Cozy Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew
Try this Cozy Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Cozy Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew recipe, or contribute your own.
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 large shallot
- 8 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons coconut or olive oil
- 3/4 cup lentils (i used french green as they hold they sha
- 300 g mushrooms (a super heaped breakfast bowl full – i brown and shiitake)
- 1 fennel bulb medium
- 1 leek, green tips discarded
- 1 stick of celery
- generous grind of freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 litre (4 cups) vegetable stock
- 1 cup coconut milk (full fat tinned)
- small bunch fresh chives
- bunch of chervil
- large bunch parsley flat leaf
- Carbohydrate 3.05149000000128 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.06008 g
- Fiber 0.204899991989136 g
- Protein 0.52943 g
- Saturated Fat 0.01303 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (94g)
- Sodium 1.8380000000639 mg
- Sugar 2.84659000801214 g
- Trans Fat 0.01701 g
- Calories 15 calories
Step-by-step
- The night before you are ready to cook (or even, the morning of), soak the lentils in ample water, then drain and rinse, and set aside.
- Prep your vegetables: finely slice the shallot, fennel and leek. Peel and roughly chop the garlic. Chop the celery fine. Wash and slice the mushrooms, you may like to trim the woody ends off the shiitake.
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons oil, then add shallot, fennel and leek, cooking till soft and a little golden.
- Add celery, mushrooms, lentils, pepper, bay leaves, white wine vinegar and vegetable stock.
- Cover and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, and cook till lentils are soft, about 20-25 minutes.
- Remove lid, add coconut milk, and stir to combine.
- Turn the heat up and let the stew reduce down for another 10 minutes.
- Once done, remove from heat, fish out the bay leaves and discard.
- Measure out 2 1/2 cups of the stew – blend then re-combine (or, use an immersion stick-blender).
- Wash the fresh herbs, finely chop the chives and roughly chop the chervil and parsley.
- Fold through the stew and serve.
Cozy Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew: A Weeknight Wonder
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious meal can feel like a Herculean task. But this Cozy Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew is my secret weapon for a satisfying and nutritious dinner that's ready in under an hour. Forget takeout – this recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor.
The beauty of this stew lies in its simplicity. The rich, earthy flavors of mushrooms and lentils are perfectly complemented by the subtle sweetness of fennel and leek. A splash of white wine vinegar adds a bright acidity that cuts through the creaminess of the coconut milk, creating a beautifully balanced taste. And let's not forget the vibrant pop of fresh herbs at the end – chives, chervil, and parsley bring a fresh, herbaceous note that elevates the whole dish.
Why I Love This Recipe:
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is always a bonus, especially on a busy weeknight.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to adapt the recipe to your liking. Substitute different mushrooms, add other vegetables like carrots or potatoes, or experiment with different herbs.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Soaking the lentils overnight saves valuable time on cooking day. You can even prep the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge.
- Freezer-Friendly: Leftovers are amazing! This stew freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping.
- Healthy and Hearty: Packed with protein and fiber, this stew will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Beyond the Recipe:
This stew is more than just a meal; it's a comforting hug in a bowl. The creamy texture and rich flavors make it perfect for a chilly evening, and it's a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables. I often serve it with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping – the perfect way to soak up every last drop of deliciousness. I've also found that adding a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream adds another layer of creamy texture and tang.
Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this Cozy Creamy Mushroom Lentil Stew is a recipe you'll want to keep in your culinary arsenal. It's a simple yet elegant dish that's sure to impress your family and friends. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the cozy comfort of a truly delicious and satisfying meal.
Tips and Tricks:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of different types of mushrooms.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs – thyme, rosemary, or oregano would also be delicious.
- If you don't have white wine vinegar, you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
- For a smoother texture, blend the entire stew instead of just a portion.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
- Top with a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream.
- Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy!
