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 green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Ideas

I love making Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew on cool evenings when I crave something hearty and satisfying. This dish combines earthy lentils with the rich flavor of mushrooms, all enveloped in a creamy sauce that’s irresistible. What I adore most is how simple the ingredients are yet they create a complex depth of flavor. Cooking it is a breeze too; it simmers together beautifully and fills my home with an amazing aroma. It's the perfect comfort food to share with family or enjoy as a cozy dinner for one.

Created by

Marnie Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-15T17:25:35.606Z

When I first created this Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew, I wanted to showcase the combination of lentils and mushrooms in a way that highlights their natural flavors. After experimenting with a few spices, I found that a hint of thyme and garlic really elevate the dish. It’s amazing how a simple stew can warm you from the inside out on a chilly night.

One tip I discovered is to sauté the mushrooms until they are golden brown before adding the lentils. This technique intensifies their flavor and adds a deliciously robust element to the stew. Every spoonful is a delightful mix of creamy texture and earthy goodness that I just can’t get enough of!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that's incredibly filling.
Earthy flavor from the lentils and mushrooms.
Perfect for meal prep or cozy dinners.

      

Understanding the Key Ingredients

In this Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew, the star ingredients are undoubtedly the lentils and mushrooms. Lentils are not only a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, but they also absorb the flavors of the broth and seasonings wonderfully. I recommend using green or brown lentils for their firm texture, which holds up during cooking, avoiding mushiness that can occur with red lentils. If you're short on time, pre-cooked lentils can also be used; simply reduce the simmering time by half.

Mushrooms introduce a rich umami flavor that enhances the stew's depth. Varieties such as cremini or button mushrooms work beautifully, but feel free to experiment with shiitake or portobello for a more pronounced taste. When cooking the mushrooms, ensure you let them brown sufficiently; this caramelization is essential as it intensifies the flavor profile of the entire dish.

Tips for Perfecting Your Stew

To achieve that perfect creamy texture, be mindful when adding the coconut milk. Stir it in gently after the lentils are fully cooked to prevent it from curdling. If coconut milk isn’t on hand, cashew cream or heavy cream can be excellent alternatives, offering similar richness. Just remember that the flavors will vary slightly, with cashew cream providing a nuttier taste.

For those looking to amp up the flavor profile, consider adding a dash of soy sauce or nutritional yeast for an added umami kick. Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley not only add brightness to the dish but can also be substituted with dried versions if availability is an issue. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so reduce the amount used accordingly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious stew:

Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have everything prepared and ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a comforting bowl of creamy mushroom lentil stew:

Sauté the aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.

Cook the mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook them until they're browned and have released their moisture, about 5-7 minutes.

Add lentils and broth

Stir in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Bring it to a boil.

Simmer the stew

Reduce heat to low and let the stew simmer for 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Stir in coconut milk

Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the coconut milk and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your delicious creation!

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika when cooking the mushrooms.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Mushroom Lentil Stew is a fantastic candidate for meal prep. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights. If you want to batch cook, you can double the recipe and freeze portions for up to three months. Just make sure to leave some space in your containers, as liquids can expand when frozen.

To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if it seems too thick. I love to enjoy it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a satisfying meal.

Making It Your Own

Feel free to customize this stew by incorporating seasonal vegetables. Carrots, spinach, or zucchini can add additional nutrients and flavor. Just add them according to their cooking times—zucchini should be added in the last 10 minutes, while carrots may need to be included earlier, alongside the mushrooms, for optimal texture.

For those who appreciate a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce can bring an extra layer of flavor. Adjust the seasoning to your liking as you develop your ideal version of this cozy dish—cooking should be a personal and enjoyable experience!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of lentils?

Yes, you can use black or red lentils, but cooking times may vary slightly.

→ Is there a substitute for coconut milk?

Absolutely! You can use heavy cream or almond milk if you prefer.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-friendly containers.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew goes great with crusty bread, rice, or a simple side salad.