Vegan Creamy Mushroom Stroganoff

Introduction

Vegan Creamy Mushroom Stroganoff is a rich, comforting dish that brings the classic flavors of the traditional Russian stroganoff into a plant-based version. Packed with umami from mushrooms and a velvety sauce, this recipe is perfect for cozy dinners, family meals, or even meal prepping for the week. It’s a satisfying, hearty dish that doesn’t rely on dairy or meat, yet delivers all the depth and warmth you’d expect from a classic comfort food.

The History

Stroganoff is a Russian dish traditionally made with sautéed pieces of beef served in a sour cream sauce. Named after the Stroganov family in the 19th century, it became popular across Europe and eventually around the world. Over time, variations have emerged, and with the rise of veganism, chefs and home cooks alike have adapted the dish using plant-based ingredients. This vegan version pays homage to the original while embracing cruelty-free and sustainable ingredients that make it accessible to a broader audience.

Ingredients Breakdown

This vegan stroganoff recipe is centered around mushrooms as the main protein-rich ingredient. The sauce gets its creaminess from a combination of full-fat coconut milk and nutritional yeast, while Dijon mustard and lemon juice add brightness and balance. Aromatics like onions and garlic provide the base flavor, and a touch of tamari or soy sauce enhances the umami. Optional ingredients like smoked paprika or liquid smoke can add a subtle meaty note to the dish, making it even more reminiscent of the original version.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
2. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sauté until softened and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown (about 8–10 minutes).
4. Stir in smoked paprika, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
5. Pour in vegetable broth and tamari, simmer for 5 minutes to deepen the flavors.
6. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a splash of cold water to create a slurry, then stir into the pan.
7. Add full-fat coconut milk and nutritional yeast, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
8. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for tanginess.
9. Serve over cooked eggless noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Tips

• To enhance the “meaty” flavor of the mushrooms, try adding a splash of liquid smoke or a teaspoon of soy sauce.
• For a richer sauce, blend a portion of the mushrooms before adding the coconut milk to create a smoother texture.
• Use a variety of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, and oyster for a more complex flavor profile.
• If you don’t have coconut milk, you can substitute it with cashew cream or a vegan sour cream alternative.
• Cook your noodles or rice separately and keep them warm while preparing the stroganoff to ensure everything is ready at once.

Variations and Customizations

• Protein Boost: Add cooked lentils, chickpeas, or vegan ground meat for extra protein.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat lovers.
• Greens Addition: Toss in spinach or kale at the end of cooking for added nutrients.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and serve over gluten-free pasta or quinoa.
• Creamier Version: Blend ½ cup of raw cashews with a little water and stir into the sauce for extra richness.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

Vegan Creamy Mushroom Stroganoff is a nutrient-dense dish that provides a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Mushrooms are low in calories and high in B-vitamins, selenium, and antioxidants. Coconut milk adds healthy fats, while nutritional yeast contributes a cheesy flavor along with B12 (if fortified). This dish is naturally dairy-free, cholesterol-free, and can be made gluten-free with the right substitutions. It’s a great option for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet, and it supports heart health and digestion due to its fiber and nutrient content.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 400g (14 oz) mixed mushrooms, sliced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water
• ½ cup full-fat coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Cooked noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, for serving

Directions

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 8–10 minutes until they begin to brown and release their moisture.
4. Stir in smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to infuse the flavors.
5. Pour in vegetable broth and tamari, then bring to a gentle simmer. Let cook for 5 minutes.
6. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water to form a slurry. Add to the pan and stir well.
7. Add coconut milk and nutritional yeast, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy (about 3–4 minutes).
8. Finish with Dijon mustard and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve hot over your favorite noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

FAQ

• Can I make this recipe oil-free? Yes! You can sauté the onions and garlic in a splash of vegetable broth or water instead of oil.
• How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
• Can I freeze Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff? Yes, it freezes well for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
• Is this dish gluten-free? It can be! Use tamari instead of soy sauce and serve with gluten-free noodles or grains.
• What can I use instead of coconut milk? Cashew cream, vegan sour cream, or oat cream can be used for a similar creamy texture.

Summary

Vegan Creamy Mushroom Stroganoff is a rich, flavorful dish that offers the comfort of traditional stroganoff without dairy or meat. It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with plant-based nutrition.