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The Ultimate 5-Ingredient Vegan Mushroom Gravy: Rich, Savory, and Effortless

Transform your meals with this incredibly rich, deeply savory, and completely vegan mushroom gravy. Crafted with just five simple ingredients, this plant-based marvel is designed to elevate any dish, from festive holiday feasts to comforting weeknight dinners. Imagine a velvety smooth gravy, bursting with the earthy goodness of mushrooms, coating your fluffy mashed potatoes, adding depth to your savory stuffing, or perfectly complementing your favorite roasted vegetables. This recipe isn’t just for vegans; it’s a culinary delight that appeals to everyone at the table, proving that plant-based doesn’t mean compromising on flavor or texture. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly easy to master, and promises to become a staple in your kitchen.

A spoonful of tender, perfectly cooked mushrooms being lifted out of a creamy white bowl of homemade vegan mushroom gravy, showcasing its rich texture and enticing color. — Experience the luxurious texture of our homemade vegan mushroom gravy.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Vegan Mushroom Gravy

This isn’t just another gravy recipe; it’s a game-changer for anyone seeking flavor, simplicity, and inclusivity in their cooking. Here’s why this vegan mushroom gravy will quickly become your new favorite:

Unparalleled Flavor & Richness: Unlike traditional gravies that often rely on meat drippings, this mushroom gravy achieves an extraordinary depth of flavor and a luscious richness from the mushrooms themselves. The natural umami of the fungi creates a savory profile that is simply beyond delicious, offering an earthy complexity that other gravies often lack. It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor in every spoonful.
Incredibly Simple with Just 5 Ingredients: You read that right – only five core ingredients stand between you and this sensational gravy! This minimalist approach not only makes the recipe approachable for cooks of all skill levels but also means you likely already have most of what you need in your pantry. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something truly extraordinary.
Versatile & Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re serving it at a grand holiday dinner or drizzling it over a casual weeknight meal, this gravy is perfectly adaptable. It’s a fantastic topping for classic mashed potatoes, a delightful addition to plant-based stuffing, or a savory enhancer for roasted vegetables. Its vegan nature ensures that everyone at your table, regardless of dietary preferences, can enjoy a generous helping.
Naturally Dairy-Free & Easily Gluten-Free: For those with dietary restrictions or who choose a plant-based lifestyle, this gravy is a dream come true. It’s naturally dairy-free and can be easily adapted to be gluten-free by simply swapping regular all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative. This makes it a perfect, worry-free option for inclusive entertaining.

Expert Tips for a Flawless Vegan Mushroom Gravy

Achieving the perfect vegan mushroom gravy is simpler than you might think, especially with these insider tips to guide you:

Mushroom Preparation is Key: While convenience is king, proper mushroom prep enhances flavor and texture. If you’re short on time, opt for pre-sliced mushrooms. Otherwise, use fresh white button or baby bella mushrooms. Remember to wipe mushrooms clean with a soft brush or a damp paper towel instead of rinsing them under water. Mushrooms are like sponges and will absorb water, leading to a less concentrated flavor and potentially a watery gravy. If using pre-sliced mushrooms, they’ve typically been cleaned before packaging, so you can skip this step.
Achieving Depth of Flavor through Browning: Don’t rush the sautéing process. Allowing the mushrooms to cook thoroughly until all their liquid has evaporated and they begin to brown is crucial. This step concentrates their natural flavors and develops that deep, earthy umami that makes this gravy so special. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
Mastering the Roux: The roux (the mixture of oil and flour) is the foundation of your gravy’s silky texture. After adding the flour to the saucepan, make sure to stir everything really thoroughly. Cook the flour for a few minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s lightly browned. This cooks out the raw flour taste and adds a nutty undertone. If you notice any clumps forming, immediately switch to a whisk to break them up and ensure a perfectly smooth base. The gravy should be velvety smooth when it’s done, with no trace of flour lumps.
Gradual Broth Addition for Smoothness: When it’s time to add the vegetable broth, pour in just one cup initially. Stir vigorously until it forms a thick paste with the roux, incorporating completely. This method helps prevent lumps more effectively than adding all the liquid at once. Once the first cup is fully integrated, gradually pour in the remaining broth, stirring continuously until everything is smooth and combined.
Simmer for Perfection: Patience is a virtue when it comes to gravy. After adding the broth, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the gravy to thicken gradually to your desired consistency. Stir often to prevent the gravy from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensure even thickening.
Season to Taste: Always taste your gravy before serving and adjust the seasoning. The saltiness of vegetable broths can vary, so add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed to achieve a balanced and robust flavor profile.

A elegant ceramic white gravy boat filled with rich, glossy vegan mushroom gravy, positioned next to a steaming bowl of fluffy mashed potatoes generously topped with the same savory gravy. — Perfect for holidays or everyday indulgence – this gravy complements any side.

The Magic Behind 5 Simple Ingredients

It’s remarkable how a handful of staple ingredients can come together to create such a profound and satisfying flavor. Each of the five components plays a crucial role in building the irresistible taste and texture of this vegan mushroom gravy:

Refined Coconut Oil or Avocado Oil: This is our healthy fat base. Refined coconut oil is preferred for its neutral flavor, which won’t overpower the delicate mushroom notes. Avocado oil is another excellent choice for its high smoke point and mild taste. These oils are essential for sautéing the garlic and mushrooms, as well as forming the roux.
Minced Garlic: Garlic is the aromatic heart of this gravy. Minced garlic, whether fresh or from a jar, provides a pungent, savory base that complements the earthiness of the mushrooms beautifully. It adds a layer of warmth and complexity that is indispensable. Adjust the amount to your personal taste – some prefer a bolder garlic presence.
Sliced Mushrooms (White or Baby Bella): The star of the show! Mushrooms are packed with umami, a savory taste that mimics the richness often found in meat-based gravies. White button mushrooms offer a mild, classic flavor, while baby bella (cremini) mushrooms provide a deeper, earthier taste. Slicing them ensures they cook down evenly and integrate well into the gravy.
All-Purpose Flour: This is our primary thickening agent, forming the crucial roux that gives the gravy its smooth, luscious consistency. Browning the flour with the oil not only cooks out the raw taste but also adds a subtle nutty depth of flavor to the finished product. For a gluten-free version, simply substitute with a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth: The liquid foundation of our gravy. Using low-sodium broth is important because it gives you control over the final salt content, allowing the flavors of the mushrooms and garlic to shine without being overwhelmed by excessive saltiness. Vegetable broth infuses the gravy with a savory base that perfectly complements the other ingredients. Dividing the broth and adding it gradually is a key technique for ensuring a lump-free, perfectly smooth gravy.

While salt and freshly ground black pepper are used for seasoning, they are considered staples and not part of the core five ingredients, allowing the simplicity of the main components to stand out.

Serving Suggestions for Your Savory Gravy

This versatile vegan mushroom gravy isn’t just for holidays; it’s a year-round flavor enhancer. Here are some incredible ways to enjoy its rich, savory goodness:

Classic Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate pairing! Drizzle generously over creamy mashed potatoes for an unbeatable comfort food experience.
Stuffing & Dressing: Elevate your holiday stuffing or everyday dressing with a ladleful of this flavorful gravy. It adds moisture and a deep, savory punch.
Roasted Vegetables: Transform simple roasted carrots, green beans, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus into a gourmet side dish.
Vegan Roasts & Loaves: Perfect for coating a savory lentil loaf, a store-bought vegan roast, or homemade plant-based cutlets.
Pasta & Noodles: Toss with wide eggless noodles or your favorite pasta for a quick and comforting mushroom pasta dish.
Rice Bowls & Grains: Spoon over brown rice, quinoa, or farro to add incredible flavor and moisture to your grain bowls.
Open-Faced Sandwiches: Create a delectable open-faced sandwich with slices of crusty bread, a plant-based protein, and plenty of warm gravy.
Breakfast Burritos & Tofu Scramble: For an unexpected twist, add a touch of gravy to a savory breakfast burrito or a tofu scramble.
Poutine (Vegan Style): Pair with crispy oven fries and vegan cheese curds for a plant-based take on the classic Canadian dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Vegan Mushroom Gravy

Got questions about making or storing this delicious gravy? We’ve got answers:

Can I make this gravy gluten-free?: Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure your vegetable broth is also certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain hidden gluten or cross-contaminants.
What other types of mushrooms can I use?: While white button and baby bella (cremini) mushrooms are excellent choices, feel free to experiment with others! Sliced shiitake mushrooms will add an even deeper umami flavor, while oyster mushrooms offer a slightly different texture. Just ensure they are properly cleaned and sautéed until tender.
How do I store leftover vegan mushroom gravy?: Allow the gravy to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, whisking frequently, until it’s warmed through and smooth again.
Can I freeze this mushroom gravy?: Yes, this gravy freezes beautifully! Once cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight freezer-safe container or freezer bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw the gravy in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, whisking well until smooth and hot.
My gravy is lumpy. How can I fix it?: Lumpy gravy is usually a sign that the flour wasn’t fully incorporated. Don’t worry, it’s fixable! You can use an immersion blender directly in the saucepan to smooth out any lumps. Alternatively, carefully pour the gravy into a blender and process until smooth, then return it to the saucepan to reheat.
How can I make the gravy thicker or thinner?: If your gravy is too thin, create a slurry by whisking a teaspoon of flour (or cornstarch/arrowroot powder for GF) with an equal amount of cold water until smooth. Whisk this mixture into the simmering gravy and cook for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired thickness. If it’s too thick, simply whisk in a splash more vegetable broth until it thins to your preference.
What can I use instead of flour for thickening?: For a flour-free or gluten-free alternative, you can use cornstarch or arrowroot powder. For every ¼ cup of flour, you’ll typically use 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or 2 tablespoons of arrowroot powder, mixed with an equal amount of cold water to form a slurry, then whisked into the simmering liquid.

Dietary Considerations & Health Benefits

Embracing plant-based eating offers numerous benefits, and this vegan mushroom gravy is no exception. Mushrooms are a nutritional powerhouse, low in calories, and rich in essential vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, selenium, potassium, and vitamin D (especially if UV-exposed). They are also a fantastic source of antioxidants and have been studied for their immune-boosting properties. By choosing a refined oil and low-sodium broth, this recipe allows you to enjoy a flavorful, comforting dish that aligns with a healthy lifestyle. It’s a wonderful way to add more vegetables and nutrient density to your meals without sacrificing taste.

More Delicious Plant-Based Recipes for Your Table

If you loved this vegan mushroom gravy, you’ll be thrilled to explore more incredible plant-based and healthy recipes:

Creamy Whipped Potatoes
Vegan Pie Crust
Cranberry Salsa
Grilled Turkey Breast
Keto Cranberry Sauce
Vegan Potato Soup
Texas Roadhouse Green Beans
No-Bake Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
Vegan Pecan Pie
Sweet Potato Waffles
Pumpkin Ice Cream (No Ice Cream Machine Needed!)
Vegan Apple Pie

Vegan Mushroom Gravy

Prep:
15 minutes

Cook:
45 minutes

Total:
1 hour

Rich, savory mushroom gravy – completely vegan-friendly and made with only 5 ingredients. Include this simple gravy on your holiday table and everyone will feel included around your holiday table!

Cheryl Malik

Print Recipe

Servings: 4 cups

Ingredients

¼ cup refined coconut oil or avocado oil
2 teaspoons minced garlic (approximately 2 large cloves, more or less to taste)
16 ounces sliced mushrooms (white mushrooms or baby bella mushrooms)
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper to taste
¼ cup all-purpose flour
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (or vegetable stock, divided)

Equipment

medium saucepan
large wooden spoon
whisk

Instructions

Place a medium saucepan on the stovetop over medium heat. Add ¼ cup refined coconut oil (or avocado oil) to the saucepan and heat until melted and shimmering.
When the oil is hot, add 2 teaspoons minced garlic to the saucepan. Sauté the garlic for 30 to 60 seconds, stirring occasionally, until it becomes fragrant.
Once the garlic is fragrant, add 16 ounces sliced mushrooms and stir to incorporate. Season the mushrooms with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Sauté the mushrooms, stirring occasionally, for approximately 10 minutes or until all their liquid has evaporated and they begin to brown slightly.
Once the mushroom liquid has evaporated, add ¼ cup all-purpose flour to the saucepan. Stir thoroughly to incorporate the flour with the oil and mushrooms, then brown the flour for approximately 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
When the flour is nicely browned, pour in just 1 of the 4 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth. Stir briskly with a whisk until the broth is fully incorporated into the flour mixture, forming a thick paste. Then, gradually pour in the remaining vegetable broth and continue to stir until smooth.
Reduce the heat under the saucepan to medium-low. Simmer the mixture, stirring often, for 20 to 25 minutes or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
Once the gravy has thickened, taste it and season with additional salt and/or black pepper as needed. Transfer the gravy to a serving vessel and serve warm.

Notes

Make it Gluten-Free: To ensure your gravy is gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour. Additionally, always check that your vegetable broth does not contain any gluten or cross-contaminants.
Leftovers: Store any leftover gravy by transferring it to an airtight container. Allow it to cool completely before sealing the container and refrigerating for up to 1 week. Reheat the gravy gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, whisking frequently until thoroughly warmed through and smooth.
Freezer Option: For longer storage, this gravy freezes well. Transfer the completely cooled gravy to an airtight, freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. To serve, defrost the gravy in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, whisking well until warmed through and smooth.

Nutrition Information

Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.