Creamy Mushroom White Bean Stew

Name: Creamy Mushroom White Bean Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups mixed mushrooms, sliced (e.g., cremini, shiitake, button); 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried); Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Creamy Mushroom White Bean Stew, especially during the colder months. The combination of earthy mushrooms and creamy white beans creates a rich, hearty meal that's both satisfying and nourishing. When I first experimented with adding fresh herbs and a splash of lemon juice, I was amazed at how vibrant it made the stew taste! It's a great dish for meal prep, and I find myself looking forward to enjoying the leftovers throughout the week.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:37:14.497Z

When I first discovered the magic of mushrooms in stew, I was hooked. I wanted to create a dish that highlighted their deep earthy flavors while also featuring the creaminess of white beans. After a few tries in my kitchen, I found that using a mix of sautéed and fresh mushrooms added a wonderful texture and depth to the dish that I couldn't resist.

Adding in garlic and a hint of fresh thyme not only boosts the flavor but also complements the creaminess perfectly. I recommend letting the stew simmer gently, as it enhances the taste by allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, earthy flavors that warm you up from the inside
Creamy texture that makes each bite comforting
Perfect weeknight meal that's easy to prepare

      

Ingredient Insights

The choice of mushrooms in this stew is crucial for creating that rich, earthy flavor profile. A mix of cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms provides a delicious depth. Cremini mushrooms offer a robust flavor, shiitakes add a hint of umami, and button mushrooms keep things mellow. If you can't find fresh shiitakes, feel free to replace them with more creminis or even some dried shiitakes that you rehydrate. This substitution won't compromise the stew's outcome.

Coconut milk not only lends creaminess but also infuses the stew with a subtle sweetness that balances the savoriness of the mushrooms and beans. If you're looking for a lighter option, unsweetened almond milk or cashew milk can serve as alternatives. Keep in mind that while these milks will change the flavor slightly, they will still contribute to the overall creaminess you want in this dish.

Cooking Techniques

When sautéing the onions and garlic, aim for a translucent finish for the onions—this usually takes about five minutes. Keep your heat at medium to avoid browning; caramelized bits stuck to the pot can contribute off-flavors in the stew. My tip is to stir frequently, ensuring that the garlic doesn’t burn, which can turn its flavor bitter in just a matter of seconds.

For the mushrooms, don't overcrowd the pot when you initially add them. This allows them to brown slightly and develop a nice texture. If you notice moisture in the pot, that’s normal; it will reduce as everything simmers together. During this stage, the mushrooms should be tender and should have reduced in size, typically taking about 7-8 minutes.

Storage and Meal Prep

This stew is a fantastic make-ahead option; its flavors deepen as it sits. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash more vegetable broth or coconut milk to restore its creamy consistency. If you're preparing for a busy week, consider doubling the recipe—this keeps well and makes for quick meals.

If you want to freeze this stew, portion it out in freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, allow it to defrost in the fridge overnight or use the microwave until completely warmed. Just like fresh, frozen stew may need a little adjustment in seasoning after reheating, so keep salt and pepper handy!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to whip up a delicious Creamy Mushroom White Bean Stew.

Ingredients

2 cups mixed mushrooms, sliced (e.g., cremini, shiitake, button)
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure you have everything ready to create this lovely stew!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your stew come together seamlessly.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Add Mushrooms and Herbs

Stir in the sliced mushrooms and fresh thyme. Cook for about 7-8 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture.

Combine the Remaining Ingredients

Add the white beans, vegetable broth, and coconut milk to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally and season with salt and pepper.

Finish with Lemon and Serve

Once the stew is thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Your Creamy Mushroom White Bean Stew is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an added depth of flavor, try incorporating different types of mushrooms or adding a splash of white wine before simmering.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Creamy Mushroom White Bean Stew, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice. This adds extra fiber and a nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully. A slice of crusty whole-grain bread alongside can also be a delightful pairing for dipping.

For a fresh contrast, a simple side salad with mixed greens dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette can enhance your meal. The acidity from the lemon vinaigrette mirrors the lemon juice in the stew, creating a cohesive dining experience. Add some thinly sliced radishes or cherry tomatoes for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Variations to Try

Feel free to switch up the herbs in this stew. Fresh rosemary or oregano can bring a wonderful aromatic dimension, while a pinch of red pepper flakes could add a gentle heat if you're in the mood for a kick. Alternatively, for an Asian twist, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or miso paste during the simmering phase.

If you're looking to pack even more nutrition into this stew, consider adding leafy greens like kale or spinach in the final steps. They wilt beautifully and integrate seamlessly while providing an excellent source of vitamins. Just toss them in when you stir in the lemon juice—watch them become tender in mere minutes for an added health boost!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen mushrooms?

Yes, you can use frozen mushrooms, just make sure to sauté them well to remove excess moisture.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses coconut milk and no animal products.

→ How can I thicken the stew more?

If you'd like a thicker stew, you can mash some of the white beans before adding them or mix in a cornstarch slurry.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.