Creamy Vegan Cashew Gravy Recipe for Easy Dinner Sides

Introduction

Cooking a delicious vegan meal doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With a few simple ingredients and some creativity, you can whip up a tasty and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This creamy vegan cashew gravy recipe is a game-changer for easy dinner sides, and it’s made with everyday ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort, but the results are impressive and sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking for a new way to spice up your meal routine, this recipe is a must-try.

Why This Works

• The combination of cashews, nutritional yeast, and spices creates a rich and creamy flavor profile that’s both savory and slightly nutty, making it a perfect complement to a variety of dishes.
• This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a few minutes of prep time and a handful of ingredients, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.
• The end result is a delicious and impressive side dish that’s sure to wow your family and friends, and it can be made in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for those short on time.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of cashews
• 1/2 cup of water
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 2 cups of vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon of nutritional yeast

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by soaking the cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. This will help to soften them and make them easier to blend into a creamy sauce.
2. Step 2: In a blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, olive oil, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Step 3: In a small saucepan, whisk together the flour and vegetable broth until smooth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Step 4: Add the cashew mixture to the saucepan and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the gravy has reached the desired consistency. Stir in the nutritional yeast and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Handy Tips

• For an extra creamy gravy, try adding a tablespoon or two of vegan butter or margarine to the saucepan with the cashew mixture.
• If you don’t have cashews, you can substitute with other nuts or seeds, such as almonds or sunflower seeds.
• To avoid a lumpy gravy, make sure to whisk the flour and vegetable broth mixture until smooth before adding it to the saucepan.

Heat Control

When cooking the gravy, it’s essential to keep an eye on the heat to prevent it from boiling over or becoming too thick. Aim for a medium-low heat and stir the mixture frequently to ensure that it cooks evenly and reaches the desired consistency.

Crunch Factor

This creamy vegan cashew gravy is designed to be smooth and creamy, so there’s no need to worry about achieving a crunch factor. However, if you want to add some texture to your dish, you could try serving the gravy over a bed of roasted vegetables or crispy tempeh.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To make the gravy more efficient to prepare, try soaking the cashews ahead of time and storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to use them.
• For a richer flavor, try adding a teaspoon or two of dried mushrooms or miso paste to the gravy mixture.
• To clean up the saucepan quickly, try wiping it out with a paper towel as soon as you’re finished cooking, then washing it with soap and water.

Storage Tips

• The creamy vegan cashew gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• To reheat the gravy, simply warm it over low heat, whisking constantly, until it reaches the desired temperature.
• You can also freeze the gravy for up to 2 months, then thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This creamy vegan cashew gravy makes a great gift for friends and family, especially during the holiday season. Consider packaging it in a decorative jar or container, then wrapping it in a ribbon or gift bag. You could also include a few suggested uses for the gravy, such as serving it over mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding a teaspoon of dried herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the gravy mixture for a more savory flavor.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeno pepper to the gravy.
• To give the gravy a smoky flavor, try adding a teaspoon of liquid smoke or a pinch of smoked paprika.

Troubleshooting

• If the gravy becomes too thick, try whisking in a little more vegetable broth or water to thin it out.
• If the gravy is too thin, try simmering it for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid and thicken the sauce.
• If you notice any lumps or bumps in the gravy, try whisking it vigorously or blending it in a blender to smooth out the texture.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the gravy? Yes, the creamy vegan cashew gravy can be frozen for up to 2 months, then thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Is the gravy gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to make a larger batch of gravy. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

This creamy vegan cashew gravy recipe is a game-changer for easy dinner sides, and it’s perfect for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying plant-based meal. With its rich and creamy flavor profile, ease of preparation, and versatility, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious and creamy results!