Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe
This rich and velvety mushroom soup is perfect for chilly evenings, offering a comforting blend of earthy mushrooms, aromatic herbs, and creamy goodness. Whether served as a starter or a main course, it’s a delightful way to warm up.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 lb sliced mushrooms (e.g., portobello, cremini, button, or a mix)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
1. Sauté the Mushrooms
- Heat the butter and olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms brown and release their juices.
2. Build the Flavor
- Stir in the minced onion and cook for 5 minutes, until softened.
- Add the garlic and thyme, and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Thicken with a Roux (Optional)
- Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a light roux.
4. Add Broth
- Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable stock while stirring to combine.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Blend for Creaminess (Optional)
- For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender or transfer part of the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
6. Add Cream
- Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, heating gently without bringing the soup to a boil. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Add a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an elevated twist.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Rich and Flavorful: Earthy mushrooms and aromatic thyme create a deeply satisfying flavor.
- Customizable: Blend to your desired consistency or keep it chunky for a hearty texture.
- Comfort in a Bowl: Perfect for cold weather or when you need a cozy pick-me-up.
Enjoy this creamy mushroom soup as a comforting classic that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!