Summary: I’m addicted to gravy! For some reason, when I was younger, I thought that the only veg or vegan gravy came from pre made mixes that were ‘accidentally’ vegan. But boy was I wrong! Almost 20 years ago a chef friend told me about Massel brand stock powders, which are 100% vegan. Even their ‘meat’ flavours like chicken and beef and even bacon are vegan! They are available in most supermarkets in Australia but their website says they are worldwide. I prefer the powders over the cubes and I haven’t tried the pre mixed packs of liquid stock. I use the ‘chicken style’ the most and I’m known for being heavy handed but let taste guide you. I also use Worcestershire sauce in this recipe, which traditionally contains anchovies. A local brand Berenberg has a version that is vegan and I’ve found a few cheaper store brands are also vegan. Do the research and choose wisely. If you can’t find a vegan Worcestershire, sub for a tiny splash of balsamic.
Ingredients
- 50g butter or vegan buttery spread
- 2 tblsp plain flour
- 1 1/2 – 2 cups stock
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme, crushed before adding
- 1 tsp vegan Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp soy sauce or tamari
- Black pepper to taste, I find lots is best!
- 1 tsp Parisienne essence/gravy browning (optional)
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan and a add the flour and cook for one minute, whisking constantly.
- Add 1 cup stock and whisk until thickened.
- Add all other ingredients continue to stir/whisk until combined. Add more stock, while still stirring, until the desired consistency is reached.
- Taste to check seasoning and serve.
Variations
There are endless variations! Sometimes I add a finely minced small onion or shallot at step one. If I want a more festive gravy I add more thyme and little sage or rosemary. Fresh garlic at the last bit of step one or garlic or onion powder later. Sometimes I add a tiny drop of hot sauce for a background warmth or a pinch of cumin for something with an earthier tone. My Mum famously makes a mango gravy for special occasions. She makes gravy with minced onion at step one drains a tin of mango, slices and adds before serving. Go with what makes you happy!
Leave A Reply