How to Make a Creamy Vegan Gravy with Shiitake Mushroom Gravy Mix

A velvety, savory gravy can make or break a meal—especially during the holidays. For those following a plant-based diet, finding a creamy vegan gravy that rivals traditional turkey or beef gravy can feel like a challenge. Enter shiitake mushroom gravy mix: a convenient base that delivers deep, earthy umami in minutes. With a few simple pantry upgrades, you can transform it into a luscious, dairy-free gravy that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or nut roasts.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to create a creamy vegan gravy using shiitake mushroom gravy mix, plus tips to customize it for any occasion. Along the way, we'll highlight a few pantry staples from Edward & Sons Trading Co. that can elevate your gravy game—like Edward & Sons® Not-Beef™ Bouillon Cubes for extra savory depth and Native Forest® Organic Unsweetened Simple Coconut Milk for a silky finish.

Why Shiitake Mushroom Gravy Mix Works for Vegan Cooking

Shiitake mushrooms are a powerhouse of natural glutamates, which create that addictive savory flavor known as umami. When dried and ground into a gravy mix, they provide a concentrated base that mimics the richness of traditional meat-based gravies—without any animal products. This makes them ideal for vegan and vegetarian kitchens. The mix typically includes onion, garlic, and herbs, so you get a balanced flavor from the start.

To turn that mix into a creamy vegan gravy, you simply need to choose the right liquid base and a thickening agent. Many recipes call for water and oil, but for a richer result, we recommend using a combination of vegetable broth and unsweetened plant milk. Native Forest® Dairy Free Coconut Milk Powder is another excellent option for adding creaminess without altering the savory profile. Its light coconut flavor pairs surprisingly well with shiitake mushrooms.

• Shiitake gravy mix is naturally vegan and gluten-free in many brands—check the label to be sure.
• For a nut-free option, use oat milk or coconut milk instead of almond or cashew milk.
• A splash of tamari or soy sauce can boost the umami even further.

Key Ingredients for the Creamiest Vegan Gravy

Beyond the shiitake mushroom gravy mix itself, you'll need a few staple ingredients to achieve that silky, pourable consistency. Here's a checklist of what we recommend having on hand: Start with a good-quality vegetable broth or water—but for an extra savory punch, dissolve one Edward & Sons® Not-Beef™ Bouillon Cube in hot water before mixing. This adds a deep, beef-like flavor that complements mushrooms beautifully. Then, choose a fat source: either vegan butter or a neutral oil like avocado oil. For creaminess, opt for full-fat coconut milk or a rich plant-based milk. We love using Native Forest® Organic Unsweetened Simple Coconut Milk because it has a smooth texture and no added sugars.

Finally, you'll want a thickening agent if the mix doesn't already contain one. Cornstarch or arrowroot powder works well. Whisk it into cold liquid before adding to the hot gravy to prevent lumps. A pinch of nutritional yeast (optional) can add a cheese-like note, while fresh thyme or rosemary at the end brings a lovely herbal finish.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Creamy Vegan Shiitake Gravy

Begin by preparing your liquid base. In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a simmer and dissolve one Edward & Sons® Not-Beef™ Bouillon Cube, or skip the cube and use plain water for a milder gravy. Whisk in the contents of one packet of shiitake mushroom gravy mix until fully dissolved. Slowly pour in 1/2 cup of Native Forest® Organic Unsweetened Simple Coconut Milk while whisking continuously. This will add creaminess and a subtle richness.

Continue to simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. If you prefer a thicker consistency, create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then whisk it into the simmering gravy. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the gravy thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Taste and adjust seasoning—add a dash of black pepper, a splash of tamari for more umami, or a pinch of smoked paprika for depth. For an extra silky finish, you can stir in a tablespoon of vegan butter off the heat.

• Whisk constantly to prevent lumps when adding liquids.
• For a thinner gravy, simply add more broth or water.
• Let the gravy rest for 2 minutes off the heat before serving—it will continue to thicken.

Flavor Variations and Serving Suggestions

This creamy vegan gravy is incredibly versatile. For a holiday feast, stir in sautéed mushrooms—like Native Forest® Organic Sliced Crimini Mushrooms, which are already sliced and ready to go. Their earthy flavor blends perfectly with the shiitake base. Alternatively, add a roasted garlic puree for a sweet, mellow note. If you're serving the gravy over biscuits or tofu scramble for brunch, try adding a pinch of sage and thyme for a classic breakfast gravy feel.

This gravy also works wonderfully as a sauce for grain bowls, drizzled over roasted vegetables, or even as a base for a vegan pot pie. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to restore the silky texture. Avoid the microwave, as it can cause the coconut milk to separate.

• Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted brussels sprouts, or a lentil loaf.
• For a gluten-free version, ensure the gravy mix and bouillon are certified gluten-free.
• Add a teaspoon of miso paste for extra umami—try Savory Seaweed Miso-Cup® for a convenient option.

Ready to impress your family and friends with a luxurious, plant-based gravy that’s ready in under 15 minutes? Pick up a pack of Edward & Sons® Not-Beef™ Bouillon Cubes and Native Forest® Organic Unsweetened Simple Coconut Milk to get started, then grab your favorite shiitake mushroom gravy mix and enjoy the simplest route to creamy, vegan perfection.