Cozy & Creamy Vegan Beef Stroganoff with Mushrooms

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw cashews (150 g), soaked in hot water for 15 minutes
• 3/4 cup unsweetened plant milk (180 ml), such as almond or oat
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegan butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup / 150 g)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 12 oz (340 g) cremini or white button mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup (150 g) vegan beef strips or seitan, optional for extra protein
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh if available
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
• 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Cooked egg-free pasta or rice, for serving