5 Best Substitutes for Gravy Master in Cooking

Gravy Master missing when we really need it? Happens to us more often than we'd like to admit.

That rich, caramel goodness can make or break a dish, and when it's not on hand, the scramble for alternatives begins; Gravy Master is a liquid browning and seasoning sauce used to add color and savory depth.

The last time we ran out, we tried a pantry experiment. Spoiler alert-it worked, and we found some pretty solid stand-ins. Some were already lurking on our shelves; others offered surprising results.

We're sharing our go-to substitutes in case you're facing the same dilemma. These ideas will get the job done without leaving recipes hanging.

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5 Quick Substitutes for Gravy Master

Here are five substitutes for Gravy Master that you can use in a pinch:

1 - Kitchen Bouquet

First on our list, Kitchen Bouquet is a solid swap for Gravy Master. Use it 1:1-1 tablespoon of Kitchen Bouquet equals 1 tablespoon of Gravy Master.

It adds the same caramel color to dishes and works great for browning gravies or sauces. The flavor is mild, slightly smoky (with toasted sugar notes), and blends in smoothly.

We've tried it in meat dishes, and it hits all the right notes.

It's less salty than Gravy Master, so we find it easier to control seasoning. That's a huge plus if you're after a more balanced taste.

Curious for more ideas or alternatives? Check this helpful guide on Kitchen Bouquet substitutes for additional swaps.

2 - Worcestershire Sauce

The sharp Worcestershire sauce makes a solid replacement for Gravy Master. Use it 1:1-1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for 1 tablespoon of Gravy Master.

Its tangy, savory punch (from vinegar, molasses, and spices) can add depth to all kinds of sauces and broths. We've noticed the mixture of vinegar and spices brings a little extra kick to dishes.

It's more liquid than Gravy Master, so adjusting the amount might help keep the texture on point. It does bring a subtle umami richness that works especially well in meat-based meals.

This guide on tomato sauce alternatives for thickening lists a few other handy picks.

3 - Soy Sauce

For soy sauce, swapping it for Gravy Master works pretty easily. Use it 1:1-that's one tablespoon of soy sauce for every tablespoon of Gravy Master.

The salty kick and umami flavor (rich in glutamates) can do wonders, especially in savory dishes.

It's thinner, so it might change how your sauce coats. We suggest keeping that in mind.

The flavor leans towards savory with a subtle sweetness, which fits well in stews or glazes.

Need more soy sauce swaps? Check out these soy flour alternatives for baking for added options.

4 - Balsamic Glaze

The big question here is, how to use balsamic glaze as a Gravy Master alternative? Use it 1:1-that's one tablespoon of balsamic glaze for every tablespoon of Gravy Master.

It packs that same caramelized sweetness and syrupy thickness that works so well in gravies.

The flavor brings noticeable tanginess and fruitiness (from cooked grape must)-something we like when we want to brighten up rich dishes. Plus, it's a surprisingly good fit in Italian dishes like meatballs or sautéed veggies.

5 - Coconut Aminos

Last on our list, coconut aminos. It's like soy sauce's sweeter, less salty cousin stepping in when Gravy Master sits out.

The swap is easy, too. Use coconut aminos 1:1 for Gravy Master-just one tablespoon for one tablespoon.

The flavor is mild, with hints of sweetness and a touch of salt. It's noticeably thinner.

Keep that in mind for sauces or glazes. Great for adding a light umami boost in marinades or stir-fries.

It works well for those avoiding soy or looking for a gluten-free option (made from fermented coconut sap rather than soybeans). Coconut aminos might not mimic the exact richness, but it brings a gentler vibe to the table.

For more ideas, check out these coconut milk alternatives for curries if you're looking to switch things up.