If you’re craving something warming, hearty, and delightfully creamy without any dairy, this Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan) Recipe is exactly what you need on chilly days. It combines earthy mushrooms, tender potatoes, and protein-packed white beans all simmered in a luscious, herb-infused broth that feels like a comforting hug in a bowl. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or just exploring plant-based options, this stew’s rich flavors and satisfying texture will have you coming back for seconds — or thirds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows an overhead view of various cooking ingredients carefully arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center are a few whole mushrooms, their light brown caps with textured white stems facing upwards. Around them are half yellow potatoes, separated garlic cloves, and an onion half. A white plate holds two wooden spoons filled with dried herbs and a small bowl with butter cubes. There is a bowl filled with light beige beans, a smaller bowl of dark brown mushrooms, and two cream-colored bowls holding a light powder and a smooth brown paste. At the bottom, three small ceramic pitchers hold white milk, a dark liquid, and a golden broth. One small wooden spoon with coarse salt and pepper rests nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Sometimes the simplest ingredients come together to create magic, and this stew is a perfect example. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and warmth that’ll make this dish unforgettable.

  • 3 Tbsp vegan butter: Adds richness and helps sauté vegetables to golden perfection.
  • 1 medium onion, diced (~2 cups): Provides a sweet, savory base that mellows as it cooks.
  • 1 lb mushrooms, sliced (~7 cups): A mix of shiitake and cremini brings earthiness and meaty texture.
  • 3/4 tsp dried thyme: Infuses subtle floral, herbal notes.
  • 3/4 tsp dried rosemary: Adds a piney aroma that enhances the stew’s depth.
  • 3/4 tsp sea salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant, savory kick.
  • 2 Tbsp cornstarch (or all-purpose flour/GF blend): Thickens the stew to a creamy consistency without heaviness.
  • 2 tsp tamari or soy sauce: Boosts umami and deepens the savory profile (gluten-free options work great).
  • 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle tang and complexity.
  • 3 cups vegetable broth: Creates the flavorful liquid base for the stew.
  • 1 lb baby potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (~3 cups): Brings creaminess and body to the dish.
  • 2 (15 oz.) cans white beans, drained and rinsed: Cannellini beans offer a smooth, hearty texture and plant-based protein.
  • 2 cups dairy-free milk (plain, unsweetened): Almond milk works wonderfully to add creaminess without overpowering flavors.
  • Optional: fresh parsley, finely chopped: A bright, fresh garnish to finish the stew beautifully.

How to Make Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan) Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms

Start by melting your vegan butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, toss in the diced onion. Sauté until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add your mushroom mix, dried thyme, rosemary, sea salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring often, until mushrooms have released their moisture and turned golden brown. This step builds the deep, savory backbone of your stew that will make every spoonful taste rich and comforting.

Step 2: Infuse With Garlic and Thicken

Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just about a minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the cornstarch over the vegetables and mix well to coat everything evenly. This will help thicken the stew as it simmers, creating that creamy texture we love. Then add tamari and Dijon mustard, stirring to blend those layers of flavor seamlessly.

Step 3: Simmer the Potatoes in Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth along with the cubed baby potatoes, raising the heat to bring it all to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook until the potatoes are tender and ready to melt in your mouth. This simmer is where the stew starts to come alive, thickening and combining those delicious flavors.

Step 4: Add Beans, Milk, and Finish Simmering

Now it’s time to stir in the white beans and dairy-free milk. Keep the stew uncovered, letting it gently simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes. This lets the flavors meld perfectly and thickens the texture further — just the way a cozy stew should be. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed; add more tamari for saltiness, a splash more dairy-free milk if it feels too thick, or an extra pinch of mustard for a little zing. The best part? This stew improves as it cools and even better the next day!

How to Serve Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan) Recipe

A white shallow bowl is filled with a creamy soup containing thick slices of brown mushrooms, chunks of pale yellow potatoes, and white beans, all mixed in a light beige broth with specks of black pepper and small green parsley leaves scattered on top. A piece of toasted bread with a golden crust rests on the left side inside the bowl. The bowl is held by two woman's hands, one wearing a white knitted sleeve and a simple ring. The bowl sits on a rust-colored cloth over a white marbled surface, with fresh green parsley and whole mushrooms around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a lovely pop of color and a hint of brightness to balance the rich creaminess of the stew. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper goes a long way.

Side Dishes

This stew pairs beautifully with crusty artisan bread that’s perfect for dipping into every last spoonful. You might also love serving it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the stew in charming individual bowls for cozy dinners or ladle it over cooked grains like quinoa or brown rice for heartier bowls. For a fun twist, stuff it into hollowed-out bread bowls to make every bite filled with comforting goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After a satisfying meal, simply let the stew cool and transfer to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. The flavors continue to deepen, making your leftovers taste even better!

Freezing

This stew freezes beautifully, perfect for meal prep. Store portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, and they’ll keep tasty and fresh for up to 1 month. Remember to leave room for expansion to avoid spills.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. The stew will thicken after cooling, so add a little vegetable broth, water, or dairy-free milk to reach your preferred consistency while warming. It’s just as delightful the second time around.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beans for the stew?

Absolutely! While cannellini beans are classic, you can swap in great northern beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas depending on your pantry. Just make sure they’re cooked or canned for convenience.

Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes! Just be sure to choose a gluten-free tamari and either cornstarch or gluten-free flour as the thickener. It’s naturally free from gluten when these simple swaps are made.

Can I make this stew without vegan butter?

Definitely. Olive oil is a fine substitute and will still give you great flavor and a nice sauté for the onions and mushrooms. The richness might be slightly lighter but still satisfying.

How long does it take to cook this stew from start to finish?

This Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan) Recipe comes together in about 45 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it a practical choice for weeknight dinners or weekend comfort food.

Can I add other vegetables to this stew?

Feel free to get creative! Carrots, celery, kale, or spinach are excellent additions that complement the flavors and texture beautifully. Just add hearty veggies earlier and leafy greens towards the end to keep the best consistency.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a bowl of warm, homemade stew packed with wholesome ingredients and rich flavors. This Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan) Recipe is a true kitchen gem that brings comfort and nourishment with every spoonful. I truly hope you give it a try and make it a staple in your meal rotation — it’s a heartwarming hug on a plate you won’t regret!

Print

Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew (Vegan) Recipe

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4.2 from 3 reviews

A cozy, creamy, and flavorful vegan white bean and mushroom stew made with tender potatoes, aromatic herbs, and a luscious dairy-free broth. This one-pot dish is perfect for cooler weather and comforting meals, while being gluten-free and freezer-friendly.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 entrée servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Vegan
  • Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 3 Tbsp vegan butter (such as Miyoko’s) or olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced (~2 cups)
  • 1 lb mushrooms, sliced (about 7 cups; a mix of shiitake and cremini recommended)
  • 3/4 tsp dried thyme
  • 3/4 tsp dried rosemary
  • 3/4 tsp sea salt and pepper
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 Tbsp cornstarch (or all-purpose flour or gluten-free blend)
  • 2 tsp tamari or soy sauce (gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 lb baby potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (~3 cups)
  • 2 (15 oz) cans white beans, drained and rinsed (cannellini recommended or ~3 cups homemade)
  • 2 cups dairy-free milk (plain unsweetened, almond milk used; dairy options like 2% or whole milk can be substituted)

For Serving (Optional)

  • Fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms: Heat the vegan butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and sauté for a few minutes until softened. Add the sliced mushrooms, dried thyme, rosemary, sea salt, and pepper. Cook for 7-10 minutes until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  2. Thicken and Season: Sprinkle the cornstarch over the vegetables and stir to coat evenly. Add tamari and Dijon mustard, mixing well to combine.
  3. Add Broth and Potatoes: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the cubed baby potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add Beans and Dairy-Free Milk: Stir in the drained white beans and dairy-free milk. Continue to simmer uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until the stew thickens and vegetables are tender. Adjust seasoning as needed by adding more tamari or salt for saltiness, mustard for acidity, or more dairy-free milk to thin the stew slightly.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the warm stew into bowls. Optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. Serve with crusty bread if desired.
  6. Storage: Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 1 month. The stew will thicken after sitting; reheat while thinning with additional broth, dairy-free milk, or water as needed.

Notes

  • Nutrition information is a rough estimate calculated without optional garnishes.
  • This recipe is inspired by Cooking for Peanuts’ White Bean Mushroom Stew with Potatoes.
  • Use gluten-free tamari to keep the dish gluten-free.
  • Adjust seasoning carefully after simmering, as the flavors intensify during cooking.
  • Use a mix of mushrooms like shiitake and cremini for greater depth of flavor.

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