Let me tell you, making gravy without drippings is a total game changer! Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking for a quick and easy sauce to elevate your meals, this simple recipe is my go-to. It’s rich and flavorful, yet so easy to whip up in just about 15 minutes. I love how it thickens beautifully, and you can customize the flavor to your liking with just a few pantry staples. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with complicated gravies! It’s perfect over mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even drizzled on a hearty grain bowl. You’ll feel like a kitchen superstar with this gravy in your arsenal!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 tablespoons butter – I always use unsalted butter for more control over the saltiness.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – This is what helps thicken your gravy to that perfect, luscious consistency.
- 2 cups vegetable broth – Use a good quality broth for maximum flavor. Homemade is best, but store-bought works just fine!
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce – This adds depth and a hint of umami. You can adjust to taste if you’re watching your sodium.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – A little garlic goes a long way in giving your gravy that comforting flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – This adds a nice sweetness that complements the garlic.
- Salt to taste – I usually wait until the end to adjust the salt so I don’t overdo it.
- Pepper to taste – Freshly cracked pepper is my favorite; it adds just the right kick!
How to Prepare Instructions
- Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Give it a little swirl to coat the bottom evenly; you’ll want that rich butter aroma to fill your kitchen!
- Once the butter is melted, add in the flour and whisk it vigorously until it’s all combined. This is your roux, and it should look smooth and creamy.
- Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes until it’s just lightly golden. This step is crucial because it brings out the nutty flavor of the flour. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t burn!
- Now, gradually whisk in the vegetable broth. I like to add it slowly at first to avoid lumps. Just keep whisking until everything is combined and smooth.
- Next, stir in the soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic happens! Taste as you go; you can adjust the seasonings to fit your flavor preferences.
- Bring your gravy to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps it thicken up nicely. Don’t forget to stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom!
- Once it’s thickened to your liking, take it off the heat and let it cool slightly before serving. Wow, your homemade gravy without drippings is ready to shine!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can whip up this gravy in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meal prep.
- No Drippings Needed: This recipe is a lifesaver when you don’t have meat drippings on hand, yet it’s just as rich and flavorful!
- Customizable Flavor: With simple ingredients, you can tweak the seasonings to suit your taste. Want it a bit spicier? Go for it! A little more soy sauce? Yes, please!
- Vegetarian-Friendly: A fantastic option for vegetarians and vegans, this gravy packs a punch of flavor without any animal products.
- Perfect Pairing: It’s incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even drizzled on grains for a wholesome meal.
- Easy to Store: Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to three days, so you can enjoy it again and again!
Tips for Success
- Watch the Roux: Be careful not to overcook your roux. It should be just lightly golden, so keep an eye on it! If it gets too dark, it can give your gravy a burnt taste.
- Whisk Constantly: When adding the broth, whisk continuously to prevent lumps. No one wants a chunky gravy, right? Just keep that whisk moving!
- Adjust to Taste: Don’t be shy about tasting as you go! This is your gravy, so make sure it’s seasoned just how you like it. You can always add more soy sauce or spices to amp up the flavor.
- Consistency Matters: If your gravy is too thick, you can easily whisk in a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, just let it simmer a little longer to thicken up.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Just remember to let it cool before sealing it up to avoid condensation!
- Reheat Gently: When reheating, do it on low heat and stir frequently. This way, you’ll keep that smooth texture without scorching it!
Nutritional Information Section
Now, let’s talk nutrition! Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect from a serving of this delicious gravy without drippings. Remember, the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this is just a general guideline:
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Enjoy this gravy guilt-free, knowing it’s a light yet flavorful addition to your meals! Just keep in mind that these values are approximate, and your actual numbers may vary a bit depending on the ingredients you choose.
FAQ Section
Can I make this gravy without vegetable broth?
Absolutely! You can use water or even a combination of water and a bit of miso paste for added depth. Just remember that using broth will give you a richer flavor.
Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, and you’ll have a delicious gravy without drippings that everyone can enjoy.
How can I make this gravy thicker?
If you want a thicker gravy, simply let it simmer longer, stirring occasionally. You can also mix a bit of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and whisk that in until you reach your desired thickness.
Can I add other seasonings?
Definitely! This is your chance to get creative. Try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a unique twist. Just taste as you go to find your perfect blend!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just remember to let it cool before sealing it up. When you’re ready to reheat, do it gently on the stove!
Serving Suggestions
Alright, let’s talk about how to make the most of your fabulous gravy without drippings! This rich, flavorful sauce is incredibly versatile and can elevate so many dishes. Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Mashed Potatoes: This is a classic combo! Just imagine creamy, buttery mashed potatoes smothered in your homemade gravy—it’s pure comfort food!
- Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle this gravy over a colorful medley of roasted veggies for a hearty and satisfying side dish. It adds that delicious umami kick!
- Rice or Quinoa Bowls: Spoon some gravy over a bowl of fluffy rice or quinoa, topped with your choice of proteins and veggies. It transforms a simple grain bowl into a gourmet meal!
- Biscuits: Oh my goodness, biscuits and gravy are a match made in heaven! Pour this savory goodness over warm, flaky biscuits for a delightful breakfast or brunch.
- Stuffed Peppers: Use this gravy as a sauce for stuffed peppers, adding moisture and flavor to the filling. It’s a great way to make a veggie-packed dish even more delicious!
- Pasta: Believe it or not, this gravy can also work wonders tossed with pasta. Add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a quick and tasty meal!
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your pairings! This gravy is like the cherry on top of your savory dishes, bringing everything together in a deliciously harmonious way. Enjoy experimenting and finding your favorite combos!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious gravy without drippings, let’s talk about how to store those tasty leftovers! First off, let your gravy cool down to room temperature before you store it. This helps prevent condensation from forming in the container, which can make the gravy watery.
Transfer any leftover gravy into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It will keep well for up to three days. If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to savor every last drop, so be sure to keep it tightly sealed!
When it’s time to reheat, do it gently on the stovetop over low heat. Just pour the gravy into a saucepan, and stir frequently to keep it from sticking or burning. If it’s thickened up a bit too much in the fridge, don’t worry! Just add a splash of water or broth to loosen it back up to your desired consistency. Keep stirring until it’s heated through and silky smooth again, and you’ll be ready to enjoy it all over again!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
Let’s chat about the ingredients in this gravy without drippings and how you can easily swap them out if needed! It’s all about flexibility, right?
- Butter: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, feel free to use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute. It works just as well and adds its own unique flavor!
- All-purpose flour: For a gluten-free version, just use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. If you go the cornstarch route, mix it with a bit of cold water first to create a slurry before adding it in.
- Vegetable broth: You can easily swap this for any other broth you prefer, like mushroom or chicken broth (if you’re not strictly vegetarian). Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary, so choose one that you enjoy!
- Soy sauce: If you’re watching your sodium or need a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos. They both provide that savory depth without the extra salt.
- Garlic and onion powder: Fresh garlic and onion work wonderfully too! Just sauté them in the butter before adding the flour for a more vibrant flavor. Use about 1 clove of garlic and 1/4 onion, finely chopped.
- Seasonings: Feel free to get creative! Adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate your gravy. Just remember to taste as you go!
These simple swaps ensure that you can make this gravy work for your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor! Enjoy experimenting with what you have on hand!
Print
Gravy Without Drippings: 7 Rich Alternatives You’ll Love
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple recipe for making gravy without drippings.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk until combined.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth.
- Add soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir occasionally until thickened.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stove, adding water if needed to thin.
- This gravy pairs well with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: gravy, gravy without drippings, vegetarian gravy
