Vegan Pearl Couscous Risotto with Shiitake Mushrooms (Cheesy & Cozy)
Creamy vegan pearl couscous risotto with shiitake mushrooms, vegan cheese, greens, and Better Than Bouillon. Cozy, cheesy, and dairy-free.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl couscous Israeli couscous
- 2 cups water for cooking couscous
- 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon vegetable base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon vegan butter
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 6 oz shiitake mushrooms sliced
- ¾ cup vegan cheese shredded
- ½ teaspoon chili garlic sauce or to taste
- ½ teaspoon mixed dried herbs thyme, oregano, or Italian blend
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups greens spinach, kale, or chard
Instructions
Cook the Pearl Couscous
- Cook pearl couscous in water according to package directions until tender. Drain well and set aside.
Sauté the Mushrooms (No Oil)
- Heat a wide pan over medium heat. Add shiitake mushrooms dry and cook until they release moisture and begin to brown.
Add Aromatics and Fat
- Add onion and garlic to the mushrooms. Once fragrant, add olive oil and vegan butter, stirring to coat everything evenly.
Season and Build Creaminess
- Stir in Better Than Bouillon, herbs, black pepper, and chili garlic sauce. Add the cooked couscous and toss well to combine.
Melt Cheese and Finish
- Add vegan cheese and stir gently until melted and creamy. Adjust texture with a splash of warm water if needed, then fold in greens until just wilted.
Notes
-
Texture Control
Pearl couscous continues to absorb moisture as it rests. Before serving, loosen the risotto with warm water or broth until creamy and spoonable. -
Cheese Melting Tip
Lower the heat before adding vegan cheese to prevent clumping or separation. Gentle heat creates the smoothest texture. -
Salt Adjustment
Better Than Bouillon is salty. Taste before adding extra salt, especially after the cheese melts. -
Oil-Free Option
Mushrooms can be sautéed completely without oil. Add water a tablespoon at a time if the pan gets dry. -
Make It Ahead
This dish keeps well and can be reheated with a splash of liquid to restore creaminess. -
Serving Suggestion
Serve warm as a main dish or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete plant-based meal.