Dairy Free Caramelized Onion Gravy

Total time55 min

Prep time10 min

Cook time45 min

4.5

(28)

Rich, deeply savory gravy is one of those things that feels impossible to pull off without butter or cream — but this version proves otherwise. Coconut oil stands in as the fat base, and slow-cooked onions do the heavy lifting, building a jammy, golden sweetness that no shortcut can replicate. The 30-plus minutes of patient stirring is genuinely worth it; those caramelized layers become the soul of the whole sauce. Bone broth adds body and depth, while coconut aminos bring a subtle umami note that makes the gravy taste like it's been simmering all day. Turmeric, ginger, and fresh thyme round out the flavor with just enough warmth and earthiness to keep things interesting. Arrowroot starch thickens everything to a glossy, spoon-coating consistency without any flour or dairy-based roux in sight. A final splash of apple cider vinegar brightens the whole pot and makes every other flavor pop — pour this over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or anything that deserves a proper finish.

About Fig

Fig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.

Learn more →

Ingredients

4 servings

2 tbsp coconut oil
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp fine sea salt
½ tsp ground turmeric
¼ tsp ground ginger
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
2 cups bone broth
1 tbsp coconut aminos
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp arrowroot starch
3 tbsp cold water

Instructions

1
Melt the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the sliced onions and salt, spreading them into an even layer.
2
Cook the onions, stirring every 3–4 minutes, for 30–35 minutes until deeply golden, jammy, and reduced to about one-quarter of their original volume. Lower the heat to medium-low if they begin to brown too quickly at the edges.

Want the full recipe?

Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!