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.
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. Keep reading to find out which works best for you!
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, 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 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.
Looking for more swaps? This guide on Worcestershire sauce substitutes 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 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 sauce substitutes 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—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. Coconut aminos might not mimic the exact richness, but it brings a gentler vibe to the table.
For more ideas, check out these coconut aminos substitutes if you’re looking to switch things up.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.