Creamy Mushroom Soup a Forest Floor Feast
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Fancy a bowl of something utterly comforting? Ever get that craving for something warm and earthy? This Creamy Mushroom Soup recipe is exactly what you need.
It’s like wrapping yourself in a big, mushroom flavoured hug.
Quick Hook
Do you adore mushrooms? Then you're in for a treat! This Creamy Mushroom Soup recipe is rich and full of earthy flavors. Honestly, it's a bowl of pure comfort.
Brief Overview
The Creamy Mushroom Soup is a classic, warming dish perfect for a cold day. It is easy to make and should only take about 55 minutes.
This recipe yields 4 servings. It is perfect for a light lunch or cosy supper.
Main Benefits
Mushrooms are known for their immune boosting properties. This Healthy Mushroom Soup is a delicious way to get those benefits. Serve this on a chilly evening, or as a starter to your Sunday roast.
What makes this soup special? The depth of flavour comes from slow sautéing the mushrooms to release all their goodness.
Craving a bowl of happiness? It's time to gather your ingredients.
What you need to make Mushroom Soup
This Easy Mushroom Soup recipe requires just a few simple ingredients. You will need olive oil, butter, onion, garlic, and of course, mushrooms! You'll also need vegetable stock, cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.
If you fancy something a bit different, why not try a Vegan Mushroom Soup Recipe ?
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Cooking!
Alright, let's talk about what you'll need for this Creamy Mushroom Soup . Honestly, it's pretty straightforward. You probably already have most of it! Trust me, it's worth it.
This Easy Mushroom Soup is a game changer!
Main Ingredients: The Forest's Bounty
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp (30ml) . Nothing fancy, just your everyday stuff.
- Butter: 50g (¼ cup) , unsalted. Quality butter makes a difference, so splurge a little if you can!
- Onion: 1 large (approx. 150g) , finely chopped. Yellow or white works best.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Don't be shy with the garlic!
- Mushrooms: 500g (1.1 lbs) , mixed, sliced. Chestnut, cremini, shiitake…go wild! I love using a mix for a deeper flavour.
- Dried Thyme: 1 tsp (or 1 tbsp fresh, chopped). Adds that earthy note we all crave.
- Vegetable Stock: 1.2 litre (5 cups) . Chicken stock works too for a richer flavour.
- Double Cream: 120ml (½ cup) . This is what makes it super creamy!
- Salt & Pepper : To taste. Season generously!
- Fresh Parsley : For garnish. Because presentation matters, innit?
Thinking about a Vegan Mushroom Soup Recipe ? Easy peasy. Just swap the butter for vegan butter, the double cream for coconut cream, and make sure your stock is veggie friendly!
Seasoning Notes: Secret Weapon Time!
Thyme is your best friend here. It pairs perfectly with mushrooms. A bay leaf thrown in while simmering adds a subtle depth. Try a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.
For a flavour boost, a splash of dry sherry or white wine after sautéing the mushrooms is amazing. Scrape up those browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
That's where the magic happens!
If you're feeling adventurous, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick. This Healthy Mushroom Soup can handle a little spice!
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: For cooking everything.
- Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: Obvious, really.
- Immersion Blender: (Optional). For a super smooth soup. You can use a regular blender in batches. But be careful when blending hot liquids. Honestly, sometimes I prefer the rustic texture without blending.
No fancy gadgets needed for this Simple Mushroom Soup Recipe . If you don't have an immersion blender, a potato masher works in a pinch for a chunkier Homemade Mushroom Soup .
Let me know what you think!
Cooking Method: Unleashing Mushroom Magic
Alright, let's talk Creamy Mushroom Soup . Forget those sad, watery soups you get in a tin. We're making the Best Mushroom Soup from scratch.
Honestly, it's easier than you think! It's like a warm hug on a cold day, a real taste of autumn.
Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place
First things first: the mise en place , innit? Chop your 1 large onion finely. Mince 2 cloves of garlic .
Slice up 500g of mixed mushrooms . I like using chestnut, cremini, and a few shiitake if I'm feeling fancy. Get your 1.
2 litre of vegetable stock ready. Measure out 120ml of double cream . You'll also need 2 tbsp of olive oil, 50g of butter, 1 tsp of dried thyme, salt, pepper, and parsley .
Chop the parsley for garnish. Trust me, getting everything prepped makes cooking a breeze.
step-by-step: Soup Symphony
- Heat the 2 tbsp olive oil and 50g butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes , until soft. Then add the garlic and cook for 1 minute .
- Toss in those gorgeous mushrooms and thyme. Cook for 10- 15 minutes , stirring occasionally. You want them nicely browned, not steamed.
- Pour in the stock, bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and cook for 20 minutes .
- Now, for the creamy part! Stir in the 120ml double cream . Season with salt and pepper. Heat through gently. Don't boil!
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley. Bob's your uncle!
Pro Tips for Homemade Mushroom Soup
Want to take your soup to the next level? A splash of dry sherry after sautéing the mushrooms adds a lovely depth.
Seriously, try it. Taste, taste, taste! Seasoning is key. Another one! Don't overcrowd the pan when sautéing the mushrooms. The Mushroom Soup should be a creamy experience for your mouth.
Recipe Notes: Making the Best Mushroom Soup Ever
Right, so you're about to make some Homemade Mushroom Soup . Ace! I want to share a few extra thoughts. Consider it a wee pep talk from your mate in the kitchen.
Honestly, it's all about the details.
Serving Like a Pro
Forget just slopping it in a bowl! For presentation, a swirl of cream does wonders. And a sprinkle of fresh parsley? Chef's kiss! Think about serving your Creamy Mushroom Soup Vegan style with some toasted sourdough for dipping.
Or, for a real treat, how about pairing it with a fancy grilled cheese sandwich? Heaven! I once served it in mini mugs at a dinner party.
Fancy, eh?
Storing Like a Boss
Leftovers? You're in luck! This Easy Mushroom Soup keeps for 3-4 days in the fridge. Just make sure it's in an airtight container.
Want to freeze it? Go for it! It lasts for up to 3 months . When reheating, do it gently on the hob.
You don't want to curdle the cream, yeah? If you are thinking to prepare a big batch of Cream of Mushroom Soup from Scratch and consume it for a longer period is best to freeze it.
Variations: Spice it Up or Slim it Down
Fancy a twist? If you want to make a Vegan Mushroom Soup Recipe , swap the butter for olive oil.
Use coconut cream instead of double cream. Easy peasy! For a Healthy Mushroom Soup , skip the cream altogether. You could even try adding some cooked Mushroom Quinoa for extra texture and protein.
Why not consider making Mushroom Quinoa Soup ? It's a personal favorite!
Nutrition Nuggets
Okay, so it's soup. It's not always diet food, right? But it is comforting. Mushrooms are packed with vitamins and minerals.
This Simple Mushroom Soup Recipe also gives you a good dose of fibre. That’s not bad, eh?
Don't overthink it. Making Mushroom Soup is fun. Just get stuck in, trust your taste buds, and you'll nail it. You totally got this. Go on, make some magic!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Mushroom Soup ahead of time? Like, can I be a domestic goddess and prep this the day before?
Absolutely! Mushroom soup is a fantastic make-ahead dish. In fact, the flavors often meld and deepen overnight. Just prepare the soup according to the recipe, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You might need to add a splash of stock or water if it has thickened too much.
My Mushroom Soup isn't as creamy as I'd like. Help! Did I do a boo-boo?
Don't panic! There are a few ways to rescue your soup. First, make sure you’ve used double cream (heavy cream) as the recipe suggests this makes a big difference. If you've already added the cream, you could try gently simmering the soup for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken further.
Alternatively, you can blend a small portion of the soup (about a cup) with a tablespoon of cream and then stir it back into the main pot.
What's the best way to store leftover Mushroom Soup? And how long will it last?
Leftover mushroom soup should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will typically last for 3-4 days. Make sure the soup has cooled down completely before refrigerating it. When reheating, bring it to a simmer on the stovetop or use the microwave, ensuring it's piping hot throughout before serving.
Just like mum used to make!
I'm trying to eat healthier, can I make this Mushroom Soup lighter? What's the damage?
You sure can! To lighten up the soup, you can use half and-half or even milk instead of double cream. You can also reduce the amount of butter or use olive oil instead. Using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock and loading up on the mushrooms will also help to make it a healthier option.
Check out the nutrition information in the recipe (roughly 320 calories per serving) as a starting point, then adjust based on your ingredient swaps. Remember, every little helps!
Can I freeze Mushroom Soup? I'm a batch cooking ninja, you see.
Freezing mushroom soup is possible, but the texture can sometimes change due to the cream content. For best results, it's recommended to freeze the soup before adding the cream. Once cooled, portion the soup into freezer safe containers or bags, leaving some headspace for expansion.
It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then gently reheat on the stovetop and stir in the cream just before serving. If you've already added cream, it might separate slightly upon thawing, but a good stir should bring it back together.
What kind of mushrooms are best for making Mushroom Soup? I'm feeling a bit "MasterChef" today.
Get your inner Greg Wallace on! A mix of mushrooms will give you the most complex and interesting flavor. Chestnut, cremini (also known as button mushrooms), and shiitake are great choices.
For a more intense earthy flavor, consider adding some wild mushrooms like porcini or chanterelles if you can get your hands on them. Remember, properly sautéing them to release their flavour is key, so don't overcrowd the pan!
Creamy Mushroom Soup A Forest Floor Feast
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 320 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 0g |