Vegan mushroom risotto is a dish that sounds intimidating to make, but it's actually such an easy recipe. It does take some hands-on time, though, so you'll need to be present.

The good news is this creamy vegan risotto great recipe can be made in one pot with very few ingredients! This means fewer dishes for you to clean up afterward, which always makes cooking more enjoyable.
If you have read our blog before, you might have noticed that we are fans of risotto, and since we live in Milano, where risotto originated, it is a dish that we cook at least once a week and have perfectioned over time.
As we love cooking seasonal, and we are fully into the Fall season, when mushroom foraging is at its peak, it is only natural to share this delicious mushroom risotto with you.
We took the inspiration to make this dish during our travels in the Piedmont Region in Italy, where we tasted fantastic porcini mushroom risotto and stuffed plins (which look like a local small version of ravioli).
We make it frequently and enjoy this recipe with different types of mushrooms. It is also during this time of the year that we make other recipes calling for porcini mushrooms such as the Holiday Nut Roast, Stuffed Onions, and herbs stuffed mushrooms.
Origins of risotto
Although rice was introduced to southern Italy in the 14th-century by the Arabs, as its cultivation spread to Northern Italy, the Mediterranean humid weather influenced its shape, giving birth to its short and glutinous versions.
The famous Risotto alla Milanese (also found in this blog) is simple but flavorful and's prominent flavor comes from saffron, a common spice also used in Spanish cuisine (think of Paella).
The first version has been called the Risotto alla Milanese and is traditionally composed of butter, parmesan cheese, onions, white wine, and saffron.
Our Plant-Based versions are not traditional but vegan and follow the conventional techniques. Check our Sun-dried Tomatoes Risotto recipe, for another great and easy-to-make version of this Italian favorite! They are equally delicious and perfect for us who follow a vegan diet!
Mushrooms also pair fantastically with lemon asparagus risotto, a great option for springtime and Easter dinners.
Ingredients in this vegan mushroom risotto recipe
- Mixed mushrooms (cremini, cardo, portobello, porcini)
- Carnarolli rice (or arborio)
- Warm vegetable broth
- Dry white wine
- Onions
- Fresh garlic
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Herbs (rosemary, sage, or fresh thyme)
- Plant-based parm cheese (or nutritional yeast)
Optional:
Vegan butter, Fresh chopped parsley to garnish.
How to make creamy dairy-free perfect vegan risotto
To make this easy mushroom risotto you need only 10 ingredients and 30 minutes. There is no cream in this recipe because the liquid helps release the starch within the carnarolli or arborio rice.
When making this simple mushroom risotto, everything happens in one pot.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1. Clean your mushrooms.
Depending on the type of mushroom you choose to use, they might come with more or less dirt, but you need to clean them up either by brushing them or lightly washing them. Just don't submerge the mushrooms in water.
Mushrooms tend to absorb liquid like a sponge because they are porous. We don't want that to happen because it's hard to caramelize them and make them more flavorful once that happens—they just become too soggy.
Put your vegetable broth to simmer.
Step 2. Chop the veggies.
Towel path-dry the mushroom and slice and cut your mushrooms into pieces. I like to have different textures, so you can slice some of them and chop others in quarters if using cremini mushrooms.
If you have cardoncelli or shiitake mushrooms, you can carefully rip them from top to bottom.
Peel and chop your onions. If you like textures, slice the onions lengthwise; if you don't, simply dice them finely.
Step 3. Stir fry the mushrooms.
In a flat saucepan, briefly heat one tablespoon of olive oil for a couple of seconds and stir-fry your mushrooms face-down, stirring occasionally, so you get that beautiful caramel color out, which you wouldn't get if you add them directly into the flat saucepan.
They would just look like canned mushrooms, dully and boringly greyish.
Once you get that beautiful golden color on some of them, it is time to remove them from the saucepan and reserve them.
Step 4. Stir-frying the rest of ingredients
Now it is time to get everything in! On medium heat and using the same saucepan, add one tablespoon of olive oil, followed by your choice of herbs (I am using fresh rosemary and sage).
There is no need to rip the leaves off. It is better to keep the herbs’ leaves attached to the stem to remove them later.
Allow the herbs to briefly infuse and stir in the chopped onions until slightly brown, then add the minced garlic.
Add the carnarolli rice (no need to wash or soak it), and stir, until it looks slightly toasted (don't let the onions or garlic get too dark).
Now is when all the magic happens: add the wine, and stir until it is fully consumed. It will only take less than a minute.
Hint: What is happening here is that the wine is causing the rice to open up to absorb all the flavors coming from the liquids and herbs.
Stir in the reserved caramelized mushrooms.
Step 5. Add the hot veggie broth.
Stir in the stock, little by little, while stirring, adding more veggie broth until 'al dente.'
You may be wondering why you cannot add all the stock immediately if you will be using all of it anyway? Well, this is the magic of risotto.
Pro Tip: the carnarolli and arborio medium-grained rice kinds are very starchy, thus giving this vegan mushroom risotto its beloved creamy texture. But for them to unleash their starch, they need to be rubbed amongst them, so a minimal amount of liquid should be in the saucepan. Otherwise, you would be making rice soup.
On minute 10, add the homemade vegan parmesan or cheesy nutritional yeast (which replaces the traditional parm cheese).
All of this will take about 15 minutes, but you should be stirring and adding liquid as it dries out.
Step 6. "Mantecatura."
The final step is called Mantecatura in Italian, which means adding the final fatty component, which usually comes from butter.
Here, you can use either a good quality extra-virgin oil (this is the Sicilian style) or a good quality Vegan butter, such as Earth Balance.
The point here is to add an extra layer of fat to make it extra creamy.
You may taste and adjust using salt and pepper to taste, although it is rarely needed. It entirely depends on how salty is your vegetable broth.
Step 7. Stir, garnish, and serve.
Remove from the heat, let it sit for 2-5 minutes, and serve. Garnish with chopped parsley and optionally add the Parmesan Vegan Cheese (made in only 5-minutes and can be made beforehand and stored for months).
Optionally top with freshly ground black pepper and enjoy dinner tonight!
Ingredient notes for the best vegan risotto
Risotto rice - we use Carnarolli rice which is the indisputable Italian choice for risotto, here in Milano, the house of risotto. Still, it is also acceptable to use arborio rice as it shares the same shape, starchy, and characteristics.
Just don't use jasmine rice or any other rice. I am not being snobbish; you will just not get a creamy risotto. Other rice grains don't have the starch qualities that we are looking for.
Brown rice - I have used whole bran carnarolli and arborio rice, but it takes forever to make, and I have not gotten the creaminess that we all expect from a delicious homemade risotto.
Cauliflower rice, unluckily, isn't a fit for this lovely recipe, as it lacks the starches typical from the short and medium-size rice varieties.
Vegetable stock - if you don't feel like making your own veggie stock, try using a quality one. Yes, you can use a "knorr cube," but you will not get the same results. Remember that this is the flavor you are soaking up your rice grains with, make the rice choice.
You can use a granulated good quality stock, and if you want even more mushroom flavor, you can also add about 3 ounces (100 grams) of porcini mushrooms to your vegetable broth to make a mushroom broth, and then add it all to your rice. If you do this, reduce the number of fresh mushrooms; otherwise, you will not appreciate the rice. Don't flood your risotto with too many mushrooms.
Wine - always use dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Blanc, which have high acidity and a low sweetness. Don't go for Chardonnay or any other fruity or sweet wines. They will drastically affect the result. Do not overdo the wine; it may make your risotto too acid.
If you don't have wine, don't worry; skip it. If you are not cooking for a pragmatist or Italian connoisseur, your guests might not even notice the difference. My Italian neighbors might hate them for saying this, but hey! I am already skipping the butter and the parmesan to make a creamy vegan risotto, so I already took the risk!
Mushrooms - all mushrooms work. You can use porcini, cremini, portobella, shiitake. We use a mix of Cardoncelli mushrooms and Cremini mushrooms (also nicknamed brown button mushroom, baby Bellas or portobello mushrooms (which make great stuffed portobello's as a side dish).
Dairy - no, not using dairy, is a vegan risotto, but I am making the point, so you know what we are using her to replace what? We use nutritional yeast and vegan parmesan cheese to replace traditional parmesan dairy cheese. And we use vegan butter and/or extra virgin oil to replace the butter. Do not use coconut milk or oil. It will drastically affect the flavor of the vegan mushroom risotto recipe.
Herbs - I don't let a lack of herbs stop me from making a risotto, but I always have some fresh or dried herbs in my kitchen. My favorites? Rosemary, thyme, and sage.
Onions - same as above. Use any onions you have handy or a mix of them. I personally like using white or yellow onions, with an extra piece of spring white or purple spring onions. The green tops add that extra that I love. You can also substitute it all together with leaks, which work wonderfully.
Although I have successfully used red onion, keep in mind that it is a sweet onion, and it can slightly affect the result, given its higher sugar content.
Variations
If you want to add more veggies, try to use veggies that won't affect the flavor, such as frozen peas or cooked vegetables like sweet potato. Add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Instant pot - you can easily make this recipe on an instant pot. I would just advise you to stir-fry the mushrooms in a saucepan previously to add them to the pot.
To make a larger batch, just double the recipe, keeping all the proportions.
Cooking Times
The cooking times mentioned in this vegan recipe are only a guide only if you have a gas stove, the preparation will likely go faster. You should also watch when the stock is almost all gone before adding more, and if you are left without broth and the rice isn't al-dente yet, go ahead and simply add a little water; the flavor is already in!
How do I serve risotto?
Vegan Parmesan and chopped parsley are our go-to choices, but risotto doesn't really need anything else on top. For the looks, I have played with sliced toasted almonds for an extra crunch and freshly ground black pepper.
You can serve this amazing recipe with a side such as roasted asparagus with freshly squeezed lemon juice, homemade garlic bread, or Brussels sprouts. Both go very nicely together with risotto.
Storing and freezing
If you have leftovers from this delicious meal, you can safely store cooked risotto in an airtight container in the fridge and can be consumed within three days.
If you decide to freeze it, thaw it overnight or in the microwave, and make sure to have some extra veggie stock to add to the vegan mushroom risotto and bring it back to life!
Thank you so much, and we hope you enjoy this creamy dairy-free risotto as much as we do!
More risotto recipes
The Roasted Pumpkin risotto is really nice option. The classic veganized Risotto alla Milanese is also a great choice to get into the spirit of understanding the roots of this absolutely delicious Italian dish.
You can also check out our Lemony Winter risotto, which is a great winter choice.
More Vegan and Italian delicious recipes
If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don't forget to tag a photo #ourplantbasedworld on Instagram. Cheers!
Recipe
Creamy Vegan Mushrooms Risotto
Ingredients
- 8 oz mixed mushrooms cremini, cardoncelli, portobello, porcini, or oyster mushrooms
- 1 cup carnarolli rice or arborio rice, 7 oz or 200 grams
- 5 cups vegetable broth option to infuse with 3 oz of dried porcini mushrooms
- 1 cup diced onions yellow, white, or spring onions, or a combination
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin, divided
- 4 sage leaves whole
- 1 rosemary sprig whole
- ¼ cup homemade vegan parmesan cheese plus more for serving
Optional:
- ⅓ cup dry white wine sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio
- 1 tablespoon vegan butter optional
- Fresh chopped parsley optional / to garnish
- salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
Prepare your mushrooms
- Clean them either by brushing or lightly washing them. Towel pad-dry the mushroom, and slice and cut your mushrooms into slices and quarters.
- If you have cardoncelli or shiitake mushrooms, you can carefully rip them from top to bottom.
- In a flat saucepan, briefly heat one tablespoon of oil for a couple of seconds and stir-fry your mushrooms, face-down, until golden brown.
Prepare the vegetable stock
- Put your vegetable stock to simmer. If using granulated store-bought veggie stock, bring the water to boil and prepare according to packaging instructions. Optionally add the dry porcini mushrooms to the vegetable broth.
Prepare the onions and garlic
- Peel and chop your onions. Slice the onions from top to bottom if you don't dice them finely. It is up to you. Mince the garlic.
Making the risotto (about 15 minutes)
- On medium heat, using the same flat saucepan, add one tablespoon of olive oil, followed by your choice of herbs and stems.
- Stir-fry the onions until golden brown. Add the minced garlic.
- Add the risotto rice, stir until lightly toasted, add the dry white wine (or ⅓ cup vegetable broth), and stir until it evaporates.
- Add the reserved mushrooms.
- Stir in the stock, little by little, stirring frequently, until 'al dente.'
- On minute ten, add the homemade vegan parmesan (or nutritional yeast).
- Then add one last tablespoon of oil or vegan butter and stir.
Garnish and serve.
- Remove from the heat, let it sit for 2-5 minutes, and serve. Garnish with chopped parsley, Vegan Parm Cheese, and freshly cracked black pepper.
Video
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Food safety
We sometimes take for granted that we have years (or decades) of cooking experience that the average visitor may not. Add to, or remove from, the list below with health and safety tips.
- Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
- Do not use the same utensils on cooked food that previously touched raw meat
- Wash hands after touching raw meat
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Use oils with high smoking points to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
See more guidelines at USDA.gov.
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist's advice. See our full Nutritional Disclosure here.
Please note that some of the links here are affiliate links, and I will earn a commission if you purchase through those links. I use all of the products listed and recommend them because they are companies that I have found helpful and trustworthy.
Natalie
It looks really creamy and perfectly cooked. Such a delicious dinner idea. I will give your recipe a try tonight. Have all the ingredients and I love a good risotto.
Gus
Thank you, Natalie! I'm so happy to hear that you'll be trying it tonight. It's been a pleasure hearing from you and I hope your family enjoys the recipe as much as ours have!
veenaazmanov
Unique and a comfort meal. Sounds like my comfort food. My family to love it too.
Gus
Thank you Veena! I'm so glad to hear that our food is a comfort for you and your family. We're always working on new recipes and we hope you'll keep checking back to see what's new.
Jessica
Yesssss, finally a risotto that is creamy and full of flavor!
Alisa Infanti
This was absolutely delicious! Totally making it again!
MJ
I'm dairy free and love this risotto! I normally use baby bella/cremini mushrooms but since chanterelles are in season here right now I added some and wow - the flavor was amazing!
Gus
MJ, I'm so glad you found our recipe to be dairy-free and loved the flavors. We always love hearing from people who are looking for plant-based recipes that taste delicious!
Thank you again for your review.
Dana Sandonato
I love this recipe! The medley of mushrooms brings so much flavor. I always go for baby bella, oyster, and porcini. I love how easy this it, too. Risotto has a rep for being finicky, but as long as you babysit it, piece of cake!
Gus
you are so right, Dana! It is like meditation. Just be present, and your guests will perceive all the 30 minutes of sustained love you devote to the dish! 🙂
Kristen Wood
This was absolutely delicious! Thank you for the fabulous recipe. 🙂
Iryna Bychkiv
Mushroom risotto is my favorite risotto, especially when several types of mushrooms are used. Easy and delicious!
Kristen
This turned out great! My whole family loved it. Thank you for the recipe!
Gus
That's so cool Kristen! Makes us very happy!
Mirlene
I am excited to try this risotto recipe! I'm very curious to try the carnarolli rice too!
Gus
you'll love it Mirlene! It is a one-way street! 🙂
Chris
There is nothing better than a homemade mushroom risotto! I was searching for a tasty risotto for a long time, but yours is n1. It is creamy, flavorful and the mushrooms make it a million times better! Thank you!
Michelle
This was a huge hit in my house. I love that it is quick to make but does not skimp on flavor!
Gus
I am glad you guys enjoyed it Michelle! It is an all-time favorite at home!