Mushroom Vegetarian Gravy Bursting Flavor

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €4.53 · €0.75/serving

• 2 fresh garlic cloves, peeled and minced (crush with knife blade to release oils)Est. price €0.08–€0.20
• 1/2 teaspoon fragrant thyme leaves (remove leaves from stems before using)Est. price €0.15–€0.35
• 2 tablespoons high-quality oil (use a neutral oil like grapeseed or avocado for a clean flavor)Est. price €0.20–€0.60
• 2 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided, plus more to taste (season dish gradually and adjust to your preference)Est. price €0.10–€0.25
• 1/2 teaspoon smoky paprika (stir in towards the end for a burst of flavor)Est. price €0.20–€0.45
• 12 ounces earthy cremini mushrooms, roughly chopped, divided (cook in batches for even browning)Est. price €1.80–€3.50
• 2 shallots, cut into quarters (slice against the grain for a delicate texture)Est. price €0.30–€0.70
• 2 aromatic bay leaves (remove before serving to prevent overpowering the dish)Est. price €0.10–€0.25
• 4 cups homemade or -bought low-sodium vegetable broth (heat before adding to maintain temperature)Est. price €1.20–€2.50
• 2 tablespoons versatile all-purpose flour (whisk with broth for a smooth consistency)Est. price €0.05–€0.15

Steps

1. 1

   In a food processor, combine garlic and thyme, ensuring to scrape the sides as needed. Incorporate oil, 2 tsp of kosher salt, and paprika into the mixture. Pulse the ingredients until they form a dense paste, which should take approximately 1 minute. Once ready, transfer the mixture to a small bowl for further use.

2. 2

   In a medium pot, warm up 1 tablespoon of garlic-infused oil over medium-low heat until it starts to brown and releases a fragrant aroma, which should take around 30 seconds. Proceed by sautéing the mushrooms, shallot, and bay leaves together, stirring occasionally until the mushrooms are tender and slightly golden, approximately 5 minutes. Once done, pour in the broth, increase the heat to bring it to a simmer, and let it cook for about 30 minutes.

3. 3

   Pass the mushroom mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl. Clean the pot. Heat flour and the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil in the pot over medium heat, stirring continuously until it turns a nutty brown color and thickens, which should take approximately 8 minutes.

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• Cultural note

  Vegetarian gravy has gained popularity in recent years as more people embrace plant-based diets for health and environmental reasons. This dish showcases a blend of flavors and textures that can be enjoyed by people of various cultural backgrounds.

• Seasonal note

  This mushroom vegetarian gravy is perfect to make during the fall and winter seasons when mushrooms are in abundance and have a rich, earthy flavor.

• Health note

  This dish is low in calories and saturated fat, making it a healthy option for those watching their weight or cholesterol levels. Mushrooms are a good source of fiber and vitamins, while garlic and herbs like thyme and parsley provide additional antioxidants and immune-boosting properties.