Cream of Mushroom Soup: Comforting and Rich with a Hint of Fresh Herbs

This creamy mushroom soup is the perfect blend of earthy mushrooms, fragrant garlic, and a touch of thyme, resulting in a cozy, flavorful bowl of goodness. The classic roux thickens it just right, while a touch of heavy cream brings everything together in a deliciously silky texture. Serve it with crusty bread or a light side salad for a satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep Mushroom Flavor: Using a mix of mushrooms enhances the earthy, rich flavor of the soup.
• Perfect Texture: The soup can be left chunky or blended for a smooth texture, making it versatile to your preference.
• Quick to Make: Ready in just 40 minutes, this soup is ideal for both quick weeknight dinners and leisurely weekend meals.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix), sliced
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and begin to brown.

Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic

2. Stir in the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Make a Roux

3. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture, stirring well to combine. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

4. Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes until the soup starts to thicken.

Step 5: Add Cream and Seasonings

5. Stir in the heavy cream and dried thyme, then season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 6: Blend (Optional)

6. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree the soup, leaving some mushroom chunks if you like a bit of texture.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

7. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot for cooking the soup
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Immersion blender (optional) for blending the soup

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving Suggestions: Serve with crusty bread, a drizzle of truffle oil, or a sprinkle of extra thyme for an elevated finish.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well without the cream. Freeze it before adding the cream, then thaw, reheat, and stir in the cream for best results.

Variations

• Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that still has a creamy texture.
• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken or sautéed tofu cubes for added protein.
• Herb Variations: Add fresh rosemary or sage along with thyme for a more herbal flavor.

Helpful Tips

• Choosing Mushrooms: Cremini, button, and shiitake mushrooms each add unique flavors; use a mix for a more complex soup.
• Consistent Stirring: Stir regularly when adding flour and liquids to prevent lumps and create a smooth base.
• For Extra Thickness: Simmer a few minutes longer or add another tablespoon of flour if a thicker soup is desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dried mushrooms?
Yes, dried mushrooms add a deep, earthy flavor. Rehydrate them in warm water, chop, and add them along with the soaking liquid (strained) for extra flavor.

2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
For a lighter version, try half-and-half, milk, or even Greek yogurt (added off the heat to avoid curdling).

3. How can I make this soup vegan?
Use vegetable broth, replace butter with olive oil, and swap heavy cream with coconut or cashew cream.

4. Can I add wine?
Yes, a splash of white wine added after sautéing the mushrooms enhances flavor beautifully. Just let it cook down before adding the broth.

5. How can I make this soup richer?
For extra richness, add an additional tablespoon of butter or a few dollops of sour cream just before serving.

This Cream of Mushroom Soup is all about warmth, comfort, and rich flavors that celebrate the earthy, savory goodness of mushrooms. Enjoy it as a cozy starter, or pair it with a hearty sandwich for a deliciously complete meal!

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