How to Substitute for Cognac in Your Gravy

Cognac is a sweet brandy with many substitution options.

Cognac is a type of brandy that originates from Cognac, France. This brandy has a syrupy texture and sweet flavor that adds an aged sweet taste to gravy. A few gravy recipes call for the use of cognac. If you don't have cognac on hand, or don't want to use alcohol in your gravy, there are a few substitutions that you can make that will provide a similar taste and texture. Most gravy recipes call for a very small amount of cognac, so the taste difference should be negligible.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring spoons
• Armagnac brandy
• American brandy
• Peach juice
• Apricot juice
• Pear juice
• Juicer
• Strainer

Instructions

Alcohol Substitutions

1. Exchange 2 tbsp. of armagnac brandy for cognac in a gravy recipe. Mix up the gravy in the same manner than you normally would.

2. Use American brandy if you cannot find or do not have cognac or Armagnac brandy. Use the same amount of American brandy that you would cognac.

3. Boil the gravy for about two or three minutes to burn off the alcohol, leaving the flavor and making the dish safe for all ages to consume without risk of intoxication.

Non-Alcoholic Substitutions

1. Replace cognac with pear, apricot or peach juice. Use 100 percent juice mixes, rather than juice blends or juices with added sweeteners.

2. Juice fresh fruit in a juicer for best results. Strain the juice through a strainer to remove fruit particles from the juice before adding to the gravy.

3. Use the same amount of juice as you would use cognac in the recipe, adding it at the same time and preparing it as normal.

References

• Food Subs: Cognac Subs
• Gourmet Sleuth: Non-Alcoholic Subs for Cognac
• Fine Cooking: Cognac Gravy