This vegan onion gravy is rich, savory, and simple to make. Enjoy it over everything from mashed potatoes to lentil loaves to hearty vegan roasts. Whether you're cooking for the holidays or just craving a cozy weeknight meal, this easy and flavorful recipe never disappoints.
This is the gravy I come back to again and again. It's quick, incredibly delicious, and ready in under 30 minutes.
The caramelized onions bring a rich, savory depth that makes this gravy irresistible. Blending the gravy not only creates a smooth texture but also helps bring the flavors together for maximum taste. The result is a pourable sauce that's perfect for drizzling over a variety of dishes.
Ingredients You'll Need
You only need four simple ingredients to make this flavorful vegan onion gravy.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
- Vegetable broth - I used vegetable Better Than Bouillon paste for the broth. Feel free to use any broth you have on hand. If you're using low-sodium broth, you may need to adjust the salt to your liking.
- Onion - I prefer white onion for this gravy. When caramelized, it gives the gravy a rich flavor. However, any fresh onion will work.
- All-purpose flour - The flour is used to make the roux. To make gluten-free gravy, use any 1:1 GF flour.
- Oil - Refined coconut oil is my go-to for this gravy because it has a neutral flavor. Any neutral oil or vegan butter can be used.
- Optional salt and black pepper - If you are using bouillon cubes or bouillon paste, you may not need to add extra salt. It's always best to taste the gravy first, then season with salt and pepper if needed.
Instructions to Make Onion Gravy
Make this easy vegan gravy in four steps and less than 30 minutes.
Step 1. Sauté the onion in 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat until softened and slightly caramelized.
Step 2. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil to the pan and allow it to melt. Add 6 tablespoons of flour and cook over medium-low, stirring constantly, until the mixture is browned and fragrant. This forms the roux.
Step 3. Slowly pour in 3 cups of broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.
Step 4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a high-speed blender) to blend the gravy until smooth. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.
Storage and Reheating
- Fridge: Let the gravy cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
- Freezer: Pour it into a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it's too thick, add a bit of water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and savory vegan onion gravy pairs perfectly with a wide range of plant-based dishes.
Serve it with mashed potatoes for a classic side dish. Add vegan sausage for a cozy "bangers and mash" plate. Complete the meal with peas or roasted vegetables.
Pour this vegan gravy over crispy roasted potatoes or a medley of root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes. It's also delicious on stuffed mushrooms or peppers.
Beyond the classics, gravy adds depth to dishes like nut roast, lentil loaf, or vegan shepherd's pie.
Try it ladled over grain bowls with brown rice or barley, or use it as a sauce for grilled tofu or tempeh to boost the flavor. Or drizzle it over fries topped with vegan cheese for a plant-based poutine.
Any way you enjoy it, this onion gravy brings heartiness and warmth to your plate, especially in the cooler months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this onion gravy can be made ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes better the next day since the flavors have more time to come together.
Making it in advance can also save time, especially when you're planning a holiday meal. For reheating instructions, see the reheating section above.
For the best flavor, blending the onions into the gravy is recommended. Skipping this step will result in chunkier gravy with a milder taste.
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Recipe
Vegan Onion Gravy
Ingredients
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 large white, yellow, or vidalia onion, chopped (1 full cup)
- 6 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 Tablespoons neutral oil, or vegan butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, sauté the onion in 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat until softened and slightly caramelized.1 large white, yellow, or vidalia onion
- To make the roux, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil to the pan and allow it to melt. Stir in the flour and cook over medium-low heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour is lightly browned.6 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Slowly pour in the broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking, whisking occasionally, until the gravy thickens.3 cups vegetable broth
- Using an immersion blender to blend the onion until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- Broth - I use 3 teaspoons of Better Than Bouillon mixed with 3 cups of water and don't add extra salt.
- Blending - This step is necessary to give the gravy its full flavor. Skipping it will result in a gravy that's noticeably less flavorful. If you prefer a chunkier texture, cook a little extra onion and set it aside. After blending, stir in the cooked onion.
Nutrition
**Nutritional info is provided as an estimate based on the ingredients I used and for convenience and as a courtesy only.**
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