What Gravy Does Not Contain Dairy?

Over 65% of the world's population experiences lactose intolerance, making the search for dairy-free alternatives vital [1.1]. For those avoiding dairy, understanding what gravy does not contain dairy is key to enjoying rich, comforting meals.

Quick Summary

This article discusses methods for creating rich, flavorful gravy without dairy. It details plant-based fats, thickening techniques like roux and slurry, and liquid bases such as vegetable broth, offering recipe ideas for both creamy and brown gravies.

Key Points

• Use a non-dairy fat: Olive oil, vegan butter, or coconut oil are great alternatives.

• Choose your liquid: Vegetable or meat broths are good for brown gravy; oat milk or coconut milk work for creamy gravies.

• Master thickening: A cornstarch slurry is quick; a dairy-free roux offers richer flavor.

• Add umami: Use nutritional yeast, soy sauce/tamari, or mushrooms.

• Use herbs: Sage, thyme, and onion/garlic powder build flavor.

• Creaminess without dairy: Use oat or coconut milk.

Dairy-Free Gravy Basics

Creating a delicious gravy that is free of dairy is attainable. The key is to replace each dairy component with a suitable non-dairy alternative. Most standard gravies use dairy-based fat in the roux, or milk and cream. Swapping these for plant-based fats and liquids creates a rich sauce.

Dairy-Free Fats

Fat is used to create a roux or sauté aromatics. Several dairy-free fats can build a robust flavor base:

• Olive Oil: Provides a fruity, savory flavor profile. Excellent for a Mediterranean-style gravy.
• Vegan Butter: These mimic butter and work in a roux.
• Refined Coconut Oil: Use refined to avoid coconut flavor. This solid fat is versatile.
• Pan Drippings: From roasted meat (like chicken or turkey) is a classic way to start a gravy. If the meat wasn't cooked with butter, these drippings are dairy-free.

Liquid Bases

A flavorful liquid is essential for dairy-free gravy. The right liquid base can impact the final taste:

• Vegetable Broth: The most common and versatile for vegan gravy. Provides a savory, all-purpose flavor.
• Mushroom Broth: Offers a deeper flavor, perfect with steaks or vegetable dishes.
• Meat Broth or Bone Broth: Chicken, beef, or turkey broth provides a rich flavor without dairy.
• Plant-Based Milk: For creamy gravies, use unsweetened, full-fat oat milk or canned coconut milk. These provide a silky texture.

Thickening Gravy Without Dairy

There are several ways to achieve a smooth gravy without dairy. The thickener can affect the flavor and appearance.

Flour Roux Method

This uses fat (like vegan butter or olive oil) with flour to create a paste, which thickens the liquid. A roux provides a rich flavor. The process is:

1. Melt your dairy-free fat in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in an equal amount of flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes until a paste forms and smells slightly toasted.
3. Slowly whisk in your liquid base until smooth, then simmer until thickened.

Cornstarch Slurry

A cornstarch slurry is quicker, gluten-free. It produces a glossy sauce.

1. Mix cornstarch with cold liquid (water or broth) until a smooth paste forms.
2. Whisk the slurry into simmering liquid. The sauce will thicken instantly.

Thickening Method	Pros	Cons	Appearance	Flavor Profile
Flour Roux	Adds flavor depth, reheats well.	Requires more time, not gluten-free unless using gluten-free flour blend.	Opaque, creamy.	Rich, nutty, complex.
Cornstarch Slurry	Quick and easy, gluten-free.	Can appear glossy or gelatinous, doesn't reheat as well.	Glossy, slightly translucent.	Neutral, allows other flavors to shine.
Arrowroot Powder	Paleo/grain-free, neutral flavor.	Can become slimy if overcooked.	Similar to cornstarch.	Neutral.

Savory Flavor Enhancers

Dairy-free gravy can be flavorful. These ingredients elevate the umami and richness:

• Nutritional Yeast: Provides a cheesy flavor.
• Soy Sauce or Tamari: Adds umami-rich saltiness and a darker color.
• Mushrooms: Sautéed or blended mushrooms add an earthy flavor.
• Herbs and Spices: Garlic and onion powder, dried thyme, sage, and rosemary create complexity.
• Miso Paste: A small amount can introduce a fermented umami flavor.

Common Flavor Enhancers for Dairy-Free Gravy:

• Dried mushrooms or mushroom powder
• Onion and garlic powder
• Nutritional yeast
• Soy sauce or tamari
• Herbs like thyme, sage, and rosemary
• Dry white wine (for reducing flavor)
• Tomato paste (for depth and color)

Recipes for Every Palate

Dairy-free versions are easy. For a vegan brown gravy, sauté onions in vegan butter, whisk in flour, and add vegetable broth, soy sauce, and nutritional yeast. For a creamy alternative, start with a roux made from vegan butter and flour, then incorporate unsweetened oat milk or canned coconut milk. For a Paleo-friendly option, use ghee or lard and thicken with cassava flour or arrowroot powder.

Conclusion

Understanding what gravy does not contain dairy reveals ingredients and techniques that yield delicious results. By mastering the fundamentals of dairy-free fats, alternative liquids, and thickening methods, you can create a savory gravy. Experiment with flavor enhancers. To learn more about thickening techniques, read more about roux vs. slurry on The Kitchn.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can you make gravy without milk or cream?

Replace milk or cream with vegetable broth, meat drippings, or plant-based milk. Thicken with a flour roux or cornstarch slurry.

What's a dairy-free substitute for butter in gravy?

Use olive oil, coconut oil, or vegan butter. These work for a roux.

Is all packaged gravy mix dairy-free?

No. Always check the ingredients for milk solids or whey. Look for vegan or dairy-free labels.

What can I use to thicken gravy instead of flour?

Use a cornstarch slurry, arrowroot powder, or cassava flour. Cornstarch creates a clear finish.

Can I use water to make gravy?

Water is not recommended as it lacks flavor. If used, boost flavor with herbs and umami ingredients.

What does nutritional yeast do for dairy-free gravy?

Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor, adding umami to dairy-free sauces.

How do you make creamy gravy without dairy?

Create a roux with vegan butter and flour, then add unsweetened oat milk or coconut milk.

Is bone broth gravy dairy-free?

Yes, bone broth gravy can be dairy-free if no dairy products are added during preparation.