Need a quick weeknight dinner solution? This creamy vegan cashew gravy is a game changer for easy homemade sides made with cashews and blend of spices, perfect for a family favorite meal, save for later and get cooking tonight

Creamy Vegan Cashew Gravy Recipe for Easy Dinner Sides

Introduction

This creamy vegan cashew gravy recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their dinner sides with minimal effort and maximum flavor. By utilizing everyday ingredients in a creative way, you can achieve a rich, velvety gravy that’s not only delicious but also vegan-friendly. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease of preparation and the impressive results it yields, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Whether you’re looking to complement a hearty vegan roast or simply want to add some excitement to your usual weeknight meals, this gravy is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between flavors, using ingredients that are easily accessible in most supermarkets. The combination of cashews, vegetable broth, and spices creates a deep, satisfying taste that complements a wide range of dishes.
Ease of preparation: One of the standout features of this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious, creamy gravy ready to go. This makes it ideal for busy evenings when you want something quick but still packed with flavor.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, this gravy delivers impressive results. The cashew base gives it a luxurious feel, while the spices and broth add depth and warmth. It’s the perfect way to impress dinner guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this creamy vegan cashew gravy include cashews, vegetable broth, olive oil, garlic, onion, and a blend of spices. The cashews are the backbone of the recipe, providing the creamy texture that gives the gravy its name. Vegetable broth adds moisture and flavor, while olive oil, garlic, and onion contribute to the overall richness and depth of the dish. For those looking for substitutions, you can use different types of non-dairy milk or broth to change up the flavor profile. Additionally, if you don’t have cashews, you can experiment with other nuts or seeds, though keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by soaking the cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step is crucial as it softens the cashews, making them easier to blend into a creamy paste. After soaking, drain the cashews and add them to a blender along with some fresh water, garlic, onion, and your choice of spices.
Step 2: Blend the mixture on high speed until it’s smooth and creamy. You may need to stop the blender and scrape down the sides a few times to ensure everything gets fully incorporated. Once you’ve achieved the desired consistency, heat some olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Step 3: Pour the cashew mixture into the pan and whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Gradually add in your vegetable broth, whisking continuously to achieve a smooth, even texture. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens to your liking.
Step 4: For the final touches, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more spices, salt, or even a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors. Once you’re satisfied with the taste, remove the gravy from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving. It’s perfect over mashed potatoes, vegan roasts, or as a side to your favorite vegetables.

Handy Tips

One of the most helpful tips for this recipe is to ensure your cashews are soaked long enough. This will make a significant difference in the final texture of your gravy. Additionally, don’t overheat the mixture, as it can quickly become too thick and sticky. If this happens, you can always thin it out with a bit more broth or non-dairy milk.

Heat Control

When it comes to heat control, it’s essential to keep an eye on the temperature, especially when you’re simmering the gravy. Ideally, you want to maintain a medium-low heat to prevent the gravy from boiling over or becoming too thick too quickly. The timing will depend on your desired consistency, but as a general rule, simmering for 5-7 minutes should yield a perfectly creamy gravy. Signs of doneness include a noticeable thickening of the mixture and a rich, velvety texture when you lift some of it with a spoon.

Crunch Factor

This recipe is all about achieving a smooth, creamy texture, so you won’t be looking for crunch. However, if you’re serving the gravy over something crispy, like roasted vegetables or crackers, the contrast between the smooth gravy and the crunchy base can be quite delightful. To achieve the best texture, make sure to blend the cashew mixture thoroughly and adjust the cooking time based on your preference for thickness.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

A pro tip for this recipe is to use a high-speed blender for the smoothest results. If you don’t have one, a regular blender will still work, but you might need to blend the mixture in batches and possibly strain it to remove any remaining cashew bits. Additionally, for an extra creamy gravy, you can add a tablespoon or two of nutritional yeast, which not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a cheesy, nutty taste that many love.

Storage Tips

This creamy vegan cashew gravy can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep it in an airtight container to preserve the flavor and texture. For reheating, simply warm it up over low heat, whisking occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. If you find it’s thickened too much in the fridge, a little non-dairy milk or broth can thin it out nicely. As for freezing, the gravy can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat as usual.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this gravy, perhaps as part of a vegan meal kit or as a condiment for a friend, it can be beautifully packaged in glass jars with a ribbon and a gift tag. Adding a few recipe suggestions or serving ideas can make the gift even more thoughtful and appreciated. For a more rustic look, you could also wrap the jar in a tea towel or place it in a basket filled with other vegan goodies.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Different spices: Experimenting with various spices can completely transform the flavor profile of your gravy. For example, adding a bit of smoked paprika can give it a smoky depth, while a sprinkle of dried thyme can evoke a more traditional, herbaceous note.
🌟 Creative toppings: While the gravy is delicious on its own, adding some creative toppings can elevate it to the next level. Consider chopped fresh herbs, toasted nuts, or even a dollop of vegan sour cream for added richness.
🌟 Ingredient swaps: For those looking to mix things up, swapping out the cashews for a different type of nut or seed can offer a fun twist. Similarly, using different types of non-dairy milk or broth can slightly alter the flavor and texture of the final product.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If your gravy ends up too thick, it’s easy to thin it out with a bit more broth or non-dairy milk. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, simmering it for a few more minutes should do the trick.
Ingredient replacements: If you’re missing a specific ingredient, don’t be afraid to get creative with substitutions. For example, if you don’t have garlic, you could use a bit of garlic powder or even onion powder as a substitute.
Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your gravy as it simmers. If it starts to boil over or becomes too thick, it’s a sign that it’s been overheated. Conversely, if it’s still quite runny after the recommended simmering time, it may need a few more minutes to reach the perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, this creamy vegan cashew gravy can be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Is it gluten-free? As long as you use gluten-free broth and are mindful of the spices and other ingredients you add, this gravy can be completely gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! This recipe can be easily doubled or even tripled if you’re serving a large crowd. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the gravy reaches the perfect consistency.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this creamy vegan cashew gravy recipe is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. Its ease of preparation, impressive flavor, and vegan-friendly ingredients make it a winner for cooks of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this gravy is sure to become a staple. Feel free to experiment with different spices and ingredients to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking!

Creamy Vegan Cashew Easy Dinner Gravy