Slow Cooker Beef and Mushroom Stew (vegan)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Slow Cooker Beef and Mushroom Stew
Slow Cooker Vegan Beef and Mushroom Stew is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food, offering all the rich flavors without the meat. This dish features a medley of hearty mushrooms, tender vegetables, and a savory broth that simulates the depth of traditional beef stew. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully over several hours, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
Historically, stews have been a staple in many cultures, often made with whatever ingredients were on hand. The slow cooking method allows for tough cuts of meat to become tender, but in this vegan version, we harness the umami of mushrooms and the heartiness of root vegetables to create a dish that’s just as comforting. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies without anyone noticing—just don’t tell the kids!
As the stew simmers, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to the table. Serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice, and you’ll have a meal that warms both the body and soul. And if anyone asks where the beef is, just smile and say it’s on a plant-based diet now. After all, even vegetables deserve a chance to shine!
This vegan stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome family dinner. With a blend of spices and the natural sweetness of carrots and potatoes, this dish is sure to please even the most devoted meat lovers. So grab your slow cooker and let’s get started on this comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 16 oz baby bella mushrooms, sliced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 whole bay leaves
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Slice 16 ounces of baby bella mushrooms, dice 3 medium carrots, 2 stalks of celery, and 1 medium yellow onion. Mince 4 cloves of garlic and dice 2 medium potatoes. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent. This step builds a flavor base for your stew.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet, cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Stir occasionally until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender. This will enhance the umami flavor of your stew.
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the diced potatoes, 4 cups of vegetable broth, 1 cup of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 2 bay leaves. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
- Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of black pepper. This will add a nice kick to the stew. If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Allow the stew to cook for 8 hours, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. The long cooking time is key to achieving that deep, comforting flavor.
- About 30 minutes before serving, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. This will help thicken the stew without altering its flavor.
- Stir the cornstarch slurry into the stew and cover again. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes on low heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the stew has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Once done, remove the bay leaves and give the stew a good stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A little extra soy sauce or a pinch of salt can elevate the flavors.
- Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Pair it with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal. Enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors of this vegan delight!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 250
- Carbs g: 40
- Protein g: 8
- Fat g: 7
- Sugar g: 4
