Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan)

Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan) is the perfect dish to warm you up during those chilly days. This creamy, hearty stew combines white beans, mushrooms, and potatoes with fragrant herbs for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. Ideal for cozy dinners or meal prep, it’s a nutritious option that everyone will love, regardless of dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just one pot and simple ingredients, this stew comes together quickly.
• Flavorful: The blend of mushrooms, herbs, and spices creates a rich, savory flavor profile.
• Healthy and Filling: Packed with plant-based protein from white beans and nutrients from vegetables, this stew is both nourishing and satisfying.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main course or side dish; it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over rice.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week. It freezes well too!

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan) is straightforward with the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A large pot or Dutch oven
• A cutting board
• A sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• A wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for even cooking and preventing overflow while simmering the stew.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures quick and easy slicing of onions and mushrooms for maximum flavor extraction.

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 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 ((1 lb yields ~7 cups // 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 Thickening

• 2 Tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tsp tamari or soy sauce ((ensure gluten-free as needed))
• 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard

For the Stew

• 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
• 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 over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms along with thyme, rosemary, sea salt, and pepper. Cook for 7-10 minutes until mushrooms brown.

Step 2: Thicken the Base

Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Sprinkle in cornstarch, stirring well to coat the vegetables evenly. Add tamari sauce and Dijon mustard; mix again until combined.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth

Pour in vegetable broth along with cubed potatoes. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Finish the Stew

Stir in drained white beans and dairy-free milk. Continue simmering uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until thickened. Adjust seasoning by adding more tamari or salt if needed.

Step 5: Serve

Serve warm with freshly chopped parsley on top for garnish along with cracked black pepper if desired.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for up to 1 month. Reheat gently adding more broth or dairy-free milk if needed to thin it out.

Enjoy this delightful Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan) as your next go-to comfort food!

How to Serve Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan)

This Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew is not only delicious but also versatile. You can elevate your serving experience with a few simple additions and garnishes.

Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Thyme: Add a few fresh thyme leaves to enhance the herbaceous notes in the stew.

Crusty Bread

• Sourdough: Serve with slices of warm sourdough bread for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Salad Options

• Mixed Greens: A light mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stew.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and complements the creamy texture of the stew.

Additional Toppings

• Nutritional Yeast: Sprinkle some nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy, savory flavor.
• Chili Flakes: If you enjoy heat, add chili flakes for a spicy kick!

How to Perfect Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan)

Enhancing your Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew can be easy with a few helpful tips. Here are some ideas to achieve that perfect bowl of comfort.

• Bold flavors: Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for brighter, more vibrant tastes.
• Texture variety: Consider adding different types of mushrooms for added depth and texture in each bite.
• Creaminess boost: For an even creamier stew, blend a portion of the beans with some dairy-free milk before adding them back in.
• Seasoning adjustments: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper based on your preference after cooking.
• Incorporate veggies: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like carrots or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Batch cooking: Make a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week; it freezes well!

Best Side Dishes for Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan)

Pairing your Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew with delightful side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crisp potatoes roasted with garlic make a perfect companion to soak up the stew’s flavors.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with chopped veggies adds protein and fiber while keeping things light.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli brings freshness and pairs well with the hearty stew.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the creamy stew; serve warm!
5. Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs or nuts can add an interesting texture while complementing the stew’s creaminess.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil bring out earthy flavors that harmonize well with this dish.
7. Rice Pilaf: Flavorful rice pilaf cooked with herbs makes an excellent base for serving your stew over.
8. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus offers a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with creamy soups.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a cozy white bean mushroom stew can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing onions and mushrooms enhances flavor. Don’t rush this step; it’s key to a delicious stew.
• Overcooking potatoes: If you cook potatoes too long, they can become mushy. Keep an eye on them and check for tenderness around 15 minutes.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Seasoning can vary based on ingredients. Taste your stew before serving and adjust salt or tamari as needed.
• Not using enough broth: A hearty stew needs enough liquid to maintain a creamy texture. Ensure you add sufficient vegetable broth.
• Forgetting the garnish: Fresh parsley adds brightness and flavor. Don’t skip this simple finishing touch; it elevates your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the stew to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew:

Can I customize the Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan)?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots or spinach for more nutrition and flavor.

How do I make this stew thicker?

If you want a thicker consistency, add more cornstarch mixed with water during cooking or let it simmer longer until desired thickness is reached.

Is Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan) gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure that the tamari or soy sauce used is labeled gluten-free.

What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

The Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew is not only warming but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste. This one-pot meal is perfect for cooler weather and is sure to satisfy everyone at your table.