This Slow Cooker Mushroom & Lentil Stew is the perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal for busy days. The convenience of slow cooking allows the mushrooms to transform into a rich, savory base, while lentils and root vegetables meld together with aromatic herbs for a hearty vegetarian or vegan main dish.
Using a crock pot for this recipe means you can enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort. Simply prepare the ingredients, set the timer, and let the slow cooker do the work for you.
Hearty Mushroom & Lentil Stew Recipe
This stew features a blend of mushrooms, lentils, and root vegetables, simmered slowly to develop deep flavors. The recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 6-8 hours to cook on low, serving 6 people. It’s a satisfying dish that can also be adapted for meat lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or shiitake for depth of flavor)
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: 1 cup cooked chicken or beef, diced (for non-vegetarians)
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Rinse the lentils and slice the mushrooms. Dice the carrots and potatoes, chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
- Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, add the lentils, sliced mushrooms, diced carrots, potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, vegetable broth, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil.
- Set the Slow Cooker: Stir the ingredients to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Adjust Seasoning: Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If using, stir in the cooked chicken or beef before serving.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 10 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 bowls
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
