Mushroom Soup with Tuna and Homemade Croutons

This hearty mushroom soup is a perfect combination of savory ingredients like tuna, vegetables, and a rich egg-cream mixture. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s warm and comforting, especially when paired with freshly baked croutons. With a creamy texture and the flavorful touch of Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs, this soup will satisfy your hunger and warm your soul.

Preparation Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 carrot, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 hot pepper, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Thyme, to taste
  • 1 can of canned tuna
  • 3 potatoes, diced
  • Water (enough to fill the pot)
  • 1 egg (separated)
  • 100 ml (⅓ cup) cream
  • Parmesan cheese, grated (to taste)
  • Fresh dill, for garnish
  • 3 slices of bread
  • Olive oil
  • Salt, red pepper, and Italian herbs (for croutons)

Directions

  1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and peppers until softened.
  2. Add salt, black pepper, and thyme for seasoning.
  3. Stir in the canned tuna and diced potatoes.
  4. Fill the pot with water, cover with a lid, and bring to a boil. Let the soup cook until the potatoes are tender.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolk and cream together. Slowly mix in the egg white.
  6. Add the egg and cream mixture to the soup, stirring well. Let it cook for an additional 10 minutes on low heat.
  7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh dill. Your soup is ready!

Crouton Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Drizzle the bread slices with olive oil and season with salt, red pepper, and Italian herbs.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until crispy.
  4. Serve the croutons with the soup.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve hot with croutons on the side for dipping.
  • Top with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor.

Cooking Tips

  • You can substitute fresh mushrooms for canned tuna if you prefer a fully vegetarian soup.
  • If you like extra heat, keep the seeds in the hot pepper or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Adjust the amount of water depending on how thick or thin you want the soup to be.

Nutritional Benefits

  • This soup is rich in protein from the tuna and egg.
  • Potatoes provide a good source of complex carbohydrates for energy.
  • The inclusion of vegetables adds essential vitamins and minerals to the dish.

Dietary Information

  • This recipe is high in protein and can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free bread for the croutons.
  • For a dairy-free version, omit the cream and Parmesan and substitute with a plant-based alternative.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 18g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sodium: 450mg

Storage

  • Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Croutons can be stored separately at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • It’s a unique blend of creamy soup and savory tuna, offering a fresh take on traditional mushroom soup.
  • The addition of homemade croutons adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
  • Easy to make and packed with flavor, this soup is both satisfying and comforting.
  • The egg-cream mixture makes the soup creamy without being overly rich.

Conclusion
This mushroom soup with tuna and croutons is a wholesome and satisfying meal that brings warmth and comfort. The combination of tender vegetables, tuna, and creamy broth makes it a standout dish for any occasion. Paired with crispy, herb-infused croutons, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s simple to make, full of flavor, and perfect for lunch or dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned tuna?
    Yes, fresh mushrooms would be a great substitute for a vegetarian version of this soup.
  2. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
    Yes, you can use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and omit the Parmesan.
  3. How can I store leftover croutons?
    Keep croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  4. Can I skip the egg in this recipe?
    Yes, you can skip the egg if preferred, but it adds richness and creaminess to the soup.
  5. Can I use different herbs instead of thyme?
    Absolutely! You can use rosemary, basil, or parsley depending on your flavor preferences.
  6. What type of bread is best for croutons?
    Any type of crusty bread, such as a baguette or sourdough, will work well for croutons.
  7. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
    Yes, sweet potatoes can be a tasty and nutritious alternative in this soup.
  8. How long does this soup last in the fridge?
    The soup will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in the refrigerator.
  9. Can I freeze this soup?
    Yes, you can freeze the soup without the croutons for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
  10. What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
    You can substitute