How to Make French Herb-Infused Vegetarian Gravy

If you're looking for a delicious way to elevate your vegetarian dishes, making French herb-infused vegetarian gravy is an excellent choice. This savory gravy packed with aromatic herbs can enhance the flavor of your meals. Whether you pour it over roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or tofu, this recipe is sure to impress. Follow these simple steps to create your herb-infused gravy at home.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Herb Blend

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. If you're using mushrooms, add them at this stage and cook until they're soft.

Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can give a bitter flavor to your gravy.

Step 3: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture and stir well to combine. Continue to cook for about 2 minutes; this will help eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 4: Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, which will help the gravy thicken. Stir constantly for about 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 5: Once the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency, stir in the soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and the herb blend (thyme, rosemary, and parsley). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Reduce the heat to low and let the gravy simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Finally, taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the gravy at this point using an immersion blender.

Serving Suggestions

This French herb-infused vegetarian gravy is versatile and pairs well with various dishes. Pour it over:

  • Roasted vegetables
  • Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
  • Vegetarian meatloaf or lentil loaf
  • Stuffed bell peppers
  • Tofu or seitan dishes

Experiment with this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own. Enjoy the rich, hearty flavors of this vegetarian gravy that add a touch of French culinary flair to your meals!