Easy Mushroom Gravy
This flavorful gravy is perfect for mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even spooned over a slice of crusty bread.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1 pound cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1/2 cup milk
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cooking Guide:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shallot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Increase heat to medium-high and add the mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden brown and release their juices, about 8-10 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the milk and thyme (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy reaches your desired consistency. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash more milk or broth.
Tips:
- For a richer gravy, use half butter and half olive oil.
- If you don’t have fresh thyme, you can use 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme.
- You can substitute other types of mushrooms for cremini mushrooms, such as white button mushrooms or portobello mushrooms.
- To make the gravy gluten-free, use gluten-free all-purpose flour.
- Leftover gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if necessary.