Introduction:
Creamy Mushroom Soup is a comforting, earthy, and rich dish that showcases the deep, umami flavors of mushrooms blended with a silky cream base. This soup is perfect for cozy evenings, whether served as an appetizer or as a light meal alongside some crusty bread. With its smooth texture and the fragrant aroma of sautéed mushrooms, it’s a classic that’s both elegant and simple to prepare.
Ingredients and Quantities:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound (450g) mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, or portobello), cleaned and sliced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Tips for Success:
- Use a mix of mushrooms for a more complex flavor. Combining cremini, button, and shiitake mushrooms works well.
- Sauté the mushrooms until they’re golden brown to bring out their natural, deep flavors.
- Blend for a smooth texture or leave some mushrooms whole for a chunkier soup, depending on your preference.
- Add a splash of white wine while cooking the mushrooms for a touch of acidity that enhances the flavor.
How to Make and Instructions:
- Sauté the aromatics:
In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. - Cook the mushrooms:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become golden brown. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. - Add the flour:
Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to slightly brown. - Add the broth:
Gradually pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop. - Blend (optional):
For a smooth soup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the soup to a blender in batches and puree until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend just half the soup and leave some mushroom pieces intact. - Add the cream:
Stir in the heavy cream and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. - Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Description:
Creamy Mushroom Soup is a velvety, rich dish that highlights the savory depth of mushrooms, balanced by the smoothness of cream. The combination of sautéed onions, garlic, and thyme creates an aromatic base that enhances the earthy flavor of the mushrooms. Whether served as a cozy weeknight meal or a starter for a special occasion, this soup offers comfort in every bite. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s sure to satisfy.
Nutritional Information: (per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
Conclusion and Recommendation:
Creamy Mushroom Soup is an easy-to-make, restaurant-quality dish that is perfect for mushroom lovers. The earthy richness of the mushrooms, paired with the smoothness of the cream, makes this a delicious and elegant meal. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it as a starter for a dinner party, this soup will always impress. Pair it with toasted bread or a side salad for a complete, satisfying meal.