Vegan Creamy Garlic & Thyme Mushrooms

Introduction

Elevate your culinary repertoire with this delectable Vegan Creamy Garlic & Thyme Mushrooms recipe. This dish combines the rich, earthy flavors of mushrooms with a luxurious, creamy sauce that is entirely plant-based. It’s a perfect side dish or a stand-alone main course for anyone seeking a savory, satisfying vegan option. Ideal for special occasions or a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe balances both indulgence and health.

Ingredients

For the Mushrooms:

  • 500 grams (1 lb) of fresh mushrooms (such as cremini, button, or a mix)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Sauce:

  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any preferred plant-based milk)
  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free alternative)
  • 1 tablespoon vegan butter
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1/4 cup vegan cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)

Garnish:

  • Fresh thyme sprigs
  • Chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Preparation of Ingredients:

  • Begin by cleaning the mushrooms thoroughly. Wipe them with a damp cloth or rinse them quickly and pat dry. Slice the mushrooms evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
  • Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Set aside.

2. Sautéing the Aromatics:

  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft.
  • Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and smoked paprika to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic to release its aroma and the herbs to bloom.

3. Cooking the Mushrooms:

  • Increase the heat to medium-high and add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Stir to coat the mushrooms with the aromatics.
  • Cook the mushrooms, stirring occasionally, for about 7-10 minutes or until they are golden brown and have released their moisture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

4. Preparing the Creamy Sauce:

  • In a small saucepan, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  • Gradually pour in the almond milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture starts to thicken.
  • Stir in the nutritional yeast, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and vegan cream cheese (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

5. Combining and Simmering:

  • Pour the creamy sauce over the cooked mushrooms in the skillet. Stir well to ensure the mushrooms are evenly coated with the sauce.
  • Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken further.

6. Final Touches:

  • Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
  • Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and chopped parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Vegan Creamy Garlic & Thyme Mushrooms over a bed of quinoa, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables. They also make an excellent topping for baked potatoes or as a savory filling for wraps and sandwiches.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 160 kcal
  • Total Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugars: 4 g
  • Protein: 5 g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints

  • SmartPoints: 4 points per serving (based on the current WW Freestyle program)

Useful Information

Ingredient Substitutions:

  • Mushrooms: Feel free to use a mix of mushrooms for a more complex flavor profile. Shiitake or portobello mushrooms can add an extra depth of flavor.
  • Plant-Based Milk: Any unsweetened plant-based milk works well, including oat milk or soy milk.
  • Flour: Use a gluten-free flour blend if needed, or cornstarch as an alternative thickening agent.

Tips for Success:

  • For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the skillet before adding the mushrooms.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more plant-based milk to reach the desired consistency.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Conclusion

This Vegan Creamy Garlic & Thyme Mushrooms recipe is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed by vegans and non-vegans alike. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it offers a comforting experience without compromising on health. Whether you’re preparing a meal for a special occasion or simply looking for a delicious addition to your weekly menu, this recipe is sure to impress.

Enjoy the creamy goodness and savor each bite of this vegan delight!