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, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (cremini and shiitake work well); 2 medium carrots, diced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup coconut milk; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love making this Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew on chilly evenings. The combination of hearty lentils and umami-rich mushrooms creates a deliciously comforting dish that warms both body and soul. What I appreciate most is how simple it is to prepare, yet the flavors meld beautifully into a creamy consistency that feels luxurious. Plus, it's a fantastic way to sneak in some nutritious ingredients while satisfying my craving for a hearty meal. This recipe is sure to become a staple in our household!

Created by

Jessica Brown

Last updated on 2026-01-15T18:35:35.326Z

When I first decided to create a mushroom lentil stew, I was eager to focus on rich flavors and creamy texture. I experimented with various herbs and spices, eventually settling on a perfect blend that highlights the earthiness of the mushrooms. The key is using a combination of both fresh and dried mushrooms for depth.

I love that this stew not only warms me up but also makes for fantastic leftovers. After a day in the fridge, the flavors deepen, and I often find it tastes even better. Plus, it freezes beautifully, making meal prep a breeze!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Silky texture thanks to the coconut milk
Robust flavors from fresh herbs and garlic
Perfect for meal prep or cozy family dinners

Understanding the Ingredients

The heart of this Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew lies in the lentils, which not only provide protein and fiber but also absorb the rich flavors of the broth and spices. I prefer green or brown lentils for their sturdiness; they hold their shape well during cooking unlike red lentils, which tend to break down and create a mushy consistency. When rinsing the lentils, ensure there are no small stones or debris remaining, as even the smallest bit can disrupt the texture of your dish.

Mushrooms add an essential umami flavor that elevates the stew's taste profile. I recommend using a mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms; cremini bring a robust earthiness, while shiitake contribute a rich, meaty flavor. If you're looking for variety or have dietary restrictions, consider replacing shiitake with oyster mushrooms or even canned mushrooms, though fresh is always preferred for texture and flavor in a stew.

Tips for Perfecting Your Stew

When sautéing the vegetables, keep an eye on the onion—once it turns translucent, it's crucial to add the garlic immediately to avoid browning it, which can lead to a bitter taste. Use medium heat throughout this process, ensuring that the aroma fills your kitchen without burning the ingredients. A good visual cue is when the garlic becomes fragrant and begins to slightly soften, usually taking about a minute after the onion is ready.

If you desire a thicker stew, add a tablespoon of flour when you’re sautéing the mushrooms, stirring it in until it’s fully absorbed before adding the lentils and broth. This will create a creamier base without relying solely on coconut milk. Conversely, for a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of coconut milk, or substitute it with almond milk or cashew cream, keeping in mind that they will change the flavor slightly.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to start your stew:

Ingredients

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

With these ingredients ready, we can dive into the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your creamy stew:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Add the Mushrooms and Carrots

Add the sliced mushrooms and diced carrots to the pot, cooking for about 5 minutes until the mushrooms reduce in size. Sprinkle in the dried thyme and smoked paprika, stirring well to combine.

Incorporate the Lentils and Broth

Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25 minutes until the lentils are tender.

Finish with Coconut Milk

Stir in the coconut milk and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the stew is too thick, feel free to add a bit more broth or water.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy mushroom lentil stew hot!

Your warm and delicious stew is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, try incorporating a splash of white wine when sautéing the vegetables. Additionally, feel free to toss in your favorite leafy green like spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew is ideal for meal prepping! You can prepare it up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just remember, if you use extra broth to loosen the texture, it may require a quick reheat in the stovetop with added fluid before serving. Reheating over low heat helps prevent the coconut milk from curdling.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the stew. It freezes well for up to three months. To thaw, simply move it to the fridge overnight or reheat it directly from frozen on the stovetop while stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to regain the desired consistency after thawing, as soups can thicken in the freeze.

Serving Suggestions

When serving this comforting stew, consider pairing it with freshly baked crusty bread to soak up those wonderful flavors. A dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of crumbled feta can add a nice tartness that balances the creamy elements beautifully. For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle with a little balsamic glaze or hot sauce to suit your tastes.

If you're looking to add some greens to your meal, serve it alongside a simple side salad with mixed greens, lemon vinaigrette, and nuts for an extra crunch and nutrition boost. This not only balances the heaviness of the stew but also fills your plate with vibrant colors, making every meal a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Absolutely! This stew tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes! This creamy mushroom lentil stew is entirely plant-based, making it a great option for vegans and vegetarians.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or even over a bed of quinoa for a complete meal.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Simply let the stew cool, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.