Mushroom and Green Pea Risotto – A Comforting Plant-Based Recipe

This vegan mushroom and green pea risotto combines the rich creaminess of traditional risotto with a plant-based twist. Cashew cream adds a velvety texture, while the mushrooms and green peas deliver earthy flavors and a pop of color.

Why Make This Mushroom and Green Pea Risotto?

It offers a satisfying, cheesy flavor without the heaviness of cheese or butter. It’s comforting, nutritious, and packed with plant-based ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup cashews

• 1 cup finely chopped onion

• 8 oz button mushrooms, trimmed and sliced

• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

• 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas

• 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

• 1 cup short-grain brown rice

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp nutritional yeast

• Sea salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Soak Cashews: Place cashews in a small bowl, cover with 1 cup water, and soak for 30 minutes.

2. Cook the Veggies: In a large skillet, combine onion with 1/4 cup water, cover, and cook over high heat for 5 minutes. Stir in mushrooms and black pepper, cooking over medium heat until tender (8-10 minutes). Add peas and cook for another 5 minutes, adding water as needed to prevent sticking. Set aside.

3. Cook the Rice: In a saucepan, combine vegetable broth, rice, garlic, and thyme. Bring to a boil, reduce to medium heat, and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Make Cashew Cream: Blend soaked cashews and their water until smooth.

5. Combine Ingredients: Add mushroom mixture, cashew cream, apple cider vinegar, nutritional yeast, and salt to the cooked rice. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until creamy (about 30 minutes).

6. Let Stand: Remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot.

Customizing Your Mushroom and Green Pea Risotto

• Add more veggies: Include spinach, asparagus, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.

• Change the herbs: Use fresh thyme or rosemary for a more intense flavor.

Enjoy this creamy, comforting, and plant-based risotto as a satisfying main dish or side!