Ah, Mushroom Gravy! This creamy, umami-rich delight holds a special place in my heart (and my stomach!). I remember the first time I tried making it as a teenager. I was determined to impress my family during a Sunday roast, and by some miracle, it turned out to be a huge hit! Our dinner table transformed into a feast, and everyone was asking for seconds—especially slathered over mashed potatoes. That moment was when I realized the power of a good sauce in elevating a meal.
What I love about this Mushroom Gravy is its versatility. It’s not just a companion to meat dishes; it’s equally fantastic on a bed of rice, pasta, or even drizzled over roasted vegetables. Not to mention, it’s an easy way to add a gourmet touch to any meal. So, if you’ve never dabbled in the art of gravy-making, don’t worry! I’m here to share my secrets with you.
What’s in Mushroom Gravy?
Mushrooms: The star of the show! I prefer using a mix of cremini and shiitake for their deep, rich flavors. If you can find fresh ones, go for it—otherwise, the pre-sliced ones from the store work perfectly too.
Onion: Diced onions add a sweet depth to the gravy. I love using yellow onions, but feel free to switch to white or even shallots for a more delicate flavor.
Garlic: A couple of minced garlic cloves go a long way in adding that delicious aroma. You know, the one that makes everyone flock to the kitchen?
Butter: This is where the magic happens! I typically use unsalted butter to control the saltiness in the gravy.
Flour: All-purpose flour serves as the thickening agent, creating that beautiful, velvety texture we all crave in our gravies.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth: You can really up the flavor game with high-quality broth. Homemade is always best, but store-bought works well too—just watch the sodium levels!
Soy Sauce: This little addition gives a boost of umami and rich color to the gravy. If you want, feel free to use low-sodium soy sauce.
Black Pepper: A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper rounds out the flavors. Depending on your taste, you can adjust the amount!
Is Mushroom Gravy Good for You?
You might be wondering whether this rich and creamy sauce is a healthy option. Well, I believe every indulgence can have its merits!
Mushrooms: For starters, mushrooms are low in calories and packed with nutrients like antioxidants, B vitamins, and selenium. They also may boost your immune system!
Butter: Yes, butter can be high in saturated fats, but used in moderation, it adds flavor and can contribute to a balanced diet.
Flour: Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose can add some fiber to your dish if you’re looking for a healthier alternative.
While it’s not exactly health food, enjoying a generous helping of Mushroom Gravy every now and then won’t hurt your well-being. Just remember to keep portions in check if you’re monitoring your diet!
Ingredients List
– 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Serves: 4-6
How to Make Mushroom Gravy?
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is foamy, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they’re translucent and sweet-smelling.
3. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to caramelize, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture, stirring to combine. Cook for another minute to get rid of that raw flour taste.
5. Gradually pour in the broth while stirring continuously, making sure to break up any lumps.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken, stirring occasionally for about 5-10 minutes.
7. Add the soy sauce and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
A Few Tips to Elevate Your Mushroom Gravy
– For a richer flavor profile, consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing the mushrooms.
– If you love herbs, adding a teaspoon of fresh thyme or rosemary elevates the dish to a whole new level.
– Want it creamy? Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
– Making this vegan? Simply substitute the butter with olive oil and choose plant-based broth.
I truly hope you give this Mushroom Gravy a try! It’s incredible how something so simple can add layers of flavor and warmth to your meals. When you’ve made it, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Feel free to share your own tips or variations. Happy cooking!