This mushroom soup is quite a simple sauce for something that seems so powerful. It has only mushrooms as its star ingredient; the rest are used well to up the flavor. And it has one secret ingredient that brings out the strong umami flavor in the gravy – read the ingredients. Once I made this, it stayed with me, coming out often to save a rainy day – if you know what I mean. If making more than one dry dish seems like a lot of effort, you have a lifesaver like mushroom gravy. Make it in batches, freeze it, and whip it out to pair with the most popular steaks, grilled dishes, fried stuff, and even many savory baked goodies.
Mushrooms – I have used button mushrooms. You may go for commonly available types or even something more exotic, but I doubt that will make much difference in a gravy. Beef stock – the quality of the beef stock is important as it forms the flavor of the gravy base. Get the best one possible. A homemade stock would be ideal but often not feasible. Soy sauce – the secret ingredient in the gravy. It brings out that umami and a depth of flavor we love so much in this gravy. Shallots – used to caramelize and create flavor in the gravy. Garlic – is my most used flavor bomb. All-purpose flour – helps to thicken the gravy. You may use corn starch instead, but flour is better for flavor. Butter – is used to sauté the mushrooms and the shallots too. Olive oil – is mixed with butter for added flavor for sauteing the mushrooms. Get extra-virgin oil for better taste and flavor. Black pepper – adds a bit of heat to balance the sourness and salt. Thyme – our herby friend that elevates this dish in flavor.
When frozen, you can have it for months. You have to let it thaw and then reheat it the same way. Bread – Delicious combination with most bread, like my No-Knead Rustic White Bread, Artos: Greek Celebration Bread, or Cheesy Garlic Bread. Nothing like wiping the gravy with a piece of bread. Grilled chicken – Serves as an excellent side to any grilled chicken dishes like meatballs, Easy Grilled Chicken with Buttermilk Marinade, or Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders. Steak or Meatball – Works best as a side to your favorite steaks or meatballs. Mashed potato – When you have mashed potato – Roasted Garlic Mashed Potato, hash browns, or even french fries.
