🍯 Sauces & Condiments

Brown Gravy Mix Substitutes: Complete Guide

Find the best substitutes for brown gravy mix in cooking. Learn about beef broth, flour, and other alternatives with proper ratios and tips.

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Quick Answer

The best substitutes for brown gravy mix are beef broth + flour (1 cup broth + 2 tbsp flour), au jus gravy mix (1:1), or beef stock + cornstarch (1 cup stock + 2 tbsp cornstarch). Beef broth provides the most authentic flavor.

Best Substitutes

Beef Broth + Flour

1 cup broth + 2 tbsp flour

Beef broth with flour is the most authentic substitute for brown gravy mix. It provides the same rich, meaty flavor and can be thickened to the desired consistency.

Best for:

roastsbeef disheswhen you want authentic flavorcooking

Heat beef broth and whisk in flour gradually to avoid lumps. Simmer until thickened to desired consistency. This provides the most authentic brown gravy flavor.

Au Jus Gravy Mix

1:1

Au jus gravy mix is a convenient substitute for brown gravy mix. It provides similar flavor and consistency with minimal preparation.

Best for:

conveniencewhen you want similar flavorquick preparationmost applications

Au jus gravy mix provides similar flavor to brown gravy mix. Follow package instructions for best results.

Beef Stock + Cornstarch

1 cup stock + 2 tbsp cornstarch

Beef stock with cornstarch provides a clear, glossy brown gravy substitute. It's perfect when you want a lighter, clearer sauce.

Best for:

when you want clear saucelighter applicationsgluten-free cooking

Mix cornstarch with cold water first, then add to hot beef stock. Simmer until thickened and clear.

Beef Consommé + Flour

1 cup consommé + 2 tbsp flour

Beef consommé with flour creates a rich, flavorful brown gravy substitute with enhanced depth of flavor.

Best for:

when you want enhanced flavorspecial occasionsbeef dishes

Beef consommé provides richer flavor than regular broth. Add flour gradually while whisking to avoid lumps.

Worcestershire Sauce + Beef Broth + Flour

1 cup broth + 1 tbsp Worcestershire + 2 tbsp flour

Worcestershire sauce adds depth and complexity to beef broth, creating a rich brown gravy substitute with enhanced flavor.

Best for:

when you want enhanced flavorcomplex tastebeef dishes

Add Worcestershire sauce to beef broth, then whisk in flour gradually. Simmer until thickened to desired consistency.

Red Wine + Beef Broth + Flour

1 cup broth + 1/4 cup red wine + 2 tbsp flour

Red wine adds richness and depth to beef broth, creating a sophisticated brown gravy substitute perfect for special occasions.

Best for:

special occasionswhen you want wine flavorsophisticated dishes

Add red wine to beef broth and simmer to reduce slightly, then whisk in flour gradually. Simmer until thickened.

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Brown gravy mix is typically used for beef dishes and roasts
  • 💡Beef broth provides the most authentic brown gravy flavor
  • 💡Add flour gradually to hot liquid to avoid lumps
  • 💡Simmer brown gravy substitutes until thickened to desired consistency
  • 💡Taste and adjust seasoning as needed
  • 💡Brown gravy is traditionally thicker than au jus
  • 💡Store leftover brown gravy in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best substitute for brown gravy mix?

Beef broth + flour (1 cup broth + 2 tbsp flour) is the best substitute. Au jus gravy mix (1:1) is most convenient, while beef stock + cornstarch (1 cup stock + 2 tbsp cornstarch) provides a clear sauce.

Can I use au jus gravy mix instead of brown gravy mix?

Yes, au jus gravy mix is a good substitute for brown gravy mix. Use equal amounts (1:1 ratio) and follow package instructions.

How do I make brown gravy from beef broth?

Heat beef broth and whisk in flour gradually (2 tbsp per cup of broth). Simmer until thickened to desired consistency. Add seasonings as needed.

What's the difference between brown gravy and au jus?

Brown gravy is thicker and includes flour or other thickeners, while au jus is typically thinner and made from meat drippings and broth.

Can I use beef stock instead of brown gravy mix?

Yes, beef stock works well as a brown gravy substitute. Add flour (2 tbsp per cup) or cornstarch (2 tbsp per cup) to thicken it to desired consistency.

How much flour do I need for brown gravy?

Use 2 tablespoons flour per cup of liquid for brown gravy. Add flour gradually to hot liquid while whisking to avoid lumps.

Can I make brown gravy without flour?

Yes, you can make brown gravy without flour by using cornstarch (2 tbsp per cup) or arrowroot powder. These provide gluten-free thickening options.

Summary

Find the best substitutes for brown gravy mix in cooking. Learn about beef broth, flour, and other alternatives with proper ratios and tips.