Brown Gravy (No Drippings Needed)
If you’ve ever wanted a rich, flavorful brown gravy without the fuss of meat drippings, you’re in the right place. This Brown Gravy (No Drippings Needed) recipe is a simple, reliable way to add savory depth to your meals. It’s perfect over mashed potatoes, roasts, or even snacks like savory fries or soft pretzels. The best part? It’s easy enough to whip up anytime with just a few pantry staples.
Why You’ll Love It
This gravy is incredibly versatile and comes together quickly. Unlike traditional recipes that rely on pan drippings, this version uses broth and a classic roux base to build deep flavor. Whether you’re vegetarian or just skipping drippings, it delivers homemade, comforting taste every time.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or dairy-free alternative)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (sub gluten-free flour if desired)
- 2 cups beef broth, vegetable broth, or mushroom broth
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, adds umami)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Sensible substitutions: Use olive oil instead of butter to keep it dairy-free. Vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian version, while mushroom broth adds earthy tones.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture turns a golden brown color. This step is key for flavor and color.
- Gradually whisk in the broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add soy sauce if using, then bring the gravy to a gentle simmer.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until thickened to your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm over your favorite foods.
For more comforting sauces, check out Classic White Gravy and Homemade Tomato Sauce.
Expert Tips
Make sure to cook the roux until it’s a deep golden brown for the best flavor depth. Whisk constantly when adding broth to avoid lumps. If your gravy becomes too thick, thin it gently with more broth or water. Want it richer? Stir in a splash of cream or butter at the end.
Storage
Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a little broth if it has thickened too much. You can also freeze the gravy for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations
- Vegan: Use plant-based butter and vegetable or mushroom broth.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch (use half the cornstarch amount).
- Dairy-Free: Replace butter with olive oil or vegan margarine.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and soy sauce or omit soy sauce altogether.
FAQ
Q: Can I make Brown Gravy (No Drippings Needed) ahead of time?
A: Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes nicely.
Q: What broth works best for this gravy?
A: Beef broth gives the richest flavor, but vegetable or mushroom broth makes great vegetarian alternatives.
Q: How do I fix lumpy gravy?
A: Vigorously whisk while adding broth or strain the gravy through a fine sieve.
Q: Can this Brown Gravy (No Drippings Needed) be thickened more?
A: Yes, whisk an extra teaspoon of flour mixed with cold water into the hot gravy and cook for a few minutes more.
Call to Action
Ready to elevate your meals with this easy homemade brown gravy? Leave a comment below sharing how you used it, rate the recipe if you enjoyed it, and save it for later. Don’t forget to share with friends who love delicious homemade sauces! For more savory favorites, check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners collection and visit trusted sites like the Food Network for extra inspiration.
