If you crave a warm, comforting dish, look no further. This Cream of Mushroom Soup recipe is rich, flavorful, and easy to make. With simple ingredients like fresh mushrooms and herbs, you’ll create a pot of bliss in no time. Whether you want a classic version or need vegan options, this recipe has you covered. Ready to dive into the delicious world of mushroom soup? Let’s get started!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: This soup has a delightful creamy texture that makes each spoonful feel indulgent and comforting.
- Earthy Flavors: The combination of wild mushrooms brings a depth of flavor that transports you to a cozy forest setting.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite mushrooms or make it dairy-free, allowing for personal touches.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 500g mixed wild mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, oyster), chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
The main ingredients create a rich base for the soup. Olive oil and butter add depth to flavors. Chopped onion and minced garlic bring warmth and aroma. Mixed wild mushrooms give the soup its unique taste. I love using shiitake, cremini, and oyster mushrooms together. They offer a variety of textures and flavors.
Thyme enhances the earthy notes of mushrooms. Vegetable broth forms the heart of the soup. Cream adds a silky richness, while lemon juice brightens the dish. The fresh thyme sprigs make a lovely finish.
Optional Ingredients
- Variations for vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie options
You can adjust the recipe to fit your needs. For a vegan soup, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Choose a gluten-free broth if needed. To lower calories, cut down on cream and add more broth. These choices keep the soup tasty while meeting dietary needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a pot.
- Once melted, add 1 medium onion, finely chopped. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Cooking Steps
- Add 500g of mixed wild mushrooms, like shiitake, cremini, and oyster, and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme. Cook until the mushrooms soften, about 8-10 minutes.
- Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, be careful when blending in batches.
Final Touches
- Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Heat through and season with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme sprigs. Enjoy the rich and flavorful taste!
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
To take your cream of mushroom soup to the next level, consider these tips:
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.
- Stir in fresh parsley or chives for brightness.
- A splash of sherry or white wine can deepen the flavor.
For garnishes, try:
- Croutons for crunch.
- A drizzle of truffle oil for luxury.
- Extra thyme leaves for a fresh touch.
Cooking Techniques
Using an immersion blender makes blending easy. Here’s how:
- Insert the blender into the pot.
- Blend until smooth, moving it around the pot.
If using a regular blender, remember these tips:
- Allow the soup to cool slightly.
- Blend in small batches for safety.
To adjust the soup's thickness:
- For a thicker soup, blend longer or add more cream.
- To thin it out, add a bit more vegetable broth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Watch out for these common mistakes:
- Overcooking mushrooms can make them rubbery. Cook just until soft.
- Not seasoning properly can dull the flavor. Taste and adjust as needed.
By following these tips and avoiding mistakes, you can create a rich and flavorful soup that impresses everyone.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh wild mushrooms offer the best flavor and texture. Avoid canned mushrooms for a richer taste.
- Blend for Creaminess: For a super creamy texture, blend the soup thoroughly. An immersion blender works best for this.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more vegetable broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley before serving adds a burst of color and enhances the flavor.
Variations
Vegan Version
To make a vegan version of cream of mushroom soup, swap a few key ingredients. Here’s what you need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 500g mixed wild mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, oyster), chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream. This keeps it rich and adds a hint of sweetness. The rest of the recipe stays the same, but always check labels to ensure your broth is vegan-friendly.
Gluten-Free Version
To keep the soup gluten-free, use a gluten-free vegetable broth. Most brands are safe, but always read the label. Here are tips to follow:
- Avoid adding any flour or thickeners that contain gluten.
- Make sure other ingredients like seasonings are gluten-free.
- If you want a thicker soup, blend more of the mushrooms or add more cream.
Creative Add-ins
Feel free to get creative with your soup! Here are some fun add-ins:
- Spinach: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach near the end for color and nutrients.
- Bacon: Cook some bacon until crispy, then crumble it on top as a savory garnish.
- Herbs: Add fresh parsley or chives for a fresh bite.
- Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan can add a nice salty finish.
Mix and match these add-ins to make the soup your own!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftover soup, first let it cool. Pour it into an airtight container. Make sure it's sealed tight. Place it in the fridge. This keeps it fresh for up to three days. When you want to eat it, just reheat on the stove.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze the soup, let it cool completely. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. Label the bags with the date. To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge. Then, warm it gently on the stove. Stir often to keep the flavor intact.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, the soup lasts about three days. If you freeze it, it can stay good for up to three months. After that, the taste may fade. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.
FAQs
How long does homemade cream of mushroom soup last?
Homemade cream of mushroom soup lasts about 4 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in a sealed container. This helps keep it fresh and tasty. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. The soup can stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Can I substitute fresh mushrooms with canned ones?
Yes, you can use canned mushrooms instead of fresh ones. However, canned mushrooms have a different texture and flavor. They may not be as rich as fresh mushrooms. If you use canned mushrooms, rinse them well before adding them to your soup. This helps remove excess salt and improves the taste.
What can I serve with cream of mushroom soup?
Cream of mushroom soup pairs great with many dishes. Here are some tasty ideas:
- Grilled cheese sandwiches
- Crusty bread or baguette
- Salad with fresh greens
- Roasted vegetables
These sides add more flavor and texture to your meal.
Is cream of mushroom soup healthy?
Cream of mushroom soup can be healthy, but it depends on the ingredients. It contains mushrooms, which are rich in vitamins and minerals. However, using heavy cream adds fat and calories. For a healthier version, you can use coconut cream or low-fat milk. This keeps the flavor while making it lighter.
How to make it less creamy or more broth-based?
To make your soup less creamy, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream. Start with half a cup instead of a full cup. You can also add more vegetable broth to increase the soup's volume. If you want a broth-based soup, skip the cream altogether. Blend the mushrooms with broth for a delicious, lighter soup.
This blog showed how to make a rich cream of mushroom soup. I covered key ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips. You can even try vegan and gluten-free versions. Remember to avoid common mistakes to get the best flavor. Store any leftovers properly for future meals. Soup can be a warm and delightful treat. Enjoy experimenting with add-ins and variations to suit your taste. With this recipe, you can impress anyone at your next meal. Happy cooking!
