Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff: A Creamy Plant-Based Comfort Classic

Introduction

Discover the ultimate plant-based comfort food that transforms traditional stroganoff into a delightful vegan masterpiece. This creamy, rich mushroom stroganoff delivers all the satisfying flavors of the classic dish while remaining completely animal-product free. Perfect for cozy dinners, weekend meals, or impressing dinner guests, this recipe proves that vegan cuisine can be both indulgent and incredibly delicious.

Ingredients

For the Stroganoff:

  • 400 g (14 oz) mixed mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 200 ml (¾ cup) plant-based cream (soy or oat)
  • 200 ml (¾ cup) vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Serving Options:

  • 400 g (14 oz) tagliatelle pasta
  • OR 400 g (2 cups) cooked rice

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Mushroom Base

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Sauté chopped onions until translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
  4. Introduce sliced mushrooms, cooking until they release moisture and lightly brown.

Creating the Flavor Profile

  1. Stir in soy sauce, tomato paste, sweet paprika, and smoked paprika.
  2. Mix thoroughly and cook for 1-2 minutes to develop deep flavors.
  3. Sprinkle flour over mushrooms, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Developing the Creamy Sauce

  1. Pour in vegetable broth and plant-based cream.
  2. Add Dijon mustard and whisk to combine.
  3. Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat.
  4. Simmer for 10-12 minutes until sauce thickens.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Preparing the Base

  1. While sauce simmers, cook tagliatelle or rice according to package instructions.
  2. Drain pasta or prepare rice.

Final Serving

  1. Pour stroganoff sauce over pasta or rice.
  2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
  3. Serve immediately while hot.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (Approximate):

  • Calories: 380-420
  • Protein: 12-15g
  • Carbohydrates: 45-50g
  • Fat: 18-22g
  • Fiber: 5-7g

Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes Servings: 4

Cooking Tips and Tricks

  • Use a mix of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, and oyster for complex flavor
  • Press excess moisture from mushrooms for better browning
  • Use a cast-iron skillet for optimal flavor development
  • Don’t rush the mushroom cooking process – slow caramelization builds depth

Variations and Substitutions

  • Gluten-free: Use cornstarch instead of flour
  • Lower-carb: Serve over zucchini noodles
  • Protein boost: Add crumbled tofu or tempeh
  • Different herbs: Swap parsley for thyme or chives
  • Spice variation: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, the stroganoff can be prepared and refrigerated for 2-3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Q2: What are the best mushrooms to use? A: Mixed mushrooms provide the most complex flavor. Cremini, shiitake, oyster, and portobello work wonderfully.

Q3: Is this recipe soy-free? A: Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.

Q4: Can I freeze vegan stroganoff? A: The sauce freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat gently, stirring frequently.

Q5: How can I make the sauce creamier? A: Add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast or blend a portion of the sauce for extra smoothness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Store sauce and base separately in refrigerator
  • Best consumed within 3 days
  • Reheat gently with additional plant-based cream
  • Separate pasta/rice from sauce to prevent sogginess

Enjoy your delectable vegan mushroom stroganoff – a plant-based twist on a classic comfort food!