While we are making gravy without traditional broth, we can still create a flavorful foundation by crafting our homemade vegetable broth. This broth will serve as the base for our gravy, enhancing its taste and depth. To make the vegetable broth, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 large carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups of water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they become tender and slightly caramelized.
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for a minute until its aroma fills the kitchen.
Pour in the water and add the bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
Strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer, discarding the solids. Now your homemade vegetable broth is ready to elevate the flavors of your gravy.
Creamy Mushroom Gravy: A Vegan Delight
For our first gravy recipe, we'll be making a creamy and vegan-friendly mushroom gravy. This luscious gravy pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even tofu-based dishes.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of sliced mushrooms (choose your favorite variety)
- 1/4 cup of plant-based butter
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of homemade vegetable broth (from the previous section)
- 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a saucepan, melt the plant-based butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them until they become tender and release their juices.
Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the gravy.
Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while stirring to avoid lumps in the gravy.
Add the almond milk, soy sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let the gravy simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.
Once the gravy thickens and the flavors meld together, remove it from the heat. Serve hot over your favorite dishes, and enjoy the delectable taste of this vegan mushroom gravy.
Red Wine Shallot Gravy: An Elegant Twist
For those seeking an elevated and sophisticated gravy option, we present the red wine shallot gravy. This luxurious gravy is perfect for special occasions and complements dishes like roasted chicken, beef tenderloin, or seared pork.
Ingredients:
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of red wine
- 1 1/2 cups of homemade vegetable broth
- 1 sprig of fresh thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallots and sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the shallots and stir to form a roux.
Pour in the red wine, stirring constantly to deglaze the pan and incorporate the flour.
Add the homemade vegetable broth, fresh thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Allow the gravy to simmer and reduce until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Remove the sprig of thyme and bay leaf before serving this elegant red wine shallot gravy to your guests. They will be impressed by the rich and indulgent flavors that perfectly complement your main dish.
Creating gravy without broth doesn't mean compromising on taste. These recipes prove that with a little creativity, you can craft gravies that are equally, if not more, delicious than their traditional counterparts. So, whether you're looking for vegan options or a touch of elegance, these gravies will undoubtedly elevate your culinary experience.
