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 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 16 oz mushrooms, sliced; 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup kale, chopped; 1/2 cup coconut milk

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love the comforting and rich flavors of this Creamy Mushroom White Bean Stew. Whenever I make it, I feel like a warm hug is wrapping around me. The combination of earthy mushrooms and creamy white beans creates a luscious texture that is both satisfying and nutritious. It’s the perfect dish for a chilly evening or when I need a quick, nourishing meal. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up with ingredients I often have on hand. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:04:21.071Z

When I first discovered this recipe, I was intrigued by the idea of using white beans as a base for a stew. It turned out to be a game changer! The creamy texture of the beans adds a unique richness that beautifully complements the mushrooms. I learned to sauté the mushrooms first, which helps to intensify their flavor before adding the beans.

One specific tip I always follow is to let the stew simmer for a bit longer. This not only deepens the flavors but allows all the ingredients to meld together perfectly. Trust me, you won’t want to rush the simmering time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and earthy flavors that warm the soul
Creamy texture without using cream
Packed with protein and fiber for a nutritious meal

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Creamy Mushroom White Bean Stew plays a vital role in achieving the ultimate flavor and texture. The earthy mushrooms not only provide depth but also absorb flavors beautifully, making them the star of the dish. I prefer to use a mix of wild mushrooms like cremini and shiitake for a more complex flavor profile, but you can easily substitute with button mushrooms if they're what you have on hand.

The white beans contribute creaminess and a hearty texture while also packing a protein punch. You can use any white beans you enjoy, such as cannellini or great northern beans. If you're looking to add more variety, feel free to mix in some chickpeas for extra fiber and a slightly different taste.

Cooking Techniques to Consider

To ensure the best flavor in your stew, don't rush the sautéing process. Cooking the onion and garlic until they turn fragrant and translucent allows their natural sweetness to develop, which sets a solid foundation for the dish. Pay attention to the mushrooms; sauté them until they're nicely browned and have released their moisture, which can take about 7 minutes. If you find they’re steaming instead of browning, increase the heat slightly.

When it comes to simmering the stew, keep it at a gentle boil before reducing it to a simmer. This process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The longer you let it simmer, the richer the flavor will be, so don’t hesitate to let it go for the full 20 minutes if you have the time!

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
16 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup kale, chopped
1/2 cup coconut milk

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the Mushrooms

Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 7 minutes until they are browned and have released their moisture.

Combine Ingredients

Add the white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Simmer the Stew

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Finish with Kale and Coconut Milk

Stir in the chopped kale and coconut milk, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the kale is tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting stew!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions. It adds a lovely warmth to the stew without overwhelming the dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This stew is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance, and the flavors will only improve as it sits. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture.

When you're ready to enjoy the stew, simply reheat it in a pot on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if it has thickened too much. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this Creamy Mushroom White Bean Stew is delicious on its own, consider serving it with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh salad to balance the meal. You can also top it with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for an extra flavor boost and a nutritional kick.

Feel free to get creative with variations! You can add diced carrots or celery for extra vegetables, or even toss in some cooked grains like quinoa or brown rice for added texture and nutrition. A squeeze of lemon juice after cooking can brighten the flavors, so give it a try!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stew keeps well in the fridge for up to three days and can be frozen for later enjoyment.

→ What can I use instead of white beans?

You can substitute with cannellini beans or even chickpeas for a different flavor and texture.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegan and uses coconut milk for creaminess.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add carrots, bell peppers, or any seasonal vegetables you enjoy.