour the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a low simmer.
- Thicken the Gravy: In a small bowl, prepare the slurry, whisking together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the simmering gravy, stirring constantly. Cook and stir until the gravy reaches your desired thickness (5-10 minutes).
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust the seasonings, adding salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
- Serve: Serve hot over mashed potatoes or your favorite vegan dishes. Garnish with fresh, finely diced parsley (optional).
Notes
- • * You can add a splash of red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar along with the broth for a deeper flavor.
- Feel free to add other herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences.
- Soy sauce or tamari can be replaced by coconut aminos.
- If the gravy is too thick, thin it with more vegetable broth or water and cook until heated. If it is too thin, you can either let it simmer on the stove for a longer period to reduce and thicken or add another teaspoon of slurry.
- Blend cooked mushrooms and onions before adding the thickening agent for a smooth gravy. Be careful when blending hot liquids. After blending, strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve for an ultra-smooth texture.
- You can store the gravy in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months. In both cases, make sure to keep it in an airtight container. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays and transfer the frozen gravy cubes into a freezer bag. This way, you can thaw the amount you need for a single serving or small portions.
- For cleaning the mushrooms, gently wipe them with a damp cloth or paper towel if they are not so dirty. If your mushrooms are particularly dirty and a cloth doesn’t work, you can quickly rinse them under running water. Do this briefly and gently, and carefully pat them dry immediately.
- The recipe was inspired and adapted from my Forks Over Knives Ultimate Cooking Course.
WAYS TO ENJOY THIS VEGAN MUSHROOM GRAVY
This delicious vegan mushroom gravy is a versatile sauce. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:
- Over mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash for a comforting meal.
- As a sauce for your favorite vegan pasta.
- Drizzled over roasted vegetables or vegan meat substitutes.
- As a base for a hearty vegan stew or casserole.
And if you want to try more sides for the Holidays, check out these recipes:
Or pick any side you love on this blog.
To find a list of menu ideas for the Holidays, check out this recipe collection.
DID YOU MAKE THIS VEGAN MUSHROOM GRAVY?
Please leave a comment below, share it, or rate it.
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