A Cozy Evening with Rich Vegan Mushroom Goulash
There’s something magical about a cozy evening at home, the kind that calls for warm, hearty meals that make you feel wrapped in a big culinary hug. Our rich vegan mushroom goulash fits the bill perfectly! Packed with savory flavors, tender mushrooms, and a touch of red wine, it’s the ultimate comfort food for chilly days.
We remember the first time we tried this recipe. It was one of those evenings when you want to cook something special but still easy enough to whip up without fuss. After one bite, we knew this dish was going to be a staple in our home.
Fun Fact: Goulash Goes Way Back!
Did you know goulash originated in Hungary and was traditionally made by herdsmen? This vegan version keeps the spirit of comfort alive while embracing plant-based goodness.
Why Mushrooms Are the Star
The beauty of this dish lies in the mushrooms. They’re hearty, meaty (without the meat, of course!), and soak up the rich flavors of the paprika-infused sauce. We love using a mix of cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms for a variety of textures. Plus, mushrooms are little nutrition powerhouses – full of antioxidants, vitamins, and that umami punch we all crave.
One tip we’ve learned along the way: don’t skimp on the sautéing step! Giving the mushrooms time to brown ensures they develop their full, rich flavor.
Red Wine: The Secret Ingredient
Adding a splash of red wine gives the sauce depth and a slightly tangy, luxurious touch. Don’t worry if you’re not a wine connoisseur – just pick something you’d enjoy sipping alongside your meal.
Mashed Potatoes: The Perfect Partner
Now, let’s talk about the mashed potatoes. Creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-satisfying, they’re the ideal base for soaking up all that delicious goulash sauce. We like to make ours extra special with a splash of oat milk and a dollop of vegan butter.
There’s something so satisfying about scooping up a forkful of buttery mashed potatoes topped with rich goulash. It’s pure comfort food magic.
Pro Tip: Boost the Nutrition
For a healthier twist, you can swap half of the potatoes for cauliflower or sweet potatoes. They blend seamlessly and add a new layer of flavor.
A Dish with Heart
For us, this recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a way to slow down and savor life. There’s something deeply grounding about chopping vegetables, stirring the pot, and watching simple ingredients transform into something incredible. It’s like a little meditation in the kitchen.
We’ve also made this for friends and family, and it’s always a hit. There’s a certain joy in watching everyone’s faces light up as they dig into this hearty, flavorful dish.
Leftovers That Rock
This goulash tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Trust us, you’ll be looking forward to it.
Bring a Touch of Europe to Your Kitchen
Every bite of this vegan mushroom goulash takes us on a little culinary journey to the heart of Europe. It’s a dish that brings people together, warms the soul, and proves that plant-based eating can be just as indulgent and satisfying as traditional comfort food.
So, grab your apron, pour yourself a glass of wine, and join us in the kitchen. Let’s create a meal that’s equal parts delicious and memorable. Trust us, once you’ve tried this goulash, it’ll find a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients
For the Mushroom Goulash:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 300 g 10 oz button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 medium carrots thinly sliced
- 1 leek sliced into thin rounds
- ½ cup (120ml) dry red wine (vegan-friendly)
- 1 ½ tbsp sweet paprika powder
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 ½ cups 360ml vegetable broth
- ½ cup 120ml unsweetened plant-based cream (e.g., oat or soy cream)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika optional, for extra flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp cornstarch optional, to thicken sauce mixed with 2 tbsp water
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 800 g 1.75 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 tbsp vegan butter
- ½ cup 120ml unsweetened plant-based milk (e.g., almond, oat, or soy)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish (optional):
- Fresh parsley finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes or until tender. Drain well.
- Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or fork. Add vegan butter, plant-based milk, salt, and pepper, and mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Make the Mushroom Goulash: Heat olive oil or vegan butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the sliced mushrooms, carrots, and leek to the pan. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.
- Deglaze the pan with the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Sprinkle in the sweet paprika, smoked paprika (if using), and thyme. Stir to coat the vegetables.
- Add the tomato paste, soy sauce, and vegetable broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Stir in the plant-based cream and cook for another 2 minutes. If the sauce is too thin, add the cornstarch slurry and simmer until the sauce thickens to your liking.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the mashed potatoes and top them generously with the mushroom goulash.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, ensure your soy sauce or tamari is certified gluten-free.
- You can substitute the mushrooms with other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for variation.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Vegan Mushroom Goulash
🍄 Can I Use Different Types of Mushrooms for the Goulash?
Definitely! While we often use portobello mushrooms for their meaty texture, feel free to try a mix of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or even wild mushrooms for varied flavors and textures. Experimenting can lead to some delicious discoveries!
🍷 What Kind of Red Wine Works Best in This Recipe?
A good quality vegan red wine that you enjoy drinking will work perfectly in this goulash. We typically recommend a medium-bodied wine like Merlot or Pinot Noir, which adds a lovely depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
🥔 Can I Make the Mashed Potatoes Without Oil or Butter?
Absolutely! For a lighter version of mashed potatoes, you can use vegetable broth or unsweetened plant-based milk to get that creamy texture. Season well with salt, pepper, and maybe a touch of garlic powder for extra flavor.
⏲️ How Long Does It Take to Cook Vegan Mushroom Goulash?
The goulash itself takes about 45 minutes to cook, including prep time. This allows the mushrooms to fully absorb the flavors of the wine and spices, making each bite rich and satisfying.
🌿 Is There a Gluten-Free Option for This Recipe?
Yes, our mushroom goulash can easily be made gluten-free by ensuring that all your broth and other ingredients, like soy sauce, are gluten-free. Always check labels if you’re serving this dish to someone with gluten sensitivities.
🥘 Can This Dish Be Prepared in Advance?
Yes, it’s actually perfect for making ahead! The flavors of the goulash deepen beautifully overnight. Just reheat on the stove or in a microwave when ready to serve. The mashed potatoes can also be reheated with a little added liquid to restore their creamy texture.
🎉 Got More Questions?
We’re here to help! If you have any more questions about this comforting vegan goulash, feel free to drop them in the comments below or connect with us on our social media pages. We love hearing from you and seeing how our recipes turn out in your kitchen! 🌟
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