Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe
This Creamy Mushroom Soup is the ultimate comfort food, boasting a velvety texture and rich, earthy flavors. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy dinner or as a gourmet starter.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs mushrooms (cremini, button, or a mix), sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp thyme (fresh or dried)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms
- Heat 2 tablespoons butter and 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the sliced mushrooms, season with a pinch of salt, and sauté for 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to develop a golden-brown color.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
- Add the diced onions to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Broth
- Pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth.
- Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook gently for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Blend or Leave Chunky
- Decide on your preferred texture:
- For a chunky soup, skip this step and move to the next.
- For a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture directly in the pot, or carefully transfer it to a blender in batches.
Step 5: Add the Cream
- Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper, if needed.
Step 6: Serve
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh dill or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Tips for Success
- Mushroom Selection: Use a combination of cremini, button, and even shiitake mushrooms for a deeper flavor.
- For a Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with plant-based alternatives, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and choose vegetable broth.
- Thicker Soup: For a thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir into the soup during the last simmer.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete meal.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan or drizzle with truffle oil for an indulgent touch.
Enjoy this Creamy Mushroom Soup as a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant addition to a dinner party menu!