Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

• Start by cleaning and slicing the mushrooms. You can simply wipe them with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt, then slice them thinly to ensure they cook quickly and evenly.
• Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic.
• Measure out your broth and cream, and have your herbs ready.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
• Add the garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. Cook the Mushrooms:

• Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot, along with the dried thyme, and sauté for about 8–10 minutes, or until the mushrooms release their moisture and become golden brown. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly.
• Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

4. Add the Broth:

• Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow the soup to cook for about 10–15 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the mushrooms soften even further.

5. Blend the Soup:

• Once the mushrooms are fully cooked and tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending, as hot liquids can splash and cause burns.
• Blend until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a bit of texture, you can pulse the soup a few times to leave some mushroom bits intact.

6. Add the Cream:

• After blending, return the soup to a low heat and stir in the heavy cream. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if necessary. You can add more cream for an extra luxurious texture or to tone down any sharpness from the mushrooms.
• Simmer for another 5–7 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken slightly.

7. Serve and Garnish:

• Ladle the creamy mushroom soup into bowls and garnish with a swirl of cream, a few fresh thyme leaves, or chopped parsley. For an added crunch, you can sprinkle some homemade croutons or toasted nuts on top.

Tips for the Best Creamy Mushroom Soup:

• Mushroom Variety: Using a mix of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, or portobello, can deepen the flavor of the soup. Different varieties offer a range of textures and tastes, from mild to earthy.
• Blending Options: If you prefer a chunkier texture, only blend part of the soup and leave the rest in pieces. Alternatively, for a smoother soup, blend everything until velvety.
• Make it Vegan: Swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and swap the butter for olive oil or a plant-based butter.
• Flavor Enhancers: A splash of white wine or a dash of soy sauce can add depth and complexity to the soup. Fresh herbs like rosemary or sage can also be used for additional aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Mushroom Soup:

• Comforting and Hearty: The combination of mushrooms and cream creates a bowl of warmth and satisfaction.
• Customizable: The recipe is easily adaptable, whether you prefer a more robust flavor, a vegan version, or additional ingredients like truffle oil or Parmesan cheese.
• Quick and Easy: Despite its rich, comforting nature, this soup is straightforward to prepare, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or meal prep.