Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew

Name: Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making this Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew whenever the weather turns chilly. The combination of earthy lentils and rich, sautéed mushrooms creates a satisfying dish that warms your soul. With a creamy texture from coconut milk and a hint of seasoning, this stew has become a family favorite. I appreciate how simple yet nourishing it is, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s packed with protein and flavor, ensuring everyone finishes their bowl with a smile!

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-01-15T19:45:39.339Z

I stumbled upon this recipe while experimenting with lentils and mushrooms in my kitchen. The creamy nature of this stew comes from the coconut milk, which balances beautifully with the savory mushrooms and wholesome lentils. I've found that adding a dash of smoked paprika elevates the flavor even further, giving it an unexpected richness.

One of my favorite things about this stew is its versatility. I can easily add seasonal vegetables or adjust the spices based on what I have on hand. It’s a comforting meal that not only satisfies my cravings but is also perfect for meal prepping throughout the week!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that warms you from the inside out
A hearty, plant-based meal that fills you up
Versatile and easy to customize with your favorite veggies

      

Cooking Technique Tips

When sautéing the onion, aim for it to become translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes over medium heat. This step is crucial, as it builds a flavor base for the stew. If you notice the onions are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to prevent them from burning, which can add bitterness to the dish.

For the mushrooms, look for a deep golden color when they are finished cooking; this indicates that they have released their moisture and begun to caramelize, enhancing their umami flavor. A good trick is to avoid crowding the pan with mushrooms, as this can cause them to steam rather than sauté, impacting the final texture.

Ingredient Roles and Substitutions

Lentils serve as the star of this dish, offering not just protein but also a hearty texture that holds up well in the creamy sauce. Green or brown lentils work best as they retain their shape better than red lentils. If you're looking for a lower-carb alternative, consider using cauliflower rice as a base instead of lentils, but be aware it will change the dish's overall heartiness.

The coconut milk not only provides creaminess but also a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements. If you need a substitute, unsweetened almond milk or cashew cream can work, but they won’t provide the same thickness. You may need to add a bit of cornstarch to mimic the creaminess of coconut milk.

Ingredients:

For the Stew

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are browned.

Cook the Lentils

Add the rinsed lentils, thyme, smoked paprika, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the lentils are tender.

Add Coconut Milk

Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving. It enhances the umami notes and balances the creaminess of the coconut milk.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare it a day ahead, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container for up to four days. Just reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it’s too thick.

If you wish to freeze the stew, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming on the stove. It’s a convenient option for busy weeknights!

Serving Ideas and Variations

This stew pairs perfectly with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad to add a crunch and balance to the hearty stew. For added flavor, consider topping it with a dollop of dairy-free yogurt or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.

For a spicier twist, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes along with the paprika. You can also experiment with different vegetables such as carrots or spinach, which can be added toward the end of cooking for a nutritional boost without compromising the stew's texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead?

Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time, but make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the stew.

→ Is this stew freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! This stew freezes well. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.

→ What can I substitute for coconut milk?

If you prefer, you can use heavy cream or cashew cream for a different flavor profile.

→ Can I add more vegetables to this stew?

Definitely! Feel free to throw in your favorite vegetables like spinach, kale, or carrots for added nutrition.