Creamy Mushroom Soup

Looking for the perfect comforting dish for a cold winter night, or an elegant starter for a refined dinner? Creamy mushroom soup is the ideal choice. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it will delight mushroom lovers and anyone craving a silky, delicious bowl of soup. Let’s dive into this must-try recipe!

Ingredients for Creamy Mushroom Soup

Serves 4:

• 500 g (about 1 lb) fresh button mushrooms (or a mix of wild mushrooms)

• 1 yellow onion

• 2 garlic cloves

• 30 g butter (about 2 tablespoons)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 500 ml (2 cups) chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)

• 250 ml (1 cup) heavy cream

• 100 ml (about 1/2 cup) whole milk

• 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)

• A few sprigs of fresh thyme

• Salt and freshly ground pepper

• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Necessary Kitchen Tools

• A large pot or Dutch oven

• Sharp knife

• Cutting board

• Wooden spoon

• Hand blender (or a countertop blender for extra-smooth texture)

• Ladle

How to Make Creamy Mushroom Soup

 Prepare the ingredients

• Gently clean the mushrooms with a soft brush or damp cloth (avoid soaking them to preserve their flavor).

• Thinly slice the mushrooms, onion, and garlic.

 Sauté the vegetables

• Heat the butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

• Add the sliced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until soft and translucent.

• Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

 Cook the mushrooms

• Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot.

• Sauté for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and their liquid has evaporated.

 Build the soup base

If desired, sprinkle in the flour to help thicken the soup and stir well.

Pour in the hot broth and add the thyme sprigs.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, covered.

 Blend the soup

Remove the thyme sprigs.

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and velvety.

If using a countertop blender, blend in batches to avoid splattering.

 Add the creamy finish

Stir in the heavy cream and milk.

Heat gently for about 5 minutes — do not boil.

 Season and serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Mushroom Soup

Use a variety of mushrooms: For a more complex flavor, combine different types like chanterelles, porcini, oyster mushrooms, or shiitake.

Add a splash of white wine: A small amount of dry white wine added while cooking the mushrooms enhances the flavor beautifully.

Adjust the texture: For an ultra-smooth finish, strain the blended soup through a fine mesh sieve.

Pairing ideas: Serve with homemade croutons, a slice of rustic grilled bread, or a light green salad for a complete meal.

Approximate Nutritional Information (per serving)

Note: Values may vary depending on the type of mushrooms and cream used.

Conclusion

Creamy mushroom soup is a simple, quick, and wonderfully indulgent dish that will warm hearts and bellies alike. Its rich, earthy flavor and silky texture make it an elegant starter or a satisfying light meal for any occasion.