Golden Magic in a Bowl: Discover the Perfect Mushroom Soup
Rich and delicious mushroom soup is surprisingly satisfying to enjoy any time of year. It's a hearty soup recipe that's made in just one pot, and is perfect to prepare in 30 minutes, even on a busy workday. . Here you'll find step-by-step instructions and photos, along with a video, for making my delicious, creamy, absolutely delightful Mushroom Soup.
About Cream of Mushroom Soup
As a family, we love soup It doesn't matter if it's cold or hot outside, there are great and delicious soup recipes that are perfect for any season!
Today I am sharing with you another classic homemade soup recipe that we all love, Cream of Mushroom Soup. This naturally vegetarian dish is hearty, rich and full of deep umami flavors It is topped with fresh herbs and served as a side or main dish!
How To Make the Perfect Mushroom Soup
Gather your ingredients:
1 pound (450g) of fresh mushrooms (any variety you prefer)
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
4 cups (1 liter) of vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup (240ml) of heavy cream
2 tablespoons of butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for garnish
Prepare the mushrooms:
Clean the mushrooms using a damp paper towel to remove any dirt or debris.
Slice the mushrooms into thin pieces or chop them, depending on your preference. Set aside.
Sauté the onions and garlic:
Heat the butter in a large pot or saucepan over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant, usually around 5 minutes.
Cook the mushrooms:
Add the sliced or chopped mushrooms to the pot with the onions and garlic.
Cook the mushrooms until they release their moisture and start to brown, typically for about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Simmer with broth:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth into the pot, covering the mushrooms completely.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Blend the soup (optional):
If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Blend until you reach your desired consistency. Be cautious with hot liquids in blenders to prevent accidents.
Add cream and season:
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to incorporate it into the soup.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serve:
Ladle the mushroom soup into bowls.
Garnish with fresh herbs, such as thyme or parsley, if desired.
Enjoy your homemade mushroom soup!
What to serve with Mushroom Soup
Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread: Serve warm slices of crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. It's perfect for dipping into the soup and adds a delightful crunch.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy mushroom soup. Consider a mixed greens salad, Caesar salad, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic combination of grilled cheese and soup is always a crowd-pleaser. Prepare a crispy grilled cheese sandwich with your choice of cheese and enjoy the comforting combination.
Savory Tart: Serve a savory tart alongside the mushroom soup. Options like quiche, mushroom and cheese tart, or a vegetable tart can add extra flavors and textures to the meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or butternut squash, can provide a hearty and satisfying side dish that complements the earthy flavors of the mushroom soup.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Double up on the mushroom goodness by serving stuffed mushrooms as a side dish. Fill mushroom caps with a delicious mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, herbs, and other savory ingredients, then bake until golden and tender.
Grilled or Pan-Seared Protein: If you're looking for a heartier meal, pair the mushroom soup with grilled or pan-seared protein such as chicken, steak, or fish. The flavors of the protein can harmonize well with the soup.
Roasted Potatoes: Roasted potatoes, whether crispy wedges or creamy mashed potatoes, can add a comforting and satisfying element to the meal.
Bruschetta: Top slices of toasted baguette with diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze or olive oil for a light and flavorful accompaniment to the soup.
Charcuterie and Cheese Board: For a more substantial option, serve a charcuterie and cheese board with an assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, pickles, and bread. The variety of flavors and textures can complement the creamy mushroom soup.
Remember to consider your personal preferences and dietary restrictions when choosing what to serve with mushroom soup. These suggestions are meant to inspire you and enhance your dining experience. Enjoy your meal!
FAQs
Can I use different types of mushrooms in mushroom soup?
Yes, absolutely! You can use a variety of mushrooms, such as button mushrooms, cremini mushrooms, portobello mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, or a combination of different types. Each mushroom variety adds its own unique flavor and texture to the soup.
Can I make mushroom soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make mushroom soup ahead of time. Prepare the soup as instructed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.
Can I freeze mushroom soup?
Yes, you can freeze mushroom soup. However, cream-based soups like cream of mushroom soup may have a change in texture when thawed and reheated. It's best to freeze the soup without the addition of cream and add it after thawing and reheating. Freeze the soup in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
Can I make mushroom soup without cream?
Yes, if you prefer a lighter version, you can make mushroom soup without cream. You can substitute the cream with milk, vegetable broth, or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or coconut milk. This will result in a lighter and less rich soup, but still delicious.
Can I make mushroom soup gluten-free?
Yes, you can make mushroom soup gluten-free by using gluten-free flour or a thickener like cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour. Ensure that the broth and other ingredients you use are also gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables to mushroom soup?
Certainly! While mushroom soup traditionally focuses on the flavor of mushrooms, you can add other vegetables to enhance the soup. For example, you can include diced carrots, celery, or leeks for added texture and flavor.
How can I add extra flavor to mushroom soup?
You can enhance the flavor of mushroom soup by incorporating additional ingredients like fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley), a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce, a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, or even a hint of truffle oil.
Can I make a vegan or dairy-free mushroom soup?
Yes, you can make a vegan or dairy-free mushroom soup by omitting the use of dairy products. Replace the butter with plant-based oil or vegan butter, and substitute the cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream.
Remember to adapt recipes to your specific dietary preferences and always check ingredient labels for allergens or dietary restrictions.
Recipe Card
Nutrition
The nutritional values of mushroom soup can vary depending on the specific ingredients and recipe used. Here is a general overview of the approximate nutritional information for a serving (1 cup) of mushroom soup:
Calories: 100-150 calories
Fat: 7-10 grams
Carbohydrates: 8-12 grams
Protein: 3-5 grams
Fiber: 1-2 grams
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and preparation method used. It's always a good idea to refer to the specific recipe and ingredient labels for accurate nutritional information.
