For many, gravy is a staple comfort food, but for those with MSG sensitivities or dietary preferences, finding a suitable, store-bought option can be challenging. Many commercial gravies use monosodium glutamate (MSG) as a flavor enhancer to achieve that rich, savory taste. However, the good news is that there are many delicious alternatives, both from specific brands and through simple homemade methods.
Deciphering Food Labels for MSG-Free Gravy
MSG is often added to processed foods like canned soups, seasoning blends, and instant noodles, but it also occurs naturally in some foods. To find a gravy that does not have added MSG, you must become a savvy label reader. The FDA requires that manufacturers list added monosodium glutamate as "monosodium glutamate". However, other ingredients contain naturally occurring glutamate and can deliver a similar umami flavor. These ingredients do not have to be labeled as containing MSG, so it's important to know what to look for.
- Other names for added glutamates: In some regions, MSG might be listed by its food additive code number, E621. Other forms of added glutamate are also identified by numbers E620 to E625.
- Sources of natural glutamate: Many savory ingredients naturally contain glutamate, providing an umami punch without the synthetic additive. These include ingredients like hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP), yeast extract, soy extract, and autolyzed yeast extract. Some products might claim "No Added MSG" but still contain these glutamate-rich ingredients.
- Check the full list: Always read the entire ingredient list. Don't be fooled by marketing claims on the front of the package. A company can label its product as having "no added MSG," but still include yeast extract or hydrolyzed protein.
Homemade Gravy: The Simplest MSG-Free Solution
Creating your own gravy from scratch is the most reliable way to ensure it's free of MSG and other unwanted additives. It allows you to control the quality of every ingredient, leading to a fresher, more flavorful result. The secret to a rich, umami-packed gravy without relying on processed powders lies in using whole-food ingredients and proper cooking techniques.
Ingredients for a Basic Homemade Gravy:
- Pan drippings (from roasted meat or vegetables)
- 2-3 tbsp unsalted butter or a healthy oil like olive oil
- 2-3 tbsp all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch)
- 2 cups low-sodium broth (beef, chicken, or vegetable)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional umami enhancers: nutritional yeast, a splash of soy sauce (check label), or finely minced shiitake mushrooms
Instructions:
- After cooking your meat, pour the drippings into a separate container. Leave a tablespoon of fat in the pan over medium heat.
- Melt the butter with the remaining pan fat. Whisk in the flour to create a smooth paste (a roux).
- Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes until it becomes light golden brown.
- Slowly pour in the broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and continue to whisk until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Add your drippings back in now.
- Season with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. For extra umami, consider adding a tablespoon of nutritional yeast or a small amount of soy sauce.
- To avoid lumps, ensure your starch (flour or cornstarch) is fully dissolved into the fat or a small amount of cold water before adding it to the hot liquid.
Comparison: Store-Bought (Potential MSG) vs. Homemade (MSG-Free)
| Feature | Store-Bought Gravy Mix (Potential MSG) | Homemade Gravy (MSG-Free) |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | Often contains MSG (E621), yeast extract, hydrolyzed proteins, preservatives, and artificial colors. | Uses fresh, whole ingredients like meat drippings, broth, and herbs. |
| Flavor Control | Limited control over the flavor profile; often has a generic, standardized savory taste. | Complete control over seasoning, thickness, and flavor depth. |
| Nutritional Profile | Can be high in sodium and contain unhealthy additives and preservatives. | Generally lower in sodium and healthier, depending on the ingredients chosen. |
| Customization | Not possible to customize the ingredients or flavor boosters. | Easily tailored to dietary needs, such as gluten-free, vegan, or low-sodium. |
| Time Commitment | Very quick, as it only requires adding water and heating. | Requires more time and effort, especially for making broth from scratch. |
| Cost | Relatively inexpensive upfront, but can add up over time. | Potentially more expensive per serving if using high-quality ingredients, but can be more economical in bulk. |
What Gravy Does Not Have MSG: Other Umami-Rich Ingredients
To replicate the deep, savory flavor profile of MSG without using the additive, focus on ingredients naturally rich in glutamate and other umami compounds.
- Aged Cheese: Parmesan cheese, for example, is naturally high in glutamate due to its aging process. A small amount can add a rich, salty, and savory depth to your sauce. The hard rinds of parmesan cheese can be simmered in broth for a deep flavor boost.
- Mushrooms: Shiitake mushrooms are particularly potent with glutamate. Sautéing them or using a dried mushroom powder can create an intense umami flavor in any gravy. Porcini mushrooms also work wonders.
- Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes and tomato paste are packed with natural glutamate. A tablespoon of good-quality tomato paste can significantly deepen the flavor of a brown gravy.
- Broth: Making your own bone broth or a vegetable stock from scratch with carrots, celery, onions, and mushrooms can create a rich, glutamate-filled base without any additives.
- Fermented Sauces: A small amount of quality, naturally fermented soy sauce, tamari, or fish sauce can provide a salty umami boost. However, always check the labels of these sauces for added MSG, as it can sometimes be included.
Conclusion: Your Path to a Wholesome Gravy
Knowing what gravy does not have MSG gives you the power to choose healthier, more natural options. While a few store-bought brands offer MSG-free products, the most reliable and flavorful path is to make your own gravy from scratch. By leveraging naturally umami-rich ingredients like mushrooms, aged cheese, and quality broths, you can create a delicious sauce that is both satisfying and free of unnecessary additives. Prioritizing fresh, whole ingredients and checking labels carefully will ensure your gravy is a nourishing addition to your meal, not a compromise on your nutritional goals.
