Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe Introduction:
Cream of Mushroom Soup is a comforting, rich, and velvety soup made with earthy mushrooms and creamy ingredients. This classic dish is loved for its smooth texture and robust flavor, making it a perfect choice for cozy dinners or as a starter for elegant meals. Whether you enjoy it as a hearty bowl of soup on a chilly day or use it as an ingredient in casseroles and sauces, this homemade version far surpasses store-bought alternatives in both flavor and texture.
Recipe Overview:
This Cream of Mushroom Soup is made with fresh mushrooms, onions, garlic, and a blend of cream, broth, and seasonings. The soup is thickened with a roux (a mixture of butter and flour), which gives it that signature creamy consistency. You can use any type of mushroom, but button mushrooms or cremini are most commonly used in this recipe. The soup is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, as the flavors only get better with time.
Recipe Ingredients:
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz (225g) fresh mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix), sliced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Recipe Instructions:
In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add the garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender.
Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir well to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. This creates a roux, which helps thicken the soup.
Add the Broth and Simmer:
Gradually pour in the vegetable or chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken.
Blend the Soup:
Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until creamy.
Finish with Cream:
Stir in the heavy cream (or milk) and continue to cook for 5 more minutes on low heat. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using) to taste.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot.
Recipe Variations:
Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup: Substitute the butter with olive oil and use coconut milk or almond milk in place of the cream for a dairy-free version.
Add More Herbs: You can experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage to give the soup a unique flavor.
Mushroom Medley: For a deeper flavor, use a variety of mushrooms such as shiitake, portobello, and oyster mushrooms.
Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Soup: Add a handful of spinach to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions:
Serve the soup with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Top the soup with crispy fried onions or a drizzle of truffle oil for an extra touch of indulgence.
Garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a swirl of extra cream for an elegant finish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate):
Calories: 250-300
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Sugars: 6g
Recipe Conclusion:
Cream of Mushroom Soup is a rich and comforting dish that brings the natural earthiness of mushrooms into a creamy, savory bowl. It’s perfect for cozy evenings, and its smooth texture and comforting flavor make it an all-time favorite. You can adjust the creaminess or spice level to suit your preferences, and with various variations, it can easily be customized to suit different dietary needs. Whether you serve it as a standalone dish or as part of a larger meal, this classic soup will always be a hit.