Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal but want to avoid dairy? This recipe for hamburger gravy without milk is the perfect solution! Forget bland, watery sauces; this recipe delivers a rich, flavorful gravy that's surprisingly easy to make and completely dairy-free. It's the ideal complement to mashed potatoes, biscuits, or even just a simple plate of rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend brunch, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Beef and Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Creating the Gravy Base
Sprinkle the flour over the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring the flour is fully incorporated and cooked, creating a roux. This step is crucial for thickening the gravy.
Step 3: Adding Liquid and Seasoning
Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring no lumps form. Stir in the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Simmering and Thickening
Reduce the heat to low and let the gravy simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
Step 5: Serving and Enjoying
Serve your delicious hamburger gravy hot over mashed potatoes, biscuits, rice, or your favorite side dish.
Tips for the Best Hamburger Gravy:
- Don't rush the roux: Take your time to properly cook the flour, ensuring it's fully incorporated and cooked through before adding the liquid. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, thick gravy.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the gravy as it simmers and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add more soy sauce for saltiness, or a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
- Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh thyme on hand, use about 1 tablespoon instead of the dried thyme for a more intense flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Gravy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Mushroom Gravy: Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic for an earthy twist.
- Creamy Gravy (Dairy-Free): Stir in 1/4 cup of full-fat coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier consistency.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy and delicious hamburger gravy without milk is perfect for those looking for a healthy and flavorful meal without dairy. It's quick to prepare, versatile, and sure to please the whole family. Enjoy!