Cozy Mushroom Stew with Root Veggies and Herbs is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for cold days and quiet evenings. Made with tender mushrooms, earthy root vegetables, and fragrant herbs simmered in a rich, savory broth, this stew delivers deep flavor without meat.
This recipe is ideal when you’re craving something warm, nourishing, and satisfying. Naturally vegetarian and easy to adapt for vegan diets, this mushroom stew feels rustic, wholesome, and incredibly cozy—exactly the kind of meal you want to curl up with on chilly nights.
Why You’ll Love This Cozy Mushroom Stew with Root Veggies and Herbs
- Rich, earthy, and deeply comforting
- Loaded with vegetables and herbs
- Naturally vegetarian and easy to make vegan
- Perfect for cozy nights and cold weather
- One-pot, fuss-free meal
- Great for leftovers and meal prep
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you love hearty stews but want a meatless option that doesn’t feel light or boring, this recipe is for you. Mushrooms add a meaty texture, while root vegetables and herbs create a satisfying depth of flavor. It’s simple, nourishing, and incredibly comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 oz mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 parsnips or potatoes, chopped
- 1 small turnip or sweet potato, diced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
How to Make Cozy Mushroom Stew with Root Veggies and Herbs
Step 1 — Sauté the Base
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2 — Cook the Mushrooms
Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 6–8 minutes.
Step 3 — Add Vegetables and Tomato Paste
Stir in carrots, parsnips, and other root vegetables. Add tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Step 4 — Add Herbs and Broth
Pour in vegetable broth and add thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Step 5 — Simmer
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–35 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
Step 6 — Thicken (Optional)
If desired, stir in a flour slurry (1 tablespoon flour mixed with water) and simmer a few minutes until thickened.
Step 7 — Serve
Remove bay leaf and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 7g
- Fiber: 8g
Values may vary depending on vegetables used.
Tips for the Best Cozy Mushroom Stew with Root Veggies and Herbs
- Let mushrooms brown for deeper flavor
- Cut vegetables evenly for even cooking
- Simmer slowly for best taste
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the end
- Let stew rest 10 minutes before serving
Variations & Substitutions
- Add lentils or chickpeas for protein
- Use red wine for extra depth
- Add pearl onions for sweetness
- Make it creamy with coconut milk
- Add kale or spinach at the end
What to Serve with Cozy Mushroom Stew with Root Veggies and Herbs
- Crusty bread
- Mashed potatoes
- Rice or quinoa
- Simple green salad
- Garlic toast
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Crowding the mushrooms
- Skipping browning step
- Overcooking vegetables
- Under-seasoning
- Forgetting to remove bay leaf
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
- Reheat gently on the stovetop
- Freeze for up to 3 months
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator
Conclusion
Cozy Mushroom Stew with Root Veggies and Herbs is the ultimate plant-based comfort food. Hearty, nourishing, and full of rich, earthy flavor, it’s a perfect one-pot meal for cozy nights, meal prep, or anytime you need a warm bowl of comfort.
General Information
- Course: Main Dish / Stew
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
- Difficulty: Easy
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this stew vegan?
Yes, when made with vegetable broth and olive oil.
Can I freeze mushroom stew?
Yes, it freezes very well for up to 3 months.
What mushrooms work best?
Cremini, button, or a mix with portobello.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, skip the flour or use cornstarch.
Does it taste better the next day?
Yes, flavors deepen overnight.