Revisit a comforting classic sans the dairy and meat with Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff, combining mushrooms’ rich umami flavor with a silky, plant-based sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners, this stroganoff boasts tender mushroom slices in a savory gravy, served over noodles or rice. Follow this guide—from selecting mushrooms to blending a creamy non-dairy sauce—for a dish that captures the essence of stroganoff while adhering to vegan principles.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes/Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Mushrooms (cremini or portobello) | ~1 lb, sliced | Varied types (shiitake, oyster) add complexity |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | Adds sweetness |
| Garlic (minced) | 2–3 cloves | Aromatic foundation |
| Vegetable broth | 2 cups | Low-sodium recommended |
| Non-dairy milk (oat, soy, cashew) | 1/2 cup | Or use full-fat coconut milk for richer texture |
| Flour or cornstarch | 2 tablespoons | For thickening sauce |
| Soy sauce or tamari | 1 tablespoon | Adds umami depth |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | Traditional stroganoff flavor |
| Nutritional yeast (optional) | 1 tablespoon | Adds cheesy, savory note |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Season the sauce |
| Olive oil or vegan butter | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing |
| Optional: Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon | Mild or smoky, preference |
| Optional: Vegan sour cream | 1/2 cup | Stir in at end for extra creaminess |
Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms and Onions
Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms and Onions- Heat Oil:
- In a wide pan or skillet, warm olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Mushrooms:
- Add sliced mushrooms in a single layer if possible. Cook ~5–7 minutes, letting them release moisture and brown slightly.
- Add Onions and Garlic:
- Stir in chopped onion; sauté until translucent (~3 minutes). Add garlic last to prevent burning (~1 minute).
Step 3: Create the Stroganoff Base
- Season and Add Flour (or Cornstarch):
-
- Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture, stirring to coat. (If using cornstarch, dissolve in cold water first, then add.)
- Deglaze with Broth:
- Pour in vegetable broth, stirring to lift any browned bits from the pan.
- Stir in soy sauce/tamari, Dijon mustard, optional paprika, and nutritional yeast if using.
- Simmer:
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- Lower heat. Let the sauce bubble gently for ~5 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
Step 4: Make It Creamy (the Vegan Way)
- Add Non-Dairy Milk:
-
- Stir in 1/2 cup non-dairy milk. For added richness, use full-fat coconut milk or a creamy soy-based alternative.
- Adjust Consistency:
- If too thick, add more broth or milk. If too thin, simmer uncovered until desired thickness.
- Optional Vegan Sour Cream:
-
- For an even more luscious sauce, swirl in vegan sour cream at the end, off the heat.
Step 5: Season and Serve
- Taste Test:
- Add salt, pepper, or extra soy sauce to fine-tune flavor. The sauce should be savory and lightly tangy.
- Serve Over Carbs:
- Traditionally, stroganoff pairs with wide noodles or mashed potatoes. Rice or cauliflower mash also works.
- Garnish:
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives brightens the final presentation.
Step 6: Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
Step 6: Troubleshooting & Pro Tips- Watery Sauce:
- Increase thickener (flour or cornstarch slurry) or simmer uncovered longer.
- Weak Flavor:
- Add more soy sauce, mustard, or nutritional yeast. Mushrooms vary in potency.
- Avoid Mushroom Overcrowding:
- Cook in batches if needed so they brown instead of steam.
Step 7: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use a gluten-free thickener?
A1: Yes—cornstarch or arrowroot powder can replace flour, making the dish gluten-free.
Q2: How long does it keep?
A2: Refrigerate in airtight containers for 2–3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Q3: Is there a way to add protein?
A3: Stir in cooked lentils, chickpeas, or vegan sausage crumbles for extra protein.
Conclusion
Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff delivers a creamy, hearty bowl of comfort without relying on dairy or meat. By browning mushrooms for umami depth, creating a thick sauce with broth and non-dairy milk, and seasoning with soy sauce, mustard, and spices, you’ll craft a satisfying take on a beloved classic. Serve over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, and relish every velvety, plant-based bite.
