As I flipped through my favorite cookbook one chilly evening, I stumbled upon a recipe that seemed to whisper promises of warmth and comfort: Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon. This dish brings a delightful vegan twist to a beloved classic, making it perfect for those of us seeking hearty, satisfying meals without the meat. Rich in umami flavor and dressed in a velvety sauce, it’s the ultimate comfort food to share on a romantic night in or simply to savor on a quiet evening at home. Plus, its flexibility with ingredient substitutions means you can adapt it to what you have on hand, making it both practical and exciting. Are you ready to create a cozy masterpiece that will please not just your taste buds but your heart as well? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together! Why is Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon a Must-Try? Comforting Warmth: This hearty dish brings an unbeatable combination of flavors to your table, perfect for chilly evenings. Flavor Explosion: Packed with umami-rich mushrooms and aromatic herbs, every bite is a journey through deep, savory notes. Versatile Ingredients: Discover the freedom to swap ingredients based on your pantry, whether it’s using different mushrooms or flavorful side dishes like mashed potatoes or even spinach mushroom pasta. Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time, allowing you to focus on cozying up with loved ones. Impressive Presentation: Serve it in a beautiful dish to create an elegant meal that looks just as good as it tastes, perfect for a romantic night in or a gathering with friends. Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon Ingredients For the Mushroom Base • Dried Porcini Mushrooms – Adds intense flavor and umami depth; substitute with any dried mushrooms available if necessary. • Cremini Mushrooms – Fresh mushrooms that enhance the dish’s texture and taste; use button mushrooms if cremini aren’t on hand. • Garlic Cloves – Infuses aroma and depth of flavor; for convenience, garlic powder can be used, though fresh is preferred. For the Vegetables • Yellow Onion – Provides sweetness and base flavor; red onion can be substituted for a slightly sharper taste. • Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and texture; any color of carrots can be utilized for variety. • Red Bell Pepper – Contributes sweetness and color; swap with green bell peppers for a different flavor profile. For the Cooking Fat • Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Used for sautéing vegetables; can be swapped with avocado oil or your preferred cooking oil. • Vegan Butter – For a creamy finish; substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option. For Seasoning and Thickness • Flour – Helps to thicken the sauce; consider using all-purpose or gluten-free flour like garbanzo bean flour. • Dried Thyme & Oregano – These herbs add flavor; fresh herbs can be used, increasing the amounts to three times for fresh equivalents. For the Sauce • Tomato Paste – Adds richness and color; can be replaced with crushed tomatoes but reduce the liquid elsewhere. • Full-Bodied Red Wine – Enhances richness and depth; for a non-alcoholic version, mix vegetable broth with pomegranate juice. • Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste; adjust based on your preference. For Serving • Mashed Potatoes or Pasta – Pairs beautifully with the bourguignon; explore alternatives like polenta or rice for variety. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon Step 1: Rehydrate the Dried Mushrooms Begin by placing the dried porcini mushrooms in a bowl and covering them with 1 cup of hot water. Allow them to soak for about 20 minutes until they are plump and tender. Once rehydrated, carefully remove the mushrooms, ensuring no sand or grit is included, and retain the soaking liquid for later use in the Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon. Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion, diced carrots, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for approximately 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the bell pepper begins to soften. This step sets the base flavor for your comforting Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon. Step 3: Add Fresh Mushrooms and Garlic Now, add the sliced cremini mushrooms and minced garlic to the pot, stirring well to combine. Continue to cook for 7 to 10 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to release their liquid and turn golden brown. This step infuses your dish with rich, deep flavors that are essential for a hearty Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon. Step 4: Incorporate Porcini and Tomato Paste Chop the rehydrated porcini mushrooms and add them to the pot along with 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Stir everything together and cook for another 3 minutes, ensuring the tomato paste becomes fragrant and well integrated into the mix. This adds a layer of richness to your Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon. Step 5: Deglaze with Wine and Mushroom Liquid Pour in 1 cup of full-bodied red wine and the reserved mushroom soaking liquid to deglaze the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, scraping any browned bits off the bottom, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This process will concentrate the flavors, enriching your Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon perfectly. Step 6: Thicken the Sauce In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of vegan butter with 2 tablespoons of flour to create a crumbly texture. Gradually add this mixture to the simmering pot while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. This will give your Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon a luxurious, velvety consistency that is absolutely delightful. Step 7: Final Seasoning and Serve Taste the Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Once seasoned to your liking, serve the dish warm over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped chives for a pop of color and an added layer of flavor. Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon Variations & Substitutions Ready to explore exciting twists on your Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon? Let’s dive into ways to customize this dish to suit your taste! Mushroom Medley: Use a blend of different dried mushrooms for a deeper umami flavor. Shiitake, maitake, or chanterelles can elevate your dish. Gluten-Free Options: Substitute standard flour with gluten-free alternatives like cornstarch or almond flour to thicken the sauce without gluten. Hearty Protein Boost: Stir in some cooked lentils or chickpeas to amp up the heartiness and protein content of your meal. It’ll make the dish even more satisfying. Creamy Spin: Instead of vegan butter, you can use cashew cream for a wonderfully rich and creamy texture. Blend soaked cashews with a bit of water for an irresistible sauce. Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat. Spice lovers will appreciate this lively addition to the dish! Flavorful Base: For a unique twist, start with a base of leeks instead of onions. They’ll offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the mushrooms. Savory Herbs: Mix in fresh rosemary or sage alongside thyme for a new depth of flavor. Both herbs lend a warm, aromatic quality that enhances the coziness of the meal. Different Sides: Serve your bourguignon with fluffy quinoa or creamy polenta instead of the traditional mashed potatoes or pasta. This adds a delightful touch while keeping it gluten-free. No matter how you decide to personalize your Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon, this dish remains a heartwarming staple. If you’re inspired to try more mushroom-inflected dishes, check out my recipes for Garlic Cauliflower Mushroom Skillet or Salisbury Steak for innovative flavor fusions! Expert Tips for Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon Mushroom Quality: Use high-quality dried porcini mushrooms to maximize umami flavor. Avoid any gritty remnants by rinsing them before adding to your pot. Ingredient Flexibility: Don’t hesitate to substitute with what you have on hand. Different dried mushrooms can add unique flavors, so feel free to get creative! Wine Selection: The choice of wine can impact the dish’s flavor significantly. Opt for a robust red wine while avoiding overly sweet varieties for the best results in your Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon. Thickening Technique: Ensure your vegan butter and flour mixture is well-combined to avoid a gritty sauce. Gradually add it to the pot while stirring continuously for a beautifully smooth texture. Flavor Development: For deeper flavors, allow your Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon to simmer a bit longer. Taste and adjust seasoning to achieve perfection before serving; each ingredient can shine through beautifully when given time. How to Store and Freeze Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cool before sealing to preserve freshness. Freezer: You can freeze the Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion when frozen. Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if needed to maintain its creamy texture. Avoid Freezing with Sides: If you plan to serve it with mashed potatoes or pasta, store those separately. This will keep the sides fresh and prevent mushiness. Make Ahead Options These Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon ingredients are ideal for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze! You can rehydrate the dried porcini mushrooms and sauté the onion, carrots, and bell peppers up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the fresh mushrooms, garlic, and remaining ingredients to finish the dish. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to refrigerate everything promptly to maintain quality. With a little planning, you’ll have a rich, hearty Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon ready to enjoy with minimal effort! What to Serve with Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the rich flavors of this comforting dish. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture creates a perfect canvas for the savory bourguignon sauce, soaking up every delicious drop. Crusty Bread: Ideal for dipping, its crunchy crust and soft center make it a perfect companion to savor alongside the steamy bourguignon. Garlic Green Beans: Crisp and fresh, they add a burst of color and a contrasting crunch that brightens every bite of the meal. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with tangy vinaigrette refreshes the palette, balancing the richness of the Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon beautifully. Steamed Broccoli: This nutritious side offers a satisfying crunch and vibrant color, rounding out the meal while keeping it wholesome. Rich Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red enhances the depths of flavor in the dish, mirroring the wine used in the bourguignon itself. Herb-Infused Rice: The fluffy texture of rice infused with fresh herbs provides a lovely base that complements the hearty sauce effortlessly. Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a smooth and decadent dessert that offers a delightful contrast to your savory meal. Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon Recipe FAQs How do I select and store mushrooms for Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon? Choosing the right mushrooms is key! Look for dried porcini mushrooms that are plump and firm, avoiding any that are brittle or have dark spots. Fresh cremini mushrooms should feel firm to touch, and their caps should be closed. Store dried mushrooms in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, while fresh mushrooms should be kept in the refrigerator and used within a week for the best flavor. What are the best storage methods for leftover Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon? Absolutely! To store leftovers, let your Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if it has thickened too much. Can I freeze Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon, and how? Yes, you can freeze your dish! Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top since the sauce will expand when frozen. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove. Stir in a bit of broth to revive the texture. What should I do if my sauce doesn’t thicken properly? If your sauce isn’t thickening, don’t worry! You can create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the simmering bourguignon, stirring continuously until it reaches your desired thickness. This method is not only simple but also effective! Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies? This Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon is a fantastic option for plant-based diets, but it’s worth noting that some of your furry friends, especially dogs, should avoid certain ingredients like mushrooms, garlic, and onions. Always double-check ingredient lists if serving alongside any other dishes or side items that might contain allergens. Can I adjust the recipe for gluten-free diets? Very much so! To make your Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon gluten-free, simply replace regular flour with gluten-free options like garbanzo bean flour or cornstarch. Make sure to check the labels on other ingredients like vegetable broth and tomato paste, as some processed items may contain gluten. Enjoy your hearty meal worry-free! Hearty Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon for Cozy Nights In Discover the comforting flavors of Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon, a delicious and hearty twist on a classic dish perfect for cozy nights in. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: VeganCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Mushroom Base1 cup Dried Porcini Mushrooms Substitute with any dried mushrooms available if necessary.8 ounces Cremini Mushrooms Use button mushrooms if cremini aren't on hand.4 cloves Garlic Cloves Fresh is preferred; garlic powder can be used.For the Vegetables1 medium Yellow Onion Red onion can be substituted.2 medium Carrots Any color of carrots can be used.1 medium Red Bell Pepper Swap with green bell pepper for a different flavor.For the Cooking Fat2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can be swapped with avocado oil or preferred cooking oil.2 tablespoons Vegan Butter Substitute with margarine or coconut oil if needed.For Seasoning and Thickness2 tablespoons Flour All-purpose or gluten-free flour can be used.1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Fresh herbs can be used, increasing the amount.1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Fresh herbs can be used, increasing the amount.For the Sauce2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Can be replaced with crushed tomatoes.1 cup Full-Bodied Red Wine For non-alcoholic version, mix vegetable broth with pomegranate juice.to taste Salt Adjust based on your preference.to taste Pepper Adjust based on your preference.For ServingMashed Potatoes or Pasta Alternatively, use polenta or rice. Equipment Large Pot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsRehydrate the dried porcini mushrooms by soaking them in 1 cup of hot water for about 20 minutes. Retain the soaking liquid for later use.In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and sauté chopped yellow onion, diced carrots, and diced red bell pepper for about 3 minutes.Add sliced cremini mushrooms and minced garlic to the pot, cooking for 7 to 10 minutes until golden brown.Chop rehydrated porcini mushrooms and add them along with 2 tablespoons of tomato paste; cook for another 3 minutes.Deglaze the pot with 1 cup of red wine and the reserved mushroom soaking liquid. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.Mix 2 tablespoons of vegan butter with 2 tablespoons of flour, then gradually add to the pot while stirring to thicken the sauce.Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm over mashed potatoes or pasta, garnished with chopped chives. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 7gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg NotesEnsure to rinse dried mushrooms before adding to the pot for best flavor. Feel free to substitute ingredients as necessary. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
