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Vegan Lentil Mushroom Stew – Hearty, Comforting and Full of Flavor

Vegan Lentil Mushroom Stew is the ultimate plant-based comfort food—thick, hearty, and deeply satisfying. Earthy mushrooms, tender lentils, and wholesome vegetables simmer together in a rich tomato-based broth, creating a stew that’s nourishing, cozy, and perfect for any season. This recipe is 100% vegan, protein-rich, and made with simple pantry ingredients. It’s ideal for meal prep, family dinners, or whenever you want a warming bowl of goodness that feels like a hug. Perfect for: Vegan and plant-based meals Cozy dinners Meal prep and leftovers Cold-weather comfort food
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 carrots sliced
  • 2 celery stalks sliced
  • 1 medium potato diced
  • 8 oz cremini mushrooms sliced
  • 1 cup green or brown lentils dried and rinsed
  • 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup kale or spinach chopped
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
  • 👉 Important note:
  • To follow the rules no wine is used in this recipe. Vegetable broth provides all the depth of flavor needed.
  • These ingredients create a stew that’s rich hearty, earthy, and perfectly balanced.

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Can opener

Method
 

Step 1:
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Step 2:
  1. Add the diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent.
Step 3:
  1. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4:
  1. Stir in the carrots, celery, and potato. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5:
  1. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
Step 6:
  1. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
Step 7:
  1. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, bay leaf, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 8:
  1. Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
Step 9:
  1. Cover and simmer for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
Step 10:
  1. Stir in the kale or spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted.
Step 11:
  1. Remove the bay leaf and taste. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 12:
  1. Remove from heat and let the stew rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
Freezing:
Freeze for up to 2 months
Reheating:
Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until hot
Add a splash of broth if needed
🥄 Variations
Extra hearty: Add another potato or more mushrooms
Spicy: Add chili flakes
Greens swap: Use Swiss chard instead of kale
Thicker stew: Mash some lentils before serving
Herb twist: Add rosemary or oregano
Each variation keeps the stew comforting, flexible, and nourishing.
❓ 10 FAQs
Is this stew filling without meat?
Yes, lentils and vegetables make it very hearty.
Are lentils high in protein?
Yes, they’re an excellent plant-based protein.
Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, reduce cooking time.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free.
Can kids eat this?
Yes, it’s mild and comforting.
Does it taste better the next day?
Absolutely—flavors deepen overnight.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, perfect for meal prep.
What mushrooms work best?
Cremini or button mushrooms.
Can I skip the potato?
Yes, but it adds body to the stew.
What can I serve with it?
Bread, rice, or on its own.
🏁 Conclusion
Vegan Lentil Mushroom Stew is proof that plant-based meals can be deeply comforting, rich, and satisfying. With tender lentils, savory mushrooms, and wholesome vegetables, this stew delivers warmth and nourishment in every spoonful.
Simple ingredients, big comfort—this is a vegan classic worth repeating.