Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew

Name: Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup coconut milk; 2 carrots, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Ideas

I absolutely love making this Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew whenever I need a warm hug in a bowl. The combination of earthy lentils and rich mushroom flavors creates a cozy, satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Plus, the creamy texture, achieved without dairy, makes it a healthy alternative that everyone will enjoy. With a little prep, you can whip this dish up in no time, and it's packed with nutrients to nourish the body and soul. I guarantee this will become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Marigold Pearson

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:18:38.114Z

When I first decided to create this Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew, I was inspired by the comfort foods of my childhood. I remember the warmth of my grandmother's kitchen and how her hearty meals brought everyone together. While developing the recipe, I realized that combining mushrooms with lentils adds not only flavor but also a wonderful heartiness, perfect for chilly evenings.

A tip that I discovered while experimenting is to sauté the mushrooms until they are deeply browned. This intensifies their umami flavor, making the stew even more delicious. The result is a creamy, rich stew that I can't wait to share with friends and family!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling, perfect for a comforting meal
Packed with nutrients from lentils and vegetables
Creamy texture without using dairy, making it suitable for vegans

Choosing the Right Lentils

For this stew, both green and brown lentils work well due to their ability to hold their shape during cooking. They provide a hearty texture that complements the creamy broth. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, red lentils can also be used, but they will break down more, creating a thicker stew. Just be aware of the different cooking times; red lentils typically need only about 15-20 minutes.

Mushroom Selection and Preparation

When it comes to mushrooms, I recommend using a mix of cremini and shiitake for a depth of flavor, but white button mushrooms are also a budget-friendly option. Make sure to clean them gently with a damp cloth rather than rinsing under water, as mushrooms are like sponges and can absorb moisture, affecting their texture when cooked. Sauté them until golden brown; this step enhances their umami flavor and adds a robust element to the stew.

Storing and Reheating

This stew is ideal for meal prep and can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the consistency, as it may thicken in the fridge. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions of the stew. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers; it will keep well for up to three months.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make this delightful stew:

Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk
2 carrots, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Your comforting creamy stew is just a few steps away!

Instructions

Let’s get cooking!

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are browned, about 8 minutes.

Add the Lentils and Broth

Add the rinsed lentils, diced carrots, celery, and thyme to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and let the mixture come to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cover, cooking for about 25 minutes until the lentils are tender.

Make it Creamy

Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the coconut milk. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring often. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy every creamy, hearty bite!

Enjoy this comforting stew alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any additional vegetables you have on hand, like spinach or kale, for an extra nutrient boost. This stew also freezes well, making it a great meal prep option.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy mushroom lentil stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or quinoa for a more filling meal. For an extra layer of flavor, consider serving it with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkling of nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy, savory note without dairy. If you're looking for some crunch, a side salad with fresh greens can brighten the meal, bringing a nice contrast to the creamy stew.

You might also want to enhance the stew with additional spices. A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of curry powder can give it a delightful twist. For those who enjoy heat, adding red pepper flakes just before serving can elevate the dish and provide a nice kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture.

Variations to Try

Feeling adventurous? You can easily customize this stew by incorporating different vegetables. Add some chopped spinach or kale during the last five minutes of cooking for a nutrient boost and vibrant color. Root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes can also be added for a touch of sweetness and to enhance the stew's heartiness. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary based on the size and type of vegetables you use.

If you want to switch up the flavor profile even more, try adding a splash of soy sauce or tamari during the last stages of cooking. This adds a savory depth that blends beautifully with the earthy lentils and mushrooms. Experimenting with different herbs, such as rosemary or basil, can also provide exciting new flavors while keeping the creamy base intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of lentils?

Yes, red lentils can be used, but they may break down more and create a thicker stew.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes! The flavors actually deepen after a day in the fridge, making it even tastier.