I remember the first time I had a good vegan gravy-it was a revelation. Until then, I thought all gravies had to have meat drippings. But when I tried a homemade vegan version at a friend’s house, it completely changed my view. That warm, savory pour-over made me realize how versatile and rich plant-based gravies could be. Fast forward to discovering Jamie Oliver’s recipe, and I was hooked. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a comforting classic, but with a twist. I’ve made it countless times since, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser, even among non-vegans.
Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Gravy Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s vegan gravy is a game-changer. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfectly complements everything from mashed potatoes to roast veggies. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity-no complicated ingredients or steps, just real, whole flavors.
When I first tried it, I was skeptical. Could a gravy without meat really taste like ’gravy’? The answer was a resounding yes! It’s savory, earthy, and with just the right depth. If you’re like me and grew up with a traditional meat-based gravy, this one will definitely surprise you in the best way.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need for Jamie’s vegan gravy:
- Olive oil: It’s the base fat for sautéing and adds a rich texture.
- Onion: Chopped finely, it gives sweetness and depth to the gravy.
- Carrot: Adds a bit of natural sweetness and body to the sauce.
- Celery: A classic base veggie that adds a subtle earthiness.
- Garlic: For that aromatic kick.
- Mushrooms: The star ingredient for umami-these bring the savory depth you expect from a good gravy.
- Soy sauce: For saltiness and that essential umami flavor.
- Vegetable stock: Forms the base of the gravy and brings all the flavors together.
- Cornstarch: To thicken it and give it that smooth texture.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary are great, but you can get creative with whatever you have on hand.
- Balsamic vinegar: Adds acidity and rounds out the flavors with a touch of sweetness.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Gravy
Making this gravy is simple and straightforward. Here’s how it goes:
- Prep the veggies: Dice the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Chop the mushrooms finely to help them break down faster in the cooking process.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Toss in the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, and cook them until soft and slightly caramelized. This brings out their natural sweetness and flavor.
- Add the mushrooms: Stir in the mushrooms and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and release their moisture. This is where the gravy starts to get that deep, savory base.
- Add the liquids: Pour in the vegetable stock and soy sauce. Stir well, scraping any bits off the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Thicken the gravy: In a small bowl, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water to make a slurry. Slowly add this to the gravy while stirring to thicken it to your desired consistency.
- Season and finish: Add balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to taste. If you like it extra herby, throw in a sprig of thyme or rosemary. Let it cook for a few more minutes, then strain the gravy to remove any chunky bits for a smooth pour.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s break down a few ingredients and why they work so well in this recipe:
- Mushrooms: These guys are packed with umami, which is the ’savory’ flavor. Mushrooms like shiitake or cremini are perfect for adding that depth you usually get from meat. They release glutamates when cooked, which give the gravy that meaty taste without using any animal products.
- Soy sauce: It’s not just for stir-fries! The soy sauce adds a salty and umami-rich depth to the gravy. It also enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables, making everything more savory.
- Balsamic vinegar: A touch of acidity is essential to balance out the richness of the gravy. The balsamic vinegar adds a slight sweetness and brightness to the sauce, so it doesn’t taste too heavy.
Expert Tips
- Don’t skimp on the mushrooms: The more mushrooms, the more depth. If you’re a fan of rich, flavorful gravy, add a few extra handfuls.
- Adjust the consistency: If you like your gravy thick, add more cornstarch. If you prefer a thinner, more pourable gravy, reduce the amount of cornstarch or let it cook for a little longer to reduce the liquid.
- Strain for smoothness: If you want a silky-smooth gravy, make sure to strain it. The bits of vegetable and mushroom can make it chunky, so straining ensures that velvety texture we all crave.
- Herb alternatives: Fresh thyme and rosemary work beautifully, but if you don’t have them, try sage or bay leaves for a different flavor profile.
Recipe Variations
- Mushroom medley: If you love mushrooms, try using a mix of different kinds. Oyster, shiitake, and portobello mushrooms can all add unique flavors.
- Smokier version: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a deeper, smokier flavor.
- Add a splash of wine: A dry white or red wine can bring an extra layer of depth to the gravy. Just simmer it in with the stock to let the alcohol cook off.
- Spicy twist: For those who like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Nut-based creaminess: If you want a creamier gravy, blend in some cashews or almonds after the cooking process. This adds richness and texture.
Final Words
This vegan gravy is one of those recipes that makes you realize how delicious plant-based meals can be. It’s a great choice for holiday dinners, comfort food nights, or anytime you need a savory, comforting sauce. It’s versatile, adaptable, and absolutely packed with flavor. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself drizzling it over everything-potatoes, roast veggies, even toast!
FAQs
Is Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Gravy Recipe Easy To Make?
Yes, it’s simple. You just need a few ingredients and some time to simmer the flavors.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Gravy Ahead Of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day or two in advance and reheat when needed.
What Can I Use Instead Of Vegetable Stock For Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Gravy?
You can try using mushroom stock or even a homemade broth if you want a richer taste.