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 mushrooms, sliced (cremini and shiitake recommended); 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup coconut milk; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love this Creamy Mushroom White Bean Stew for its rich, velvety texture and hearty flavors. The combination of earthy mushrooms and creamy white beans creates a delightful dish that warms the soul. I often find that a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the stew perfectly. This recipe is not only easy to whip up but also great for meal prep. Whether enjoyed solo or with a crusty bread side, it never disappoints!

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:22:19.751Z

Making this Creamy Mushroom White Bean Stew has become a staple in my kitchen. I experimented with different mushrooms, and I found that a mix of cremini and shiitake adds fantastic depth. By sautéing the onions and garlic first, I make sure their flavors are vibrant, which sets the perfect base for the creamy broth. It always surprises my friends when I tell them how simple it is to create this seemingly gourmet dish.

Another tip I've learned is to let the stew sit for a few minutes before serving. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I often garnish it with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an added touch. It’s a comforting dish that reminds me of cozy evenings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling while still being light on the stomach.
The creamy texture is achieved without any heavy cream.
Packed with nutrient-dense ingredients perfect for healthy eating.

      

The Heart of the Stew

This Creamy Mushroom White Bean Stew is built around the incredible umami flavors of mushrooms, particularly cremini and shiitake. These mushrooms not only add depth but also a meaty texture that makes the dish satisfying. When sautéed, they release moisture, which contributes to the stew's overall creaminess. It's essential to cook them until they're tender and have released their juices, typically around 8 minutes, to achieve this fully integrated flavor profile.

The white beans serve a dual purpose: they enhance the stew's heartiness and provide creaminess without the addition of dairy. Their subtle taste allows the earthy notes of the mushrooms and aromatic elements like thyme and garlic to shine. Using canned beans ensures a quick prep time, but if you prefer, you can use dried beans. Just remember to soak and precook them until tender to ensure they meld properly into the stew.

Enhancing Flavor and Texture

Adding coconut milk not only brings a rich and creamy texture to the stew, it introduces a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements beautifully. Be sure to use full-fat coconut milk for the best results; it adds body and richness that ties all the flavors together. It's important to stir the coconut milk in gradually, allowing it to heat evenly without curdling, which can happen if it's added too quickly or to a pot that’s too hot.

The finishing touch, a splash of lemon juice, is crucial for brightening the dish. This acidity cuts through the creaminess and enhances the earthy flavors. I recommend adding it right before serving, as the warmth of the stew will activate its zestiness without overpowering the other flavors. Don't skip this step; it transforms the stew from comforting to extraordinary!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious stew.

For the Stew

2 cups mushrooms, sliced (cremini and shiitake recommended)
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup vegetable broth
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup coconut milk
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your stew.

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Cook the Mushrooms

Add sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for about 8 minutes until they’ve released their juices and are tender. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the white beans, vegetable broth, and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Finish and Serve

Add lemon juice and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For extra creaminess, blend a portion of the stew and mix it back in. This will give a beautifully smooth texture while keeping some chunks of beans and mushrooms for added interest.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This stew is an excellent candidate for meal prep; it stores well in the fridge for up to five days. If you make a bigger batch, you can even freeze it in portions. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.

If you prefer to make it fresh daily, consider chopping the vegetables and herbs ahead of time. Prepping your ingredients in advance can help streamline the cooking process, making dinner time more manageable. Just remember to store cut veggies in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent oxidation.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to customize the stew with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. For a pop of color and nutrition, add chopped kale or spinach towards the end of cooking. They’ll wilt beautifully without losing their vibrant color or nutritional value. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or oregano, if you want to switch up the flavor profile a bit.

For added protein, consider incorporating cooked quinoa or diced tofu, making this stew even more filling. You may need to adjust the liquid if you do this, as these ingredients can absorb some of the broth. Just keep an eye on the consistency while simmering, and add extra vegetable broth as needed to maintain the perfect stew-like texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?

Yes, just make sure to pre-soak and cook them until tender before adding them to the stew.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Absolutely! This stew freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.

→ Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad.