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 lentils (green or brown); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced; 1 medium carrot, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love cooking up a warm and hearty meal, especially on chilly evenings, and this Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew is one of my top choices. Packed with earthy flavors from mushrooms and rich lentils, it’s a comforting dish that never fails to impress. The creamy texture, achieved by using coconut milk, brings a delightful richness to the stew. Plus, it’s straightforward to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that I’m sure you’ll love just as much as I do!

Created by

Tabitha Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-15T17:53:34.635Z

When I first made this stew, I used a combination of wild mushrooms and hearty lentils, which transformed an ordinary dish into something extraordinary. The smell wafting through the kitchen was enough to make anyone stop in their tracks. I found that sautéing the mushrooms first really enhances their flavor and adds depth to the broth.

What makes this recipe special for me is the creamy coconut milk that blends beautifully with the spices. It gives the stew a silky texture that you just want to keep coming back to. I also learned that letting it simmer longer allows the flavors to develop even further, so don’t rush this step!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that comforts every spoonful
Nutritious lentils packed with protein and fiber
Earthy aromas that fill your kitchen with warmth

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of lentils and mushrooms in this stew not only creates a delightful flavor profile but also offers substantial nutritional benefits. Lentils are rich in protein and fiber, making them a wholesome component that keeps you feeling full longer. Meanwhile, mushrooms add a unique umami flavor, enhancing the stew's earthiness. When selecting mushrooms, I recommend using cremini or shiitake for a deeper taste, although button mushrooms work just fine in a pinch.

Coconut milk serves as a key player in achieving the creamy texture of this stew. Unlike dairy cream, coconut milk brings a hint of sweetness that balances the savory notes from the lentils and vegetables. If you're looking for a lighter option, you could substitute half of the coconut milk with vegetable broth, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the richness of the final dish.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the aromatics at the beginning is crucial for building a solid flavor base. Be sure not to rush this step; cook the onion and garlic over medium heat until they are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Undercooking them can result in a raw taste that doesn’t meld well throughout the stew. For added depth, you might consider deglazing the pot with a splash of white wine after browning the mushrooms—let it cook down for a minute to intensify the flavors.

When adding the lentils and spices, ensure they are mixed thoroughly so that each bite is packed with flavor. Monitor the cooking time for the lentils; they typically take about 30 minutes to become tender, but if you’re using older lentils, they may take a few minutes longer. If you find your stew too thick towards the end, simply stir in a bit more vegetable broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew

1 cup lentils (green or brown)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
1 medium carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside. Chop the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and slice the mushrooms.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add Mushrooms and Carrots

Stir in the sliced mushrooms and diced carrots, cooking until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 7 minutes.

Combine Lentils and Spices

Add the rinsed lentils, diced celery, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Pour in Liquid

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Finish with Coconut Milk

Stir in the coconut milk and let the stew simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce. Additionally, feel free to swap in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew is an excellent dish for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply place it in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the stew thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of vegetable broth to loosen it up. Alternatively, you can freeze the stew in airtight containers for up to three months; just remember to leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.

If you want to elevate leftovers, try topping the stew with freshly toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition. Alternatively, serve it over a bed of quinoa or rice for a quick and complete meal that feels different from the original dish.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to mix up the flavor profile of your stew by incorporating different herbs and spices. For a more Mediterranean twist, add oregano and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. On the other hand, if you’re aiming for a bit more spice, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the vegetables. The beauty of this stew is its adaptability, making it easy to cater to various tastes and preferences.

You can also incorporate different vegetables based on what you have on hand. Sweet potatoes, spinach, or even kale can be wonderful additions. Just remember to add heartier vegetables, like sweet potatoes, earlier in the cooking process, as they will require more time to become tender.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stew tastes even better the next day, and you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze this stew for up to 2 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or over rice for a heartier option.

→ Is it possible to add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or any other vegetables you enjoy or have on hand.