Vegan substitute for Beef stock
Beef stock is about roasted depth and body. Mushrooms, tomato, soy and a dark roux rebuild it convincingly.
Options, ratios and best uses
Dried porcini stock
1:1Soak 20 g porcini in 500 ml hot water.
Best for: stews, gravy, pie fillings
Marmite / yeast extract
1 tsp per 500 mlExtremely savoury — start small.
Best for: gravies, casseroles
Vegan beef-style bouillon
per packWidely stocked; check for lactose.
Best for: convenience
Roasted onion + tomato purée
1:1Caramelise deeply for a roasted base note.
Best for: ragù, chilli
Tips
- A splash of red wine adds the missing acidity
- Cook out the tomato purée before adding liquid
- Thicken with a dark roux for body
Avoid
- Adding yeast extract late — it needs to cook in
- Over-salting: bouillon and soy stack up fast
Questions people ask
How do I get a meaty gravy?
Porcini stock, yeast extract, a dark roux and a splash of soy sauce.
Is Marmite vegan?
Yes, it is a brewing yeast by-product.