Vegan Mushroom Bisque Recipe for a Creamy Comfort Meal

Updated On: October 4, 2025

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that’s both elegant and completely plant-based, look no further than this vegan mushroom bisque recipe. Creamy, rich, and loaded with earthy umami flavor, this soup is the perfect way to warm up on a cool evening or impress guests at your next dinner gathering.

Unlike traditional bisques that rely on dairy, this version gets its luscious texture from cashews and coconut milk, making it both vegan and gluten-free.

What sets this vegan mushroom bisque apart is its depth of flavor, thanks to a generous mix of fresh mushrooms, aromatic vegetables, and carefully chosen seasonings. Each spoonful delivers the rustic charm of woodland mushrooms, balanced by a silky smooth finish.

Whether you’re a longtime vegan or simply craving a plant-based meal that feels indulgent, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to discover your new favorite soup?

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Creamy and Satisfying: Despite being dairy-free, this bisque is incredibly rich and smooth, thanks to blended cashews and coconut milk.
  • Loaded with Umami: A variety of mushrooms and a splash of tamari give this soup a deep, savory flavor profile.
  • Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for both novice and experienced cooks.
  • Nutritious and Filling: Packed with vegetables, healthy fats, and plant-based protein, it’s a wholesome meal for any time of day.
  • Perfect for Entertaining: Its elegant presentation makes it ideal for dinner parties or holiday gatherings.
  • Versatile: Easily adaptable to gluten-free, soy-free, or nut-free diets with a few simple swaps.

Ingredients

Ingredient Amount Notes
Cremini or button mushrooms 1 pound (450g) Sliced, can substitute with mixed wild mushrooms
Onion 1 medium Diced
Celery stalks 2 Diced
Carrot 1 large Diced
Garlic cloves 4 Minced
Raw cashews 3/4 cup (90g) Soaked in hot water for 15 minutes
Coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) Full-fat for creaminess
Vegetable broth 4 cups (1 liter) Low-sodium preferred
Olive oil 2 tablespoons Or vegan butter
Tamari or soy sauce 1 tablespoon For umami depth
Thyme 1 teaspoon Dried (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
Bay leaf 1 Optional
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon For brightness
Salt & black pepper To taste Adjust as desired
Fresh parsley 2 tablespoons Chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • High-speed blender (or immersion blender)
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Ladle
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Small bowl (for soaking cashews)

Instructions

  1. Soak the cashews.

    Place the raw cashews in a small bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

    This helps achieve the signature creamy texture of a bisque.

  2. Sauté the aromatics.

    Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrot.

    Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and beginning to brown.

  3. Add mushrooms and garlic.

    Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 8-10 minutes, allowing them to release their moisture and develop a deep golden color. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  4. Deglaze and season.

    Pour in the tamari (or soy sauce) and scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Sprinkle in the thyme and add the bay leaf if using.

    Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

  5. Add broth and simmer.

    Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.

  6. Blend the soup.

    Remove the bay leaf. Drain the soaked cashews and add them to the pot.

    Working in batches, carefully transfer the soup to a high-speed blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.

    Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot.

    Be cautious when blending hot liquids. If using a blender, vent the lid and cover with a towel to avoid steam buildup.

  7. Add coconut milk and lemon juice.

    Return the blended soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in the coconut milk and lemon juice.

    Warm gently for 2-3 minutes, but do not allow to boil. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.

  8. Serve and garnish.

    Ladle the bisque into bowls and top with chopped fresh parsley. A swirl of extra coconut milk and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper make for an elegant finish.

Tips & Variations

  • Mix up your mushrooms: Use a combination of cremini, shiitake, oyster, and portobello mushrooms for even more complex flavor.
  • Nut-free option: Substitute the cashews with 1 cup of cooked white beans or silken tofu for creaminess.
  • Soy-free version: Use coconut aminos instead of tamari or soy sauce. For more soy-free meal ideas, check out Soy Free Vegan Recipes for Delicious Plant-Based Meals.
  • Make it ahead: This bisque keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
  • For extra richness: Add a splash of vegan white wine after sautéing the mushrooms, allowing it to cook off before adding broth.
  • Garnish ideas: Try crispy fried mushroom slices, a drizzle of truffle oil, or toasted pumpkin seeds for added texture and flair.

Tip: If you’re a soup lover, explore our Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating for more nourishing and delicious options!

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1/6 recipe)
Calories 190
Protein 6g
Fat 13g
Carbohydrates 15g
Fiber 3g
Sugar 5g
Sodium 410mg

Nutrition information is approximate and will vary based on the exact brands and ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions

  • Crusty bread: Serve with thick slices of toasted sourdough or homemade bread. Try our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves for the perfect pairing.
  • Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the bisque.
  • Sandwiches: Grilled vegan cheese sandwiches or veggie paninis make this a satisfying lunch or dinner.
  • Appetizer: Serve in small cups or shot glasses as an elegant starter for holiday meals or dinner parties.
  • Toppings: Add a swirl of vegan crème fraîche, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flavor and style.

Hosting a soup and salad night? Pair this bisque with dishes from our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals collection for a meal full of global inspiration.

Conclusion

This vegan mushroom bisque is more than just a soup—it’s an invitation to slow down, savor each spoonful, and enjoy the comforting flavors of the season. Its creamy texture and earthy depth make it a standout dish for both special occasions and cozy weeknights at home.

Whether you’re new to plant-based cooking or a seasoned vegan, this bisque is sure to impress with its delicate balance of flavor and nutrition.

Don’t forget to experiment with different mushrooms or garnishes to make the recipe your own. From its healthful ingredients to its inviting aroma, this vegan mushroom bisque is certain to become a favorite in your home.

For more plant-based comfort foods and creative vegan recipes, check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious—the perfect sweet finish after a hearty bowl of soup. Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Mushroom Bisque

Description: This creamy vegan mushroom bisque is rich, savory, and perfect for a cozy meal. Enjoy the earthy flavors of mushrooms blended with herbs and coconut milk.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup canned coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add mushrooms, thyme, salt, and pepper; cook until mushrooms are soft, about 8 minutes.
  5. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer for 10 minutes.
  6. Stir in coconut milk and nutritional yeast.
  7. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth.
  8. Stir in lemon juice and adjust seasoning if needed.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 14 g

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Marta K

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