Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff – Creamy, Comforting, and Delicious

Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff – Comfort Food for the Whole Family

When it comes to family meals, nothing beats a hearty and satisfying dish like Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff. I love making this for gatherings because it’s rich, comforting, and easy to whip up. The mushrooms add a savory, umami flavor that even non-vegans enjoy, and the creamy sauce makes it feel like a real indulgence. This dish is perfect for cozy nights at home or when you want to serve something a little more special without spending hours in the kitchen. What I love most is how easy it is to adjust the recipe based on what mushrooms you have on hand. Whether it’s button mushrooms, shiitake, or portobello, this stroganoff turns out delicious every time. Plus, it’s great for leftovers—if there’s any left!

Did you know?
Mushrooms are not only a delicious addition to many meals, but they also pack a nutritional punch. They are a great source of B vitamins, selenium, and antioxidants. In this Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff, mushrooms take center stage, providing a meaty texture while keeping the dish plant-based. The combination of mushrooms and a creamy, dairy-free sauce makes this meal both comforting and nutrient-rich. With every bite, you're enjoying a hearty, satisfying dish that's lighter than traditional stroganoff, while still being rich in flavor.

Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound mixed mushrooms (such as button, cremini, shiitake, and portobello), sliced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk or cashew cream
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Cooked pasta or rice for serving

Instructions:

Prepare the Stroganoff:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Personal Tip: Use a large skillet so the mushrooms have room to cook evenly without crowding.

Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Personal Tip: Stir frequently to avoid burning the onions, as this will give the stroganoff a bitter flavor.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Personal Tip: If you prefer less garlic, reduce it to 2 cloves for a milder flavor.

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
Personal Tip: Don’t stir too often—letting the mushrooms sit helps them brown and develop a deeper flavor.

Stir in the dried thyme, smoked paprika, and soy sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes.
Personal Tip: Smoked paprika gives a subtle smoky flavor, but regular paprika works well too.

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Personal Tip: Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control the saltiness of the dish.

Stir in the coconut milk or cashew cream and nutritional yeast. If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in a little water and add it to the skillet, stirring well.
Personal Tip: Cashew cream adds a rich, nutty flavor if you want to make the dish extra creamy.

Simmer the stroganoff for 5-10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Personal Tip: Taste as you go—adding more seasoning at the end can make a big difference in flavor.

Serve:

Serve the mushroom stroganoff over cooked pasta or rice.
Personal Tip: Whole-grain pasta or brown rice adds extra fiber and makes the dish even heartier.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Personal Tip: Parsley brightens up the dish, adding a fresh, herbal note to the rich sauce.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 300; Fat: 18g; Saturated Fat: 10g; Carbohydrates: 30g; Fiber: 5g; Sugars: 4g; Protein: 7g

Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money

Bulk Buying: Purchase mushrooms and onions in bulk. These ingredients are versatile and can be used in various recipes, reducing the cost per unit and saving you money in the long run. Store mushrooms in a paper bag in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life.
Homemade Vegetable Broth: If store-bought vegetable broth is expensive or contains unwanted additives, consider making your own using vegetable scraps and water. This can be more cost-effective and allows you to control the flavor and ingredients. Freeze the broth in portions to use whenever needed.
Reusable Storage Containers: Invest in reusable storage containers for your stroganoff. These containers are not only environmentally friendly but also save money over time compared to disposable options. They also make meal prep and storage easier and more efficient.
Energy Efficiency: Cook large batches of stroganoff and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. This saves on energy costs and makes meal prep more efficient. You can portion out the stroganoff into individual servings for quick and easy meals throughout the week.
Smart Storage: Store any leftover stroganoff in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for several days, providing a convenient and delicious meal throughout the week. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredient Substitutions: If certain ingredients are unavailable or too expensive, consider substituting them with more affordable alternatives. For example, use button mushrooms instead of more expensive varieties, or substitute the coconut milk with almond milk or another plant-based milk.
Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with adding different flavors to your stroganoff, such as a splash of white wine or a pinch of nutmeg, to add a unique twist to your dish. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can also enhance the flavor and add a touch of freshness.
DIY Cashew Cream: If canned coconut milk is expensive, consider making your own cashew cream by blending soaked cashews with water. This can be more cost-effective and allows you to control the flavor and consistency. Store homemade cashew cream in the refrigerator and use within a few days.
Learning and Sharing: Join online vegan cooking communities for more recipe ideas and tips. Sharing your own experiences can also help others and foster a sense of community. You can exchange recipes, cooking techniques, and meal prep tips with other home cooks, making the culinary journey more enjoyable and enriching.
Creative Presentations: Enhance the visual appeal of your stroganoff by garnishing with fresh parsley, a drizzle of cashew cream, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. These additions not only add flavor but also make the dish more appealing and enjoyable to eat.

Let’s Learn About Mushrooms

Mushrooms come in a wide variety of species, with each bringing its own unique flavor and texture to the table. Varieties like button, cremini, shiitake, and portobello are popular choices in cooking due to their meaty texture and savory, umami flavor. Mushrooms are grown in controlled environments, often using composted organic material. While they are generally not sprayed with pesticides as much as other crops, it's always a good idea to choose organic mushrooms when possible. When shopping, look for firm, fresh mushrooms with no dark spots or slimy textures, which indicate they may be past their prime.