Brown Gravy (Dairy, Gluten, Soy, Egg, Nut Free)

A Simple and Delicious Homemade Brown Gravy Recipe

There’s something comforting about a good gravy. It adds warmth and flavor to any meal. This particular recipe combines chicken and beef broth for a rich, deep taste. It’s easy to make, dairy-free, and perfect if you avoid soy or wheat. Plus, it uses everyday pantry ingredients, so you probably have everything on hand.

Gravy is more than just a sauce—it’s a tradition in many kitchens. It brings together flavors and textures, making any dish feel complete. Whether you’re serving it over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or meat, this gravy recipe will quickly become a favorite.

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The History of Gravy and Why It’s So Popular

Gravy has been around for centuries. It started as a simple way to make meat juices stretch further. Back then, cooks would collect drippings from roasted meat and add some flour or starch to thicken the sauce. This method helped make meals more filling and flavorful.

Over time, gravy recipes evolved. People began adding broth, herbs, and spices. Each region has its own version, shaped by local ingredients and tastes. The gravy we enjoy today reflects this history of adaptation and creativity.

This recipe is inspired by classic gravy but tweaked to be allergy-friendly. It skips common allergens like dairy, soy, and wheat, replacing them with tasty substitutes. That way, everyone can enjoy it without worry.

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Ingredients and Substitutions for This Gravy

To make this gravy, you’ll need broth, seasonings, a thickener, and a butter substitute. Here’s a quick list of the key ingredients:

• Chicken broth
• Beef broth
• Beef bouillon cube or better than bouillon
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Coconut aminos (a soy sauce substitute)
• Apple cider vinegar (used to replace Worcestershire sauce)
• Kitchen Bouquet or Gravy Master (for color and seasoning, optional)
• Cold water
• Cornstarch (to thicken)
• Dairy-free butter substitute (like Earth Balance)

If you don’t have beef broth, you can use all chicken broth or a vegetable broth. For the thickener, cornstarch is a great choice for a smooth texture, but arrowroot powder or tapioca starch work well too. If you’re not avoiding dairy, you can use regular butter instead of a dairy-free substitute.

Coconut aminos add a mild, slightly sweet flavor without soy. It’s a great replacement for soy sauce. To mimic Worcestershire sauce’s tang and depth, a mix of coconut aminos and apple cider vinegar does the trick. If you don’t have Kitchen Bouquet or Gravy Master, don’t worry—it just helps with color and a bit of extra flavor.

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How to Make This Gravy Step-by-Step

Making this gravy is simple and quick. Follow these steps:

1. Start by pouring the chicken broth, beef broth, and bouillon into a pot.
2. Add onion powder, garlic powder, and the coconut aminos and vinegar mixture. Stir well.
3. Heat the pot over medium heat until the broth is warm but not boiling.
4. In a separate small bowl, mix the cold water and cornstarch until you get a smooth paste. This will help avoid lumps.
5. Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the warm broth while stirring constantly. This helps thicken the gravy evenly.
6. Continue cooking and stirring until the gravy thickens to your liking. It usually takes a few minutes.
7. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the dairy-free butter substitute until melted and smooth.
8. Taste your gravy. Adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings if needed.
9. Serve immediately while warm over your favorite dishes.

If your gravy becomes too thick, simply stir in a little more broth or water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and add gradually while stirring.

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Frequently Asked Questions About This Gravy

Can I make this gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a few hours in advance. Keep it covered and warm on low heat, stirring occasionally. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Is this gravy gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe uses cornstarch as a thickener and avoids wheat-based ingredients, making it gluten-free.

What if I don’t have coconut aminos?
You can substitute soy sauce if you’re not avoiding soy. For a soy-free option, use tamari (if gluten-free) or just leave it out. The flavor will be slightly different but still tasty.

Can I use all chicken broth instead of beef broth?
Absolutely! Using all chicken broth will make a lighter-tasting gravy, but it will still be delicious.

How do I make this gravy thicker?
Add more cornstarch mixed with cold water a little at a time, stirring until you reach the desired thickness.

Is there a way to make this gravy vegan?
You could use vegetable broth and a vegan bouillon substitute. Make sure to use a dairy-free butter substitute to keep it fully vegan.

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Gravy is a staple in many meals, and making it from scratch is easier than you might think. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a simple, flavorful gravy without common allergens. It brings richness and depth to your dishes while staying friendly to various diets. Try it out next time you want to add that special touch to your meal.

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