There’s something magical about a warm bowl of stew on a chilly evening — and this Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew delivers all the comforting, soul-soothing vibes you’re craving. It’s hearty without being heavy, rich in umami from the mushrooms, and perfectly creamy thanks to the white beans and plant-based milk. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a satisfying dinner the whole family can enjoy, this vegan stew checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Stew
- Comforting and cozy – The combination of creamy white beans, mushrooms, and potatoes makes this stew incredibly satisfying.
- One-pot meal – Less cleanup, more enjoyment.
- Perfect for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day!
- Vegan and gluten-free friendly – Naturally plant-based and easy to adapt.
- Budget-friendly – Uses pantry staples and seasonal veggies.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons vegan butter (or olive oil)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 2 cups)
- 1 pound mushrooms, sliced (cremini, button, or a mix)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¾ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ¾ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons tamari or soy sauce (use gluten-free tamari if needed)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 pound baby potatoes, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond, oat, or soy)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat vegan butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until translucent. - Cook the mushrooms
Add sliced mushrooms, dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 7–10 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown. - Add garlic and thicken
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Sprinkle in cornstarch and stir to coat the veggies evenly. - Add flavor boosters
Stir in tamari and Dijon mustard. Pour in the vegetable broth and mix well. - Simmer with potatoes
Add the chopped baby potatoes. Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. - Finish with beans and milk
Stir in the white beans and plant-based milk. Let the stew simmer for another 10–15 minutes to thicken and allow flavors to develop. - Taste and serve
Adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and top with freshly chopped parsley and extra black pepper.
Recipe Summary
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serving Size: 6 servings
Yield: Approximately 6 bowls of stew
Cuisine: Vegan / Plant-Based
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Stew
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Fat: ~10 g
- Carbohydrates: ~48 g
- Fiber: ~12 g
- Protein: ~12 g
Note: Nutritional values will vary based on ingredients used.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze in individual portions for up to 1 month.
- Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or plant milk to loosen if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for the ultimate cozy meal.
- Ladle it over a bowl of rice or quinoa for added bulk.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for balance.
- Add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or a drizzle of vegan sour cream for extra richness.
Helpful Tips & Variations
- Mushroom variety matters – Use a mix of cremini, shiitake, and even portobello for deeper flavor.
- More greens? Yes please. Add a handful of spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrients.
- Don’t rush the mushrooms. Let them caramelize slightly for the best taste.
- No white beans? You can sub with chickpeas or butter beans.
- Make it spicy. Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
Final Thoughts
This Cozy White Bean Mushroom Stew is more than just a cold-weather dish — it’s a bowl of comfort that’s easy to make, full of nourishing ingredients, and endlessly customizable. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, lunch leftovers, or curling up on the couch with your favorite blanket and a big, warm bowl.