Mushroom Soup Recipe

Perfect as a starter for a fancy meal or a quick fix for a cozy evening, this Mushroom Soup Recipe showcases the richness and versatility of mushrooms. With its pale beige hue and delightful umami taste, Mushroom Soup appeals to the senses and warms the soul.

The beauty of this Mushroom Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Using easily accessible ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the culinary world, this Mushroom Soup Recipe will help you master the art of making Mushroom Soup.

Explore the possibilities with this Mushroom Soup Recipe and let it become your go-to dish for comfort and sophistication.

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking: 25 minutes
• Total Time: ~40 minutes

For the Soup Base:

• Button Mushrooms – 400 grams (~14 oz)
  • Calories: ~88 calories
• Butter – 2 tablespoons (~30g)
  • Calories: ~204 calories
• Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon (~15ml)
  • Calories: ~120 calories
• Garlic Cloves (minced) – 3-4
  • Calories: ~18 calories
• Onion (chopped) – 1 medium (~100g)
  • Calories: ~40 calories
• Vegetable Stock – 4 cups (~1 liter)
  • Calories: ~60 calories
• Heavy Cream – 1/2 cup (~120ml)
  • Calories: ~400 calories
• Salt – To taste
  • Calories: 0 calories
• Black Pepper (freshly ground) – To taste
  • Calories: 0 calories
• Thyme (dried or fresh) – 1 teaspoon
  • Calories: ~2 calories
• Flour (optional, for thickening) – 1 tablespoon (~10g)
  • Calories: ~36 calories

For Garnishing:

• Fresh Parsley (chopped) – 2 tablespoons (~10g)
  • Calories: ~4 calories
• Croutons – 1/2 cup (~30g)
  • Calories: ~120 calories
• Extra Cream (drizzled) – 2 tablespoons (~30ml)
  • Calories: ~100 calories

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Clean and Slice Mushrooms: Rinse the mushrooms thoroughly and pat them dry. Slice them evenly for consistent cooking.
• Chop Vegetables: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.

2. Sauté the Base

• Heat the Fat: In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. This combination prevents the butter from burning and adds a depth of flavor.
• Sauté Aromatics: Add the garlic and onion. Cook until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Cook the Mushrooms

• Add Mushrooms: Stir in the sliced mushrooms. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and turn golden brown.
• Season: Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and thyme for flavor.

4. Prepare the Soup Base

• Optional Thickener: If you prefer a thicker soup, sprinkle flour over the cooked mushrooms. Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
• Add Stock: Gradually pour in the vegetable stock while stirring. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

5. Blend the Soup

• Cool Slightly: Let the soup cool for 5 minutes before blending to avoid accidents.
• Blend Smoothly: Using an immersion blender or a countertop blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunky texture, blend only a portion of the soup.

6. Add Cream and Adjust Seasoning

• Incorporate Cream: Stir in the heavy cream for a luxurious texture. Heat gently but do not boil.
• Taste and Adjust: Check for seasoning and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed.

7. Serve and Garnish

• Pour and Decorate: Ladle the soup into bowls. Drizzle extra cream on top for a decorative swirl.
• Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and croutons for added texture and flavor.

• Button Mushrooms: ~88 calories
• Butter and Olive Oil: ~324 calories
• Garlic and Onion: ~58 calories
• Vegetable Stock: ~60 calories
• Heavy Cream: ~400 calories
• Flour (optional): ~36 calories
• Garnishing: ~224 calories
• Total Calories: ~1,190 calories (serves 4, ~298 calories per serving)

Perfect Texture

The combination of mushrooms and cream creates a velvety texture that’s both rich and comforting. The optional flour thickens the soup beautifully without overpowering the flavors.

Rich Flavor

The garlic, thyme, and buttery mushrooms create a deeply satisfying umami flavor profile, making this soup a true delight for the taste buds.

Customizable

You can substitute cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version or add spinach for a nutritional boost. Adjust the seasoning to your liking for a personalized touch.

Simple Yet Elegant

This recipe strikes a balance between ease of preparation and impressive presentation, making it suitable for both casual meals and formal gatherings.

FAQs

Can I use different mushrooms?

Yes, you can use a mix of cremini, shiitake, or portobello mushrooms for a more complex flavor.

Can I store Mushroom Soup?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of stock or water if it thickens.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Replace butter with olive oil, heavy cream with coconut milk, and use vegetable stock for a fully vegan version.

What if my soup is too thin?

Simmer it for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water for quick thickening.

Can I freeze Mushroom Soup?

Yes, but do so before adding the cream. Freeze in portions, and stir in fresh cream when reheating for the best texture.

How can I enhance the flavor?

A splash of white wine or a pinch of nutmeg can elevate the taste further.