Cream of Mushroom Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up with this creamy and comforting Cream of Mushroom Soup that's full of rich flavors and earthy aromas. Perfectly blended mushrooms create a velvety texture, making it an ideal starter or standalone dish for chilly days. This easy-to-follow recipe will have you savoring every spoonful, and it's a wonderful way to elevate your soup game and impress guests at dinner parties.
This Cream of Mushroom Soup recipe has been passed down through generations. It brings warmth and comfort, perfect for chilly evenings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, earthy flavors
- Velvety smooth texture
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Perfect for entertaining
The Health Benefits of Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a fantastic addition to any diet, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote good health. They are low in calories and high in essential nutrients like B vitamins, selenium, and potassium. The presence of beta-glucans in mushrooms also supports immune function, making them a great food choice for maintaining overall health.
Rich in fiber, mushrooms contribute significantly to digestive health, helping to keep your gut functioning smoothly. Their unique composition may even aid in weight management by promoting feelings of fullness. Including mushrooms in your meals can thus be a delicious and nutritious way to support your wellness goals.
Perfect Pairings for Your Soup
Cream of Mushroom Soup is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a wholesome meal, serve it alongside a fresh, green salad or a crusty baguette. The creamy texture of the soup complements the crispness of the salad and the chewy crunch of the bread, creating a satisfying dining experience.
For a heartier option, consider pairing this soup with a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich or a savory quiche. These combinations elevate your soup into a truly delightful meal, perfect for lunch or a cozy dinner, making it ideal for both casual family gatherings and elegant dinner parties.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, you can store your Cream of Mushroom Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. Just remember to let it cool completely before storing it to prevent any condensation.
When it comes time to enjoy your leftovers, reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency before serving. Enjoy the rich flavors all over again!
Ingredients
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Gather all ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience.
Instructions
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Mushrooms
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their moisture.
Add the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, and then reduce the heat to simmer for 15 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, let cool slightly and blend in batches using a countertop blender.
Add Cream and Season
Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
Choosing the Right Mushrooms
When making Cream of Mushroom Soup, selecting the right mushrooms can significantly enhance the flavor profile. While various mushrooms can be used, common choices include button mushrooms for their mild taste and shiitake mushrooms for a deeper, more complex flavor. For an extra gourmet touch, you could even incorporate wild mushrooms like chanterelles or morels.
Regardless of your choice, ensure that the mushrooms are fresh and firm. Avoid any that look slimy or have dark spots, as these can detract from the soup's quality. Cleaning mushrooms is simple; just wipe them with a damp cloth, avoiding soaking them in water to preserve their texture.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the great things about Cream of Mushroom Soup is its versatility; you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can bring a welcome kick to the creamy base.
Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices as well. Fresh thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic depth, while a splash of white wine can provide an extra layer of flavor. Don't hesitate to make this soup your own by highlighting ingredients that you love!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use dried mushrooms instead?
Yes, but rehydrate them before use for the best flavor.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Cream of Mushroom Soup
Warm up with this creamy and comforting Cream of Mushroom Soup that's full of rich flavors and earthy aromas. Perfectly blended mushrooms create a velvety texture, making it an ideal starter or standalone dish for chilly days. This easy-to-follow recipe will have you savoring every spoonful, and it's a wonderful way to elevate your soup game and impress guests at dinner parties.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their moisture.
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, and then reduce the heat to simmer for 15 minutes.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, let cool slightly and blend in batches using a countertop blender.
Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 18g