Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew

Name: Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 ounces mixed mushrooms, sliced (button and cremini work well); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk; 4 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Favorites

I absolutely love making this Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew when the weather turns chilly. It has a comforting, velvety texture that warms you from the inside out. Each spoonful is filled with hearty lentils and rich mushrooms, creating a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. Not to mention, the addition of spices and coconut milk elevates the flavors to a whole new level. Whether for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe never disappoints.

Created by

Lauren Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:49:35.827Z

When I first experimented with this Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew, I aimed to create a dish that was rich and filling, yet simple enough to whip up on busy weeknights. After several tries, I discovered that using a mix of fresh and dried mushrooms brings out an incredible depth of flavor while the lentils provide a nutritious base that packs a protein punch.

To enhance the creaminess, I turned to coconut milk instead of heavy cream, keeping it lighter without sacrificing that rich texture we crave. This small swap not only makes it more wholesome but also adds a delightful hint of sweetness. It’s become a staple in my kitchen!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Satisfying blend of earthy mushrooms and protein-packed lentils.
Creamy and velvety texture from coconut milk without the heaviness.
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

      

Ingredient Insights

The key to achieving the creamy texture in this Mushroom Lentil Stew lies in the use of coconut milk. It not only enriches the dish but also provides a subtle sweetness that balances the earthiness of the lentils and mushrooms. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, this is an excellent option. However, you can also use cashew cream or heavy cream if you prefer a non-vegan recipe.

Brown lentils are ideal for this stew because they hold their shape during cooking. Unlike green or red lentils, which can turn mushy, brown lentils maintain a satisfying bite. If you decide to substitute with another type, adjust the cooking time accordingly; for instance, red lentils will cook much faster, so they should only be added midway through the simmering process.

Cooking Techniques

When sautéing the onions and garlic, be wary of browning them too much. You want the onions to become translucent and slightly golden—this sweetness enhances the overall flavor of the stew. If you notice browning too quickly, reduce the heat to low to avoid burnt bits, which can make the dish taste bitter.

After adding the lentils and liquids, it's crucial to bring the stew to a rolling boil before reducing the heat to low. This allows the lentils to absorb flavors efficiently. Keep an eye on the stew as it simmers; stirring it occasionally will prevent the lentils from settling at the bottom and sticking to the pot.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

If you're in the mood for an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of soy sauce for umami. This can elevate the dish to new flavor heights. Additionally, tossing in some leafy greens like spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking adds a nutrient boost and vibrant color.

This stew is versatile when it comes to meal prep. It can be refrigerated for up to a week, and the flavors actually deepen over time. To reheat, simply add a splash of vegetable broth to loosen the consistency, as the lentils may absorb too much liquid when stored. It also freezes well; just make sure to portion it out for easy servings later on.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew:

Ingredients

1 cup brown lentils, rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces mixed mushrooms, sliced (button and cremini work well)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
4 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your flavorful stew:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot, cooking until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 8 minutes. Stir in the dried thyme and smoked paprika.

Incorporate the Lentils

Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, then pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Stew

Reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and add salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Once done, ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy the comforting flavors!

This stew is best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of soy sauce during cooking. You can also substitute the lentils with chickpeas for a different texture.

Garnishing and Final Touches

For the perfect finishing touch, garnish your stew with freshly chopped parsley. Not only does it add a pop of color, but fresh herbs also brighten the flavors, contrasting nicely with the rich and creamy base. You could also experiment with toppings like toasted seeds or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for additional flavor.

Consider serving the stew alongside crusty bread or over a bed of quinoa for a heartier meal. The bread will soak up the stew flavors beautifully, creating a satisfying dining experience. Pairing it with a simple side salad dressed in lemon vinegarette can also balance the richness of the stew.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you find yourself without brown lentils, green lentils can be a suitable substitute as long as you monitor the cooking time closely; they tend to have a firmer texture. For mushrooms, feel free to use whatever variety you have on hand, like shiitake or portobello, but keep in mind that this may alter the flavor profile.

Should coconut milk not be available, you can replace it with another plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk. However, these alternatives will yield a less creamy texture, so consider thickening your stew with a bit of cornstarch mixed with water if you wish to maintain that velvety finish.

Nutritional Benefits

This Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew is packed with health benefits. Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, promoting a feeling of fullness and aiding in digestive health. They also provide essential nutrients such as iron and folate, which are particularly important if you're following a vegan or vegetarian diet.

Mushrooms are not only low in calories but also high in antioxidants, making them a great addition to any meal. They can help boost your immune system and reduce inflammation. The healthy fats from the olive oil and coconut milk contribute to heart health, making this stew a nutritious option for any meal planner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of lentils?

Yes, you can substitute with red lentils, but note that they cook faster and will create a thicker stew.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan as it uses coconut milk and vegetable broth.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, this stew freezes well! Just make sure to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs well with crusty bread or over cooked rice or quinoa for a complete meal.