Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan) is the perfect dish for chilly days. This warm, hearty stew combines creamy white beans and earthy mushrooms, making it an ideal comfort food. It’s versatile enough to serve as a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: This stew comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of herbs, garlic, and mushrooms creates a rich depth of flavor that will impress anyone.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and plant-based protein, this dish is nutritious and satisfying.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it alone or with crusty bread for dipping; it fits any occasion!
- Comforting and Cozy: Perfect for those cold nights when you crave something warm and filling.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan), having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before starting.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the stew evenly without burning.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure precise ingredient amounts for consistent results.
Ingredients
Cozy, creamy white bean and mushroom stew with potatoes and herbs. An easy, 1-pot entrée perfect for cooler weather. Vegan, gluten-free, and SO delicious!
For the Stew Base
- 3 Tbsp vegan butter (we like Miyoko’s // or sub olive oil)
- 1 medium onion, diced (1 medium onion yields ~2 cups)
- 1 lb mushrooms, sliced (we like a mixture of shiitake and cremini)
- 3/4 tsp dried thyme
- 3/4 tsp dried rosemary
- 3/4 tsp sea salt and pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Thickness
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp tamari or soy sauce (ensure gluten-free as needed)
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
For the Body
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 lb baby potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (1 lb yields ~3 cups)
- 2 (15 oz.) cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups dairy-free milk
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan)
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the vegan butter to a large pot or Dutch oven and heat over medium heat. Once melted:
Add the diced onion and sauté for a few minutes until softened.
Stir in the sliced mushrooms, thyme, rosemary, sea salt, and pepper. Cook for 7–10 minutes until mushrooms are browned.
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Thicken the Stew Base
Next:
Sprinkle cornstarch over the vegetables; stir well to coat them evenly.
Add tamari and Dijon mustard; mix again to combine.
Pour in vegetable broth along with cubed potatoes; bring this mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Simmer Until Tender
Once boiling:
Reduce heat to low; let simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally.
Step 4: Finalize the Stew
Stir in drained white beans along with dairy-free milk:
Continue simmering uncovered for another 10–15 minutes until everything is thickened. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Serve warm:
Optionally garnish with fresh parsley and cracked black pepper on top.
Enjoy your cozy meal! Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3–4 days or freeze for up to 1 month. When reheating, add broth or water if it has thickened too much.
How to Serve Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan)
Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew is perfect for warm and comforting meals. It can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation.
Cozy Bowls
- Serve the stew in deep bowls topped with fresh parsley for a pop of color and enhanced flavor.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a savory touch.
Crusty Bread
- Pair the stew with slices of crusty bread, like sourdough or baguette, perfect for dipping.
- Warm the bread slightly in the oven to make it even more inviting.
Salad on the Side
- A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the hearty stew well.
- Include ingredients like arugula, cherry tomatoes, and avocado for freshness.
Rice or Quinoa
- Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or cooked quinoa for added texture and nutrition.
- This makes the dish more filling and adds an extra layer of flavor.
Vegan Cheese
- Top the stew with crumbled vegan cheese for an indulgent twist.
- Options like cashew cheese or store-bought varieties work beautifully.
Extra Herbs
- Garnish with additional herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the aromatic flavors.
- Fresh herbs can brighten up the dish and elevate its presentation.
How to Perfect Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan)
To make your Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew even better, consider these handy tips.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh mushrooms and herbs will maximize flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go. Adjust salt, pepper, or acidity with lemon juice or vinegar based on your preference.
- Thicken Naturally: If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some beans before adding them to release their starches.
- Use Leftovers Creatively: Leftover stew can be used as a filling for wraps or served over baked potatoes for variety.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add spices like smoked paprika or cumin for added depth.
- Serve Warm: Always serve your stew warm; reheating it gently preserves its texture and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan)
Pairing side dishes with your Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread – Toasted bread brushed with garlic-infused olive oil brings warmth and enhances the meal’s comfort factor.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition; think carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini.
- Caesar Salad – A vegan Caesar salad provides crunch and creaminess that contrasts nicely with the stew’s texture.
- Steamed Greens – Lightly steamed kale or spinach adds nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
- Polenta Cakes – Crispy polenta cakes provide a delightful crunch alongside the creamy stew.
- Mashed Potatoes – Classic mashed potatoes make a cozy pairing that complements the stew’s flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.
- Using the wrong type of mushrooms: Different mushrooms have varying flavors. Using just one type may result in a less complex taste. Opt for a mix of shiitake and cremini for depth.
- Not sautéing enough: Sautéing the onions and mushrooms properly enhances their flavor. Take your time to allow them to brown before adding other ingredients.
- Skipping the seasoning adjustments: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning as you cook. The stew can become bland without proper seasoning tweaks.
- Ignoring the simmer time: Allowing the stew to simmer is crucial for developing flavors. Be patient and let it cook uncovered until ingredients are tender.
- Overlooking storage tips: Improper storage can affect the stew’s texture and flavor. Store it in airtight containers and consume within recommended time frames.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan)
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
- The stew can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Reheating Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm gently in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan) special?
This stew combines creamy white beans with flavorful mushrooms and herbs, creating a comforting dish perfect for cooler weather.
Can I customize the vegetables in this vegan stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like carrots, spinach, or kale according to your preference.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This stew stores well and is ideal for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.
How do I thicken my Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew if it’s too thin?
If your stew is too thin, simply let it simmer longer uncovered or stir in a bit more cornstarch mixed with water until thickened.
Final Thoughts
The Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with various vegetables or spices based on what you have on hand. Perfect for cozy nights and meal prepping, give this recipe a try!
Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan)
Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan) is a heartwarming dish perfect for chilly days. This creamy, one-pot stew blends tender white beans with earthy mushrooms and an array of herbs, creating a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Packed with flavor yet simple to prepare, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. Plus, it caters to vegan and gluten-free diets, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious bowl of warmth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients
- 3 Tbsp vegan butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 lb mixed mushrooms (shiitake and cremini), sliced
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 2 (15 oz.) cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 lb baby potatoes, cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until softened.
- Add sliced mushrooms, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper; cook until mushrooms are browned. Stir in minced garlic.
- Sprinkle cornstarch over the veggies; mix well. Add tamari and Dijon mustard.
- Pour in vegetable broth and cubed potatoes; bring to a boil then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in white beans and dairy-free milk; simmer for another 10-15 minutes until thickened. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
