12 Savory Substitutes for Pork Gravy That Are Just as Delicious

Pork gravy is a staple in many classic American dishes. It adds a rich, meaty flavor to everything from meatloaf to mashed potatoes. But what if you need a pork gravy substitute that is vegetarian, vegan or you simply don’t have any on hand?

Not to worry – there are many tasty alternatives you can use! In this article, I’ll explain 12 substitutes that will add savoriness to your dishes, whether you want convenience, to accommodate dietary needs or to make your own customized gravy.

Why Use a Substitute?

There are several reasons you may want a pork gravy substitute

• Don’t have pork gravy on hand
• Accommodating vegetarian, vegan or pork-free diets
• Want lower sodium options
• Avoid MSG in store-bought mixes
• Personal taste preferences
• Food allergies or sensitivities

Luckily, you can mimic the rich umami flavor of pork gravy with ingredients you likely already have. Let’s look at some simple swap-ins.

1. Chicken Gravy

Chicken gravy is the most convenient pork gravy substitute. It provides a similar meaty flavor and can be used in any recipe calling for pork gravy. Look for ready-to-use chicken gravy mixes, cans or jars at the grocery store. You can also make homemade chicken gravy with roasted chicken drippings.

2. Beef Gravy

Beef gravy is another easy swap for pork gravy. It delivers that rich, brown meaty taste. Beef and pork are very close in flavor and texture, so beef gravy can seamlessly integrate into any dish. Buy prepared beef gravy or make your own using beef drippings or broth.

3. Turkey Gravy

Turkey gravy isn’t just for holidays! It can substitute for pork gravy any time of year when you want a neutral meaty flavor. And it can be vegetarian by using veggie broth instead of turkey drippings. Keep jars of turkey gravy on hand for quick meals.

4. Mushroom Gravy

For a vegetarian/vegan gravy, mushroom gravy provides plenty of savory umami flavor. Sauté mushrooms, onions, garlic and herbs, then add broth and thickeners to make hearty mushroom gravy from scratch. There are also store-bought options.

5. Onion Gravy

Onion gravy is another flavorful vegetarian choice. Cooked down onions develop a rich, sweet flavor that gives gravy complexity. Make your own by sautéing onions, adding veggie broth, herbs and thickeners or find ready-made onion gravy mixes and jars.

6. Vegetable Broth or Stock

Plain vegetable broth lends a savory flavor and can be used as the liquid when making homemade gravy. Opt for low-sodium and enhance it with herbs, spices, vegetables or wine. Maggi seasoning also boosts savory, meaty flavor.

7. Soy Sauce or Tamari

A small amount of soy sauce or tamari stirred into veggie broth gives gravy extra savory umami flavor. Be careful not to add too much or the gravy may get too salty. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

8. Miso Paste

Like soy sauce, miso paste adds savory depth and umami to vegetarian gravy when used in moderation. Whisk in a teaspoon at a time until the flavor develops. Choose a mellow white or yellow miso over very salty red miso.

9. Nutritional Yeast

Nutritional yeast offers a cheese-like flavor that enriches vegetarian gravies. Whisk in a tablespoon or two when making the roux for extra richness. You can also stir yeast flakes into finished gravy.

10. Tomato Paste/Sauce

Tomato paste or sauce contributes sweet, tangy flavor and savory depth to vegetarian gravies. Just a tablespoon or two mixed into simmering broth and thickeners creates a tasty foundation.

11. Wine or Beer

For extra complexity, deglaze the pan with a splash of wine or beer when making your roux. The alcohol cooks off leaving delicious flavor notes behind. Red wine, sherry and stout beer work very well.

12. Dried Mushrooms

Soak dried porcini, shiitake or morel mushrooms in hot water to rehydrate them. Use the flavorful liquid as a broth base and dice mushrooms for texture.

Tips for Using Substitutes

• For store-bought gravies, choose low-sodium without MSG.
• Allow meat, veggies and aromatics to caramelize when making your own for maximum flavor.
• Thickeners like cornstarch, arrowroot or flour help give body.
• Simmer 10-15 minutes to meld flavors and reach desired consistency.
• Taste and adjust herbs, spices, salt and pepper as needed.
• For silky texture, strain before serving.

Gravy Substitution Ratios

As a general guideline, substitute:

• 1 Tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot = 1 Tbsp flour to thicken
• 1 cup broth, stock or water = 1 cup milk or cream for the base
• 1-2 Tbsp soy sauce, miso or tomato paste = 1 chicken or beef bouillon cube for flavor

Make Delicious Pork-Free Gravies

With so many diverse ingredients to experiment with, you can create customized gravies to perfectly suit any recipe, palate or diet. Get creative with vegetables, spices, aromatics and thickeners to make stellar vegetarian and vegan gravies.

Next time a recipe calls for pork gravy but it won’t work for you, don’t stress! Turn to this guide for a dozen delicious, satisfying substitutes you can make easily. Your taste buds will never feel deprived again!