If you’re searching for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort with every spoonful, look no further than this Caramelized Mushroom and Turmeric Stew Recipe. It’s a beautiful harmony of earthy caramelized mushrooms, vibrant turmeric-spiced cabbage, and hearty farro, all swimming in a rich, fragrant broth. This stew is like a cozy hug in a bowl that’s perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on a quiet evening. The way the mushrooms caramelize adds a deep umami flavor while turmeric brings a golden hue and gentle warmth, making it both a feast for the eyes and the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a bowl of thick soup with three main layers: the base layer is a golden-brown broth, filled with chickpeas and soft green cabbage pieces spread evenly. The middle layer includes dark olives and green herbs, finely chopped and scattered throughout the soup for texture. On top, there are bright green dill sprigs that add freshness. A slice of toasted bread with a rough, crispy texture leans on the edge of the white bowl, the soup bowl itself having a wide green stripe on the rim. In the background, another white bowl with the same soup and fresh dill is partly visible, all placed on a white marbled surface. A silver spoon rests inside the soup bowl, with a woman’s hand holding it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might look straightforward, but each one plays a special role in crafting the deep flavors and comforting textures of this stew. From the tender cabbage to the nutty farro, every component is essential for making this dish truly sing.

1/2 small white cabbage: Adds a mild sweetness and a wonderful melt-in-your-mouth texture when cooked down.
1 medium yellow onion: Provides the perfect aromatic base with its natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
2 cups baby bella mushrooms: Bring an earthy, meaty depth, especially when caramelized to perfection.
3 garlic cloves: Infuse the stew with a subtle pungency and warmth that complements the turmeric.
2 tablespoons salted butter: Adds richness and helps develop those perfect caramelized edges.
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Balances richness with a subtle fruitiness and prevents sticking.
Diamond Crystal kosher salt: Essential for enhancing every flavor in the stew.
Freshly cracked black pepper: Provides gentle heat that wakes up the palate.
1 tablespoon turmeric: Colors the stew beautifully and offers mild earthiness with anti-inflammatory benefits.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a warm, nutty note that complements the mushrooms and turmeric.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Introduces a subtle kick for a hint of heat without overpowering.
2 13.5-ounce cans chickpeas or white beans: Contribute protein and creamy texture to make the stew filling.
8 cups vegetable or chicken broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base—rich and savory.
1/2 cup uncooked farro: Adds a chewy bite that soaks up all those delicious broth flavors.
2 tablespoons cornstarch: Used to thicken the stew slightly for a luscious consistency.
Chopped dill and scallions: Bright, fresh garnishes that lift the stew’s flavors and add color.

How to Make Caramelized Mushroom and Turmeric Stew Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Veggies

Start by chopping your cabbage into bite-sized chunks, slicing the onion thinly, and slicing the mushrooms the same way. Then grate your garlic cloves so they release their full flavor evenly throughout the stew. Taking the time to prep thoroughly will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Caramelize Onion and Mushrooms

Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and all of the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in your onions and mushrooms, seasoning with salt and pepper right away. Patience is key here—cook and stir often for about 10 to 13 minutes until you see the edges darkening and those wonderful frizzled bits forming. This stage creates the rich, umami foundation that makes this stew unforgettable.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Sprinkle in the turmeric, cumin, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir well to coat your caramelized veggies in these vibrant spices. The turmeric will infuse your stew with warmth and a beautiful golden color, while cumin adds an earthy depth.

Step 4: Add Butter, Garlic, and Cabbage

Time to add the remaining tablespoon of butter so the pot doesn’t dry out. Once melted, toss in the grated garlic for that fragrant pop, then stir in the cabbage. Keep tossing everything together until each cabbage piece is gloriously coated with the spice mixture. A pinch of salt and fresh black pepper here will brighten the flavors even more. Let the cabbage soften and start looking tender over about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Beans and Broth Join the Party

Drain and rinse your chickpeas or white beans before adding them to the pot. Pour in the broth next—this is where your stew really starts to come alive, blending all those concentrated flavors. Give everything a good stir to combine before moving on to simmering.

Step 6: Simmer with Farro and Thicken

Add the farro, cover the pot, and let it gently simmer for 25 to 30 minutes. Halfway through, whisk together your cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir that into the stew. This will give the broth a perfect velvety thickness without weighing it down. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning once the simmering finishes to get the balance just right.

Step 7: Ready to Serve

Check that the cabbage has softened and the farro is tender but still has a pleasant chew. Now your stew is ready to be spooned into bowls and garnished thoughtfully. The aroma alone will pull everyone to the table!

How to Serve Caramelized Mushroom and Turmeric Stew Recipe

The image shows two white bowls side by side on a white marble surface. The bowl on the left is filled with raw, light brown mushrooms cut into halves and quarters, showing a smooth texture and pale beige inside with darker outer skins. The bowl on the right contains cooked mushrooms with a dark brown color and a slightly glossy and soft texture, mixed with small pieces of light-colored onions. The mushrooms fill the bowls almost to the top, and the steam or moisture suggests they are still warm. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped dill and scallions over the top just before serving. These bright green herbs add a fresh, herbal contrast to the rich, earthy stew and bring a lively color that makes each bowl inviting.

Side Dishes

This stew is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to offer something extra, crusty bread or warm pita are perfect for dipping into the luscious broth. A light side salad with lemon vinaigrette also pairs beautifully, cutting through the stew’s richness with a fresh zing.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this stew in rustic bowls topped with a dollop of plain yogurt or a splash of tahini for a creamy, tangy twist. You can also top with toasted pine nuts or crispy fried shallots for added texture and a little bit of crunch. These small touches turn a simple stew into a special occasion meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day stew just as delicious, if not more so.

Freezing

This stew freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat the stew over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much during storage. Reheating slowly helps maintain the delicate balance of textures and flavors without overcooking the vegetables.

FAQs

Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Absolutely! While baby bella mushrooms work beautifully for their meaty texture and flavor, you can experiment with cremini, shiitake, or even oyster mushrooms. Each will bring a slightly different character to the stew, which is part of the fun.

Is farro necessary in the recipe?

Farro adds a wonderful hearty bite that soaks up the broth, but you can substitute it with barley, brown rice, or even quinoa if you prefer. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they vary.

Can I make this stew vegan?

Definitely! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative like vegan margarine or extra olive oil, and ensure your broth is vegetable-based. The stew will still be just as rich and satisfying.

How spicy is the stew with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes give just a gentle warmth that enhances the depth of flavor without overwhelming the dish. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce or omit it without losing the stew’s essence.

What’s the best broth to use?

Both vegetable and chicken broth work wonderfully here. For a richer, heartier stew, chicken broth is great, but vegetable broth keeps it lighter and fully vegetarian. Using a good-quality broth really makes a difference in the final flavor.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say this Caramelized Mushroom and Turmeric Stew Recipe is a true gem that deserves a spot on your favorite recipe list. It’s comforting, nourishing, and packed with layers of flavor that warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this stew will become a beloved go-to meal that you’ll want to make again and again.