Mushroom bourguignon! Just the name sounds comforting, doesn’t it? This vegan take on the traditional French recipe is hearty, savory, and perfect for a cozy night in. Imagine tender mushrooms bathed in a rich, red wine sauce, infused with aromatic herbs and a hint of smokiness. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to curl up by the fireplace with a good book and a glass of (vegan) wine. Even better, this mushroom bourguignon is surprisingly easy to make! Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about simple, flavorful ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 8 ounces shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and sliced
- 1 cup dry red wine (like Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
For a richer flavor: Consider adding 1/4 cup of plant-based butter along with the olive oil.
Don’t have vegetable broth? You can substitute it with water and an extra teaspoon of vegetable bouillon.
Tools of the Trade
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Let’s Get Cooking!
-
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
-
Mushroom Magic: Add the sliced cremini and shiitake mushrooms to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes, or until the mushrooms have released their liquid and are golden brown.
-
Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This is called deglazing, and it adds tons of flavor! Stir in the vegetable broth, thyme sprigs, bay leaf, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
-
Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Gradually whisk this mixture into the mushroom bourguignon and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Mushroom Bourguignon in a Bowl
Tips for Mushroom Bourguignon Success
- Mushroom Selection: For the best flavor and texture, use a combination of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, oyster, or portobello.
- Don’t Rush the Mushrooms: Allowing the mushrooms to cook down and brown properly is key for developing rich flavor.
- Wine Matters: Use a dry red wine that you would actually enjoy drinking. The quality of the wine will impact the flavor of the dish.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, be sure to taste the bourguignon and adjust the seasonings as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
Serving Suggestions
Mushroom bourguignon is incredibly versatile! You can serve it over:
- Creamy polenta
- Mashed potatoes
- Egg noodles
- Crusty bread for dipping
Pairing tip: This dish pairs beautifully with a light, fruity red wine like a Pinot Noir.
Mushroom Bourguignon Ingredients
FAQs About Mushroom Bourguignon
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors tend to deepen and develop even more when the bourguignon is made a day or two in advance. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Can I freeze mushroom bourguignon?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Indulge in the Flavors of France
This mushroom bourguignon is proof that plant-based meals can be just as satisfying and comforting as their traditional counterparts. If you’re looking for an elegant yet easy dish to impress your family and friends, this recipe is a surefire winner. For more tips on creating delicious and easy sauce recipes, check out our guide on How to Make Sauce Bourguignonne Dressing Salad.
Vegan Mushroom Bourguignon Close Up
So gather your ingredients, open a bottle of wine (for the recipe, of course!), and get ready to experience the magic of mushroom bourguignon! Let us know how yours turns out by sharing your experience in the comments below. We love hearing from you!
