Name: Lentil Mushroom Stew over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Gluten-Free
Ingredients: 1 pound yellow potatoes, peeled and quartered evenly (skin left on for texture, optional); Sea salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1-2 Tbsp olive oil (optional; for oil-free, substitute with more almond milk or vegetable broth); 2-4 Tbsp unsweetened almond milk or vegetable broth (for added moisture); 1 Tbsp water (or avocado oil or olive oil); 1/2 cup chopped shallot; 2 cups sliced cremini or button mushrooms; 1-2 Tbsp coconut aminos; Pinch of sea salt and black pepper; 2 Tbsp chopped fresh thyme (or rosemary; dried okay if fresh unavailable); 2/3 cup dry green lentils, rinsed and drained (optional soak overnight to aid digestibility); 2-3 cups vegetable broth; 1 Tbsp tomato paste (optional for additional depth); 2 Tbsp mashed potatoes (reserved from recipe, for thickening); Fresh chopped parsley; Vegan Parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 9 reviews

If you have been searching for a comforting, hearty meal that combines simplicity with robust, earthy flavors, then the Lentil Mushroom Stew over Mashed Potatoes Recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner favorite. This dish marries tender mushrooms and protein-packed lentils in a savory stew, perfectly spooned over creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes. Entirely vegan, gluten-free, and grain-free, this recipe proves that wholesome ingredients can create memorable, soul-satisfying meals without fuss. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, you’ll love how easy it is to pull together this satisfying dish packed with texture and depth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A long dark metal tray sits on a white marbled surface with a piece of light brown textured burlap cloth beneath it, showing various ingredients arranged inside. At the top right corner inside the tray, there is a small metal strainer with a red handle filled with light brown lentils. Nearby, green sprigs of thyme rest on the left side. Below the lentils, there are several brown mushrooms, some whole and some sliced to show the white inside. Slightly down, two yellow potatoes with patches of skin and shaved areas are placed along with two small reddish shallots. At the bottom right, a small white cup holds orange liquid, likely broth or sauce. Thin strips of potato peel lie scattered among these ingredients. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step to making this flavorful Lentil Mushroom Stew over Mashed Potatoes Recipe. Each component plays a distinctive role — from the velvety mashed potatoes that provide a comforting base to the mushrooms and lentils that infuse every bite with rich umami notes and satisfying protein.

Yellow potatoes (1 pound, peeled and quartered): Opt for yellow potatoes for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, perfect for mashing.
Sea salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors evenly throughout the dish.
Olive oil (1-2 Tbsp): Adds richness and helps soften shallots and mushrooms during sautéing, but you can substitute with broth for oil-free cooking.
Unsweetened almond milk or vegetable broth (2-4 Tbsp): For adding moisture and creaminess to the mashed potatoes without dairy.
Water or avocado oil (1 Tbsp): Used for sautéing the shallots initially, contributing to the stew’s flavor base.
Chopped shallot (1/2 cup): Offers a milder, sweeter onion flavor, building depth in the mushroom gravy.
Sliced cremini or button mushrooms (2 cups): Their earthy flavor and meaty texture are the heart of the stew.
Coconut aminos (1-2 Tbsp): A wonderful salty, slightly sweet seasoning that substitutes soy sauce perfectly for added umami.
Fresh thyme, chopped (2 Tbsp): Brings a fragrant herbaceous note that pairs exquisitely with both mushrooms and lentils.
Dry green lentils (2/3 cup, rinsed): Nutritious and hearty, they soak up flavors and thicken the stew naturally.
Vegetable broth (2-3 cups): The liquid base that melds all the ingredients together and keeps the stew moist and savory.
Tomato paste (1 Tbsp, optional): Adds a subtle tang and deeper richness to the gravy if desired.
Mashed potatoes (2 Tbsp): Used to thicken the stew for a luscious texture.
Fresh parsley and vegan Parmesan cheese (optional garnishes): For a fresh and cheesy touch when serving.

How to Make Lentil Mushroom Stew over Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Shallots and Mushrooms

Start by heating a large rimmed pan over medium heat. Add your oil or water to the pan, then toss in the chopped shallots. Let them soften and become fragrant as you stir occasionally for about 2 minutes. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and coconut aminos. Increase the heat to medium-high so the mushrooms release their moisture and develop a gorgeous golden color. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes until they shrink and caramelize slightly. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance those deep, savory flavors right from the start.

Step 2: Cook the Lentils

Add fresh thyme, rinsed green lentils, and 2 cups of vegetable broth to the mushroom mixture. Bring everything to a low boil over medium-high heat. Once it bubbles, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for around 20 minutes, stirring occasionally and adding more broth if necessary. You want the lentils to soften and absorb all those rich flavors while the stew thickens into a hearty gravy.

Step 3: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the stewing happens, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peeled and quartered yellow potatoes and cook them for 12 to 15 minutes until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to your pot or a bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil for richness. Mash thoroughly until creamy and fluffy. For a lighter option, swap the oil with almond milk or vegetable broth to achieve the perfect consistency.

Step 4: Thicken and Finish the Stew

Once the lentils are tender, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or coconut aminos for more depth. If you want a richer flavor, stir in tomato paste, but this is optional. Remove from heat and let the stew rest for a few minutes so the flavors can deepen. To achieve a luscious, thick texture, fold in 2 tablespoons of your freshly mashed potatoes. This helps bind everything together beautifully.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

To serve, spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate or bowl. Ladle plenty of the luscious lentil mushroom gravy on top. The contrast between the velvety potatoes and savory stew is absolutely delightful and satisfying.

How to Serve Lentil Mushroom Stew over Mashed Potatoes Recipe

A white plate holds a base layer of light yellow mashed potatoes with a soft, creamy texture, unevenly spread across the plate. On top, a thick layer of brown lentils mixed with small slices of mushrooms creates a chunky, glossy texture. The lentils and mushrooms are coated in a rich brown sauce that slightly spills onto the mashed potatoes. Fresh green herbs are sprinkled over the lentils and around the plate, adding small pops of color. A silver fork rests on the right side of the plate, its prongs touching the edge of the mashed potatoes. The plate is placed on a white marbled textured surface with more scattered green herb leaves around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can take this dish from comforting to restaurant-quality. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and brightness. Vegan Parmesan cheese lends a salty, nutty edge that complements the earthiness of the mushrooms beautifully. A final flourish of fresh thyme sprigs provides an aromatic finish that’s hard to resist.

Side Dishes

This Lentil Mushroom Stew over Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a hearty meal on its own, but you can easily round it out with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables for added texture diversity. Sautéed greens like spinach or kale also complement the stew’s earthiness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a farm-to-table vibe, serve the stew in rustic individual bowls, layering the mashed potatoes first and then topping with the stew. Garnishing with edible flowers or microgreens can elevate the presentation for special occasions. You might also try plating it as a deconstructed dish for a modern twist, serving the mashed potatoes molded into a neat round shape with the stew spooned over the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, no worries! Store the mashed potatoes and lentil mushroom stew separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This separation keeps the textures intact and helps maintain freshness for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to ensure the flavors stay vibrant and the mashed potatoes maintain their creamy consistency.

Freezing

This Lentil Mushroom Stew over Mashed Potatoes Recipe freezes wonderfully. Place the mash and stew in freezer-safe containers separately and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This is perfect for busy days or meal prepping in advance.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the stew gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally so it heats through evenly without sticking. For mashed potatoes, heat them in a microwave or oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, stirring and adding a splash of almond milk or broth if they seem dry. Combining the two just before serving ensures the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other types of lentils in this recipe?

While green lentils work best for their texture in this stew, you can substitute with brown lentils if needed. Red lentils cook faster and tend to break down more, which might result in a softer texture rather than the hearty bite this recipe aims for.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Absolutely! All ingredients in the Lentil Mushroom Stew over Mashed Potatoes Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

How can I make this dish oil-free?

You can easily omit the olive oil and use vegetable broth or water for sautéing and mashing. This swap will still deliver delicious results without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Can this stew be made in advance?

Yes! The lentil mushroom stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld and deepen. Just store the components separately and reheat when ready to eat for a quick and satisfying meal.

What can I use instead of coconut aminos?

If you don’t have coconut aminos, tamari or soy sauce are good alternatives. Just adjust the quantity to taste to maintain the right level of saltiness and umami in the stew.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the comfort and nourishment packed into the Lentil Mushroom Stew over Mashed Potatoes Recipe. Its blend of simple, wholesome ingredients creates a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you are following a plant-based lifestyle or just craving a meal that feeds your body and soul, this recipe offers cozy warmth and satisfying textures in every bite. So go ahead, dive in, and enjoy the wonderful flavors and heartfelt comfort this dish has to offer.