This Mushroom Soup is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for any season. Rich in flavor and packed with nutritious vegetables, it makes for a hearty meal that’s both delicious and wholesome. The fragrant croutons add a delightful crunch, making this soup an all-time favorite.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 onion
- 1 celery stalk
- 1 leek
- 1 carrot
- 1 red pepper
- 2 potatoes
- 150g mushrooms
- Olive oil
- 1 garlic clove
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Red pepper
- Parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Chop the onion, celery, leek, carrot, red pepper, and potatoes.
- Clean and slice the mushrooms.
- Cooking the Soup:
- In a large pot, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, celery, leek, carrot, and red pepper. Sauté until they begin to soften.
- Add the potatoes and continue to cook for a few minutes.
- Add the garlic and mushrooms, and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Season and Simmer:
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper to taste.
- Pour in enough water to cover the vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until all vegetables are tender.
- Blend the Soup:
- Using a mixer or immersion blender, blend the soup slightly, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Add the remaining mushrooms and cook the soup for another 10 minutes.
- Finishing Touches:
- Stir in chopped parsley. Mix well.
- The soup is now ready to serve!
For the Croutons
- 3 slices of bread
- Olive oil
- Red pepper
- Italian herbs
- Prepare the Croutons:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Cut the bread into cubes.
- Toss the bread cubes with olive oil, red pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Bake:
- Spread the seasoned bread cubes on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.
- Serve:
- Serve the croutons alongside the mushroom soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mushroom Soup with a side of fresh green salad and a light vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich or a slice of crusty bread.
Cooking Tips
- Use fresh mushrooms for the best flavor. You can mix different types of mushrooms like button, cremini, or shiitake for added depth.
- Don’t over-blend the soup; leave some vegetable chunks for a satisfying texture.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste. Add a pinch of nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth.
Nutritional Benefits
This Mushroom Soup is packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, providing a healthy dose of fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients. Mushrooms are low in calories but high in protein, making this soup a nutritious option.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free (without croutons)
- Dairy-Free
- Low-Calorie
Storage
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The croutons can be stored in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for beginners.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and mushrooms, this soup is a wholesome meal.
- Comforting and Delicious: The rich, savory flavors and fragrant croutons make this soup a cozy comfort food.
- Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or main course.
Conclusion
This Mushroom Soup with fragrant croutons is a must-try recipe that combines simplicity with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious meal or a comforting dish, this soup has it all. Enjoy the delicious taste and health benefits of this wonderful recipe. Bon appétit!