Lentil Mushroom Stroganoff is a wholesome and creamy twist on the classic beef stroganoff, made with savory mushrooms and protein-packed lentils simmered in a velvety sauce. This vegetarian-friendly recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, and it’s easily adaptable to be vegan or gluten-free. In this article, we’ll cover everything from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to variations, storage, FAQs, and serving ideas.
Looking for inspiration? Try Very Veggie Lentil Bake for another hearty vegetarian dinner idea.
Why You’ll Love This Lentil Mushroom Stroganoff
Comforting and Wholesome
This recipe combines earthy mushrooms and lentils in a creamy sauce for a filling, balanced dish.
Quick and Easy
With a 40-minute cooking time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Adaptable for Diets
Swap in vegan sour cream or cashew cream, and use gluten-free flour for dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt (divided)
- 1 lb (450g) mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1.5 cups vegetable stock
- 1.5 tbsp flour (or gluten-free flour if needed)
- 2–3 tbsp water or stock (for slurry)
- 1.5 cups cooked brown lentils (canned or pre-cooked)
- ½ cup sour cream (or vegan sour cream)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Discover great ideas like Lentil and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls for another hearty vegetarian recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Wash and slice the mushrooms evenly so they cook uniformly.
- Finely chop the onion and garlic for maximum flavor release.
- If using canned lentils, drain and rinse them well.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
- Heat 1.5 tbsp olive oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and ½ tsp salt.
- Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and golden. This step builds the flavor foundation.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
- In a separate pan, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and the remaining ½ tsp salt.
- Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring often, until the mushrooms are browned and some of their liquid evaporates.
Don’t miss our Creamy Mushroom Chicken if you love mushroom-based comfort dishes.
Step 4: Combine and Season
- Transfer the cooked mushrooms into the onion pan.
- Stir in garlic, Dijon mustard, and black pepper.
- Pour in 1.5 cups vegetable stock.
- Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 5: Make the Slurry
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1.5 tbsp flour and 2–3 tbsp water or stock.
- Whisk until smooth with no lumps.
- This slurry will thicken the sauce.
Step 6: Add Lentils and Thicken the Sauce
- Stir in the cooked lentils.
- Slowly add the slurry while stirring continuously.
- Cook for another 3–4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken into a creamy consistency.
Check out Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry for another satisfying mushroom dish.
Step 7: Finish with Sour Cream
- Reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in ½ cup sour cream (or vegan sour cream).
- Mix until the sauce is silky and fully incorporated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot over your choice of mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice.
Looking for another cozy recipe? Try our Vegan Lemon Lentil Soup with Turmeric for a warming bowl.
Variations You Can Try
- Vegan Version: Replace sour cream with cashew cream or vegan sour cream.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour in the slurry.
- Extra Vegetables: Add peas, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Spicy Stroganoff: Add chili flakes or smoked paprika.
- Different Mushrooms: Try shiitake, cremini, or portobello for depth.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of vegetable stock if the sauce is too thick.
FAQs about Lentil Mushroom Stroganoff
1. Can I use green lentils instead of brown?
Yes, green lentils work fine but stay a bit firmer.
2. Can I make it ahead?
Yes, you can prepare it a day before and reheat gently.
3. What can I serve with stroganoff?
It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.
4. Is there a vegan option for sour cream?
Yes, cashew cream or store-bought vegan sour cream works great.
5. How do I make it spicier?
Add smoked paprika or a pinch of chili flakes.
Conclusion
Lentil Mushroom Stroganoff is a cozy, protein-rich, vegetarian dinner that brings classic comfort in every bite. With its creamy sauce, hearty lentils, and earthy mushrooms, it’s quick to prepare, customizable for dietary needs, and perfect for meal prep. Serve it with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, and enjoy a wholesome meal that the whole family will love.