This creamy mushroom soup is a rich, hearty, and comforting dish made with earthy mushrooms, aromatic herbs, and a touch of creaminess. Perfect as a starter or a main course, this soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) mushrooms, finely chopped (shiitake and crimini recommended)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Sauté the Aromatics
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Mushrooms
- Stir in the chopped mushrooms and thyme.
- Cook until the mushrooms are soft and have released their juices, about 10 minutes.
Simmer the Soup
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Blend the Soup
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. For a chunkier texture, blend only part of the soup, leaving some mushroom pieces whole.
Add the Cream
- Stir in the heavy cream and gently heat through without boiling.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- Pair with a side salad for a balanced meal.
- Top with croutons or crispy fried onions for added texture.
- Add a drizzle of truffle oil for an elevated flavor.
- Serve with a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting combo.
Cooking Tips
- For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.
- To intensify the mushroom flavor, add a splash of dry white wine during the cooking process.
- Use a mix of mushroom varieties for a more complex flavor profile.
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches.
Nutritional Benefits
- Mushrooms are low in calories and high in antioxidants and B vitamins.
- Vegetable broth provides hydration and essential minerals.
- Adding heavy cream gives the soup a satisfying richness while offering calcium.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Uses vegetable broth and no meat products.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, as it contains no flour or gluten ingredients.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
Storage
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- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and comforting, perfect for cold weather.
- Simple ingredients come together to create a sophisticated flavor.
- Versatile enough to serve as a starter or main course.
- Customizable for different dietary preferences.
Conclusion
This creamy mushroom soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a velvety texture and deep earthy flavors. It’s quick to prepare yet feels luxurious enough for special occasions. Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy dinner or a starter for a larger meal, this soup is sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use canned mushrooms instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh mushrooms provide a richer flavor and better texture. - What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Coconut milk, cashew cream, or even whole milk can be used as substitutes. - Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, use plant-based butter and cream substitutes, and ensure the vegetable broth is vegan. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months, but avoid adding cream before freezing. - What other herbs can I use?
Rosemary, sage, or parsley can be added for different flavor profiles. - Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, carrots, leeks, or celery can be added for extra flavor and nutrients. - Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as written, it is naturally gluten-free. - How can I make the soup thicker?
Add a small amount of cornstarch slurry or cook it longer to reduce the liquid. - What’s the best way to reheat the soup?
Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid curdling the cream.