Vegan Chopped Steak & Gravy

Growing up in the Low Country near Charleston, SC, meals were often based on an entrée with the understanding that rice would be the starch more often than not. Naturally, my palate has gravitated to rice based meals for most of my life. I remember being around 4 years old when my Great Aunt Neal came to visit my Great Grandmother, Maisey one bright sunny day. My Great Grandmother wasn’t feeling well so I recall Aunt Neal being a bit of a firecracker as she fussed a lot to break up squabbles between us kids and repeatedly sent us back outside to play.

I imagine the sisters got caught up on sister/girl talk between keeping up with several busy children of various ages. As the day grew on, a savory aroma permeated the air whenever we ran back into the house with the excuse of being a tattle tale or asking for water. On this day, Aunt Neal transformed a pack of ground round into hearty patties stuffed with seasonings and onions with a dark and rich gravy that she slathered onto some fluffy white rice.

It’s funny how this meal reminds me of Aunt Neal. It’s one of those memories that stood the test of time since it was linked to such a delicious meal. I’m sure I learned to prepare this staple southern family recipe by the time I was 12 years old, and have continued to make it ever since. It’s no surprise that as a plant based whole foods vegan, that I’d do my best to re-create this simple and satisfying meal.

This meal is a hearty, nutritious & delicious for all vegans and non-vegans alike. It’s especially good for those who are considering transitioning to plant based whole foods diet

What you’ll need for this SUPER simple Recipe

2 tbsp. coconut oil – I limit the use of oils in many of my recipes, but a good gravy deserves a bit of oil. Considering only 2 tbsp. for the entire recipe, not much oil is consumed per serving. Organic coconut oil is my oil of choice as it is avoids inflammation in the body that leads to heart disease and diabetes caused by other unsaturated fat vegetable oils.

1/2 chopped Onion – What is a good onion gravy without some caramelized onions. The deep savory sweetness of friend and caramelized onions is what provides the savory taste and aroma of this down home meal.

3 tbsp. AP flour – The flour will provide the thickness you’ll need for this gravy to lusciously coat the rice or potatoes you choose to enjoy this meal with.

2 bullion cubes + 3 cups water or 3 cups broth – Although you can make the gravy without the bullion or broth, I find even a basic broth or bullion adds an even more balance to the deep rich flavors of a truly delicious gravy.

2 garlic cloves, minced – garlic is the ultimate ingredient for savory flavory in my opinion so you can rarely go wrong with garlic. If you don’t have garlic, feel free to sub garlic powder or skip it altogether.

4 Vegan Burgers –  Burgers that tend to get mushy easily will disintegrate in the gravy so choosing the right vegan burger is important. I usually go with Boca Burger or similar burger when preparing this meal.

Salt & Pepper to Taste