Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe

This creamy mushroom soup is the epitome of comfort food. It’s velvety, rich, and full of savory mushroom flavor, making it the perfect dish for cold days or when you’re craving something cozy and satisfying. With a simple base of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and onions, combined with cream and broth, this soup is easy to make and incredibly flavorful. Serve it as an appetizer or enjoy it as a light meal paired with crusty bread.

Equipment:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board
• Immersion blender or regular blender (optional)

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb fresh mushrooms (such as cremini or white button), sliced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon flour (for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics
   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 cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Cook the Mushrooms
   Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, for 7-10 minutes until the mushrooms are browned and softened. If you like a thicker soup, you can sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of flour and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
3. Add Broth and Seasoning
   Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and add the thyme and bay leaf. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.
4. Blend the Soup
   Remove the bay leaf. If you prefer a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth, or transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Leave a few chunks of mushrooms for texture if desired.
5. Add Cream and Adjust Seasoning
   Return the soup to the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with warm, crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas:

• Serve in elegant bowls and top with a swirl of extra cream for a refined touch.
• Garnish with a drizzle of truffle oil or extra fresh herbs for an elevated flavor profile.
• Pair with a fresh baguette or croutons for added texture and flavor.

Tips:

• For a vegan version, swap the butter and cream for plant-based alternatives like olive oil and coconut cream.
• Add a splash of white wine while sautéing the mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
• This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated, as the flavors deepen after resting for a few hours.

This creamy mushroom soup is a deliciously rich and comforting dish, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as an appetizer or a cozy meal, the earthy flavors of the mushrooms combined with the creamy broth will leave you wanting more. Enjoy this easy, satisfying recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!