Classic Creamy Mushroom Soup

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Classic Creamy Mushroom Soup: A Luxurious Comfort Classic

Ingredients

For the Flavor Base:

  • ½ cup butter (113g)
  • ¼ cup olive oil (60ml)
  • 1 pound mushrooms, sliced (450g) – a mix of cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms works wonderfully
  • 1 small onion, finely minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh)
  • Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Soup:

  • 3 cups chicken or vegetable stock (720ml)
  • 1½ cups heavy cream (360ml)
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for added thickness)
  • Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Mushrooms

  • Gently wipe mushrooms clean with a damp paper towel—avoid rinsing under water.
  • Slice uniformly to about ¼-inch thickness for even cooking.
  • In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
  • Sauté mushrooms in batches to ensure browning, not steaming. Cook until golden and most moisture has evaporated (about 8–10 minutes per batch).

2. Build the Aromatic Base

  • Add minced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  • Stir in garlic and thyme, cooking until fragrant (1–2 minutes).
  • Season with salt and freshly ground pepper.

3. Form the Soup Base

  • Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture, stirring well for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
  • Gradually pour in the stock, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  • Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

4. Finish with Cream

  • Reduce heat to low and slowly add in the heavy cream.
  • Simmer gently—do not boil—to preserve the cream’s smooth texture.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning.
  • For a smoother texture, blend part of the soup using an immersion blender.

Chef’s Tips for Success

  • Use a mix of mushrooms for complexity in flavor and texture.
  • Brown mushrooms properly by cooking in batches—this is key to deep flavor.
  • Avoid boiling the cream to keep it from curdling.
  • Optional twist: Add a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of Parmesan before serving for a gourmet touch.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 385
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fat: 38g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Sugar: 3g

(Recipe serves 6)

Storage & Reheating Tips

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm gently over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of stock or cream if needed to loosen the consistency.

What to Serve With It

Pair this creamy soup with:

  • Crusty artisanal bread or sourdough toast
  • A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette
  • Classic grilled cheese sandwiches
  • Crispy croutons or herbed roasted chickpeas for a crunchy garnish

Recipe Variations

  • Dairy-Free: Use olive oil instead of butter and replace cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.
  • Vegetarian: Use vegetable stock and add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for umami depth.
  • Chunky Version: Skip blending for a rustic texture.
  • Elevated Flavor: Add a few drops of truffle oil or finely chopped wild mushrooms.

This luxurious mushroom soup proves that with just a few quality ingredients and a little patience, you can transform humble mushrooms into a deeply comforting dish. Whether you enjoy it as a soul-warming starter or the star of your dinner table, this recipe is a timeless favorite that never disappoints.

 

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