Vegan Grillers With Mushroom Gravy

The first time I attempted a fully vegan Thanksgiving, my biggest hurdle wasn’t the turkey; it was the gravy. I desperately missed that rich, savory umami bomb that coated everything on my plate. After a bit of experimentation involving various mushrooms and herbs, this recipe was born. The aroma of thyme and lemon mingling with the earthy mushrooms simmering away on the stove brings back warm memories of that Thanksgiving. It’s proof that vegan comfort food can be just as satisfying and flavorful as its traditional counterpart.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Vegan

Ingredients

• 3 cups cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 4 vegan burger patties (e.g., Morningstar)
• 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 12 ounces vegetable broth

Equipment Needed

• Sauté pan
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. In a sauté pan, add the olive oil and the mushrooms. It is important to add the mushrooms first, as they need time to release their moisture and brown properly.
2. Let the mushrooms get color without stirring them constantly. This develops their flavor. Remember, color equals flavor! Allow them to sit undisturbed for a few minutes at a time until nicely browned on one side before stirring.
3. After the mushrooms have begun to brown (about 5-7 minutes), add the chopped onion.
4. Continue to cook until the mushrooms and onions are browned and softened. The onions should be translucent and slightly caramelized.
5. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom and onion mixture, and stir to combine. This creates a roux, which will thicken the gravy.
6. Cook the flour for about a minute, stirring constantly, to cook out the raw flour taste. This step is crucial for a smooth and flavorful gravy.
7. Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, stirring continuously to prevent any clumps from forming. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – they add a ton of flavor!
8. Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, thyme leaves, bay leaf, and lemon juice to the gravy. Stir to combine.
9. Reduce the heat to low. Gently place the vegan burger patties into the simmering gravy.
10. Cover the pan and let the gravy and grillers simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the grillers to absorb the flavors of the gravy and become tender.
11. After 10 minutes, remove the lid and add the chopped parsley.
12. Continue to simmer for a few more minutes, until the vegan grillers are heated through and the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For an even richer flavor, try using a combination of cremini and shiitake mushrooms.
• If the gravy is too thick, add a little more vegetable broth to thin it out.
• To make ahead, prepare the gravy and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add the grillers when you are ready to serve.
• If you don’t have fresh thyme, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme.
• Add a splash of vegan Worcestershire sauce for even deeper savory flavor.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the vegan grillers smothered in the mushroom gravy over a bed of mashed potatoes, yams, or your favorite grain. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of vegetable broth if the gravy has thickened too much during storage. The flavor actually improves overnight! This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	220 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	11g	16%
Saturated Fat	1.5g	7%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	603mg	25%
Total Carbohydrate	16g	5%
Dietary Fiber	5g	19%
Sugars	1g	N/A
Protein	15g	30%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the gravy. Ensure your vegetable broth and vegan burger patties are also gluten-free.
• Mushroom Variety: Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake, oyster, or portobello, to create a unique flavor profile.
• Herb Variations: Substitute rosemary or sage for thyme to change the flavor profile of the gravy.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the gravy for a subtle heat.
• Richness: For an even richer gravy, add a tablespoon of vegan butter or cream cheese alternative at the end of cooking.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen mushrooms?
A: Yes, you can use frozen mushrooms, but be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before cooking. Fresh mushrooms will provide a better texture and flavor, however.

Q: Can I make this gravy without flour?
A: Yes, you can use cornstarch as a substitute for flour. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, and then whisk it into the gravy during the last few minutes of cooking to thicken it.

Q: What if my gravy is too thin?
A: If your gravy is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes without the lid to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can add a cornstarch slurry (as described above) to thicken it.

Q: Can I use different types of vegan burgers?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different brands and flavors of vegan burgers to find your favorite combination. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as some burgers may require more or less time to heat through.

Q: How can I make this recipe even more flavorful?
A: Try adding a tablespoon of tomato paste to the gravy while cooking the mushrooms and onions. This will add a depth of umami flavor. A splash of balsamic vinegar at the end can also brighten the overall taste.

Final Thoughts

I sincerely hope you give this Vegan Grillers With Mushroom Gravy recipe a try! It’s a deeply satisfying and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and substitutions to make it your own. I encourage you to share your feedback and let me know how it turns out. Enjoy it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and a glass of your favorite vegan wine for a truly unforgettable experience!