Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils

Name: Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup coconut milk; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Collection

I absolutely love this Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils recipe because it brings together rich, comforting flavors and healthy ingredients in one bowl. The combination of tender lentils, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety tomato sauce creates a dish that warms my heart. In just under 30 minutes, I can whip up this wholesome meal that not only satisfies my cravings but also provides a nourishing boost. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or a cozy gathering with friends!

Created by

Prudence Whitby

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:45:35.016Z

When I first experimented with making lentils creamy, I was skeptical about how they would turn out. But the addition of fresh mushrooms and rich tomatoes blended together perfectly, creating a deliciously satisfying dish. My family loved every bite, and now it's a staple in our kitchen.

I discovered that allowing the lentils to simmer in the sauce really enhances their flavor. Plus, using coconut milk gives it a luxurious texture that feels indulgent, while still being wholesome. It's a fantastic way to enjoy plant-based goodness!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that brings comfort to every spoonful
Rich depth of flavor from earthy mushrooms and tangy tomatoes
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

Mastering Lentils

Choosing the right type of lentils for this dish can greatly affect the final texture and cooking time. Green or brown lentils are ideal due to their firm texture that holds up well. They typically cook in about 15-20 minutes, becoming tender without falling apart. Avoid using red lentils, as they cook much faster and can turn mushy, which isn't what you want for this creamy, hearty dish.

Rinsing the lentils before cooking is essential. This not only removes dust but also helps to ensure that they cook evenly. I've found that a thorough rinse under cold water until the water runs clear is the best method. This simple step enhances the overall cleanliness and flavor as the lentils will absorb the rich broth and sauce beautifully.

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk adds a luscious creaminess to the dish while also enhancing its nutrition. The healthy fats present in coconut milk not only contribute to the delightful texture but also promote the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins from the vegetables and lentils. For a lighter version, you can substitute light coconut milk, but keep in mind, such substitutions might slightly alter the creaminess you desire.

When adding coconut milk, it's important to let the mixture simmer gently rather than boiling it vigorously. This approach ensures that the coconut milk doesn't separate, resulting in a creamy, cohesive sauce. A simmer of about 5 minutes is typically perfect for blending flavors without compromising texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even heat distribution.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils dish can be versatile in serving. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice for a heartier meal. For added nutrition, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed veggies. If you enjoy a bit of spice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce upon serving can elevate the flavor profile.

Feel free to experiment with different mushrooms or add other vegetables to personalize the recipe. For example, spinach or kale can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking for extra greens. A splash of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the overall flavors. Each slight alteration creates a unique twist on the original recipe, catering to your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful cooking experience!

Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup coconut milk
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

These ingredients come together to create a delicious, hearty meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy lentil dish!

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Mushrooms

Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they are softened and browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Lentils and Broth

Stir in the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

Incorporate the Tomatoes and Coconut Milk

Add the diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and dried oregano. Stir well and let it cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the creamy lentils warm, garnished with fresh basil.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of chili flakes for added heat.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your lentils are still firm after the suggested cooking time, simply cover them and let them simmer a little longer. A gentle simmer allows the lentils to soften further without turning mushy. Make sure to check occasionally, and if needed, add a splash of broth or water to keep everything moist.

In case your sauce appears too thick, you can easily adjust this by stirring in a bit more vegetable broth or coconut milk. This will not only loosen the consistency but will also enhance the creaminess. Make sure to do this gradually, allowing it to blend in smoothly before adding more.

Storage and Reheating

This dish stores wonderfully, making it great for meal prep. After it cools, you can store the Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or coconut milk to restore its creaminess.

For longer storage, you can freeze the lentils. Portion them into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply transfer to the refrigerator overnight or defrost in the microwave. Reheating in a pan with a little liquid will help maintain that delightful creamy texture.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're cooking for a crowd, this recipe scales up beautifully. For every additional cup of lentils, increase the vegetable broth by 2 cups and adjust the other ingredients accordingly. Keep an eye on the simmering time, as it may require a few extra minutes to fully cook the lentils depending on the quantity.

Conversely, if you're cooking for just one or two, you can easily halve the recipe. Lentils store well even after cooking, so consider making the full batch and enjoying leftovers—this dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of lentils?

Yes, you can use other lentil varieties, but cooking times may vary. Red lentils cook faster while green and brown retain their shape better.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is already vegan as it uses coconut milk and vegetable broth. Just ensure the broth is labeled vegan.

→ Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! The flavors improve over time, so you can make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve this with?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.