Introduction
Creamy mushroom soup is a comforting classic that combines earthy mushrooms, aromatic herbs, and a velvety finish of cream. This dish is perfect for cozy evenings.
family dinners, or as a starter to impress guests. The rich, savory flavor of mushrooms shines through while the thyme and garlic add depth, creating a warming and satisfying bowl of soup.
Ingredients
· 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
· 1 medium yellow onion, diced
· 2 cloves garlic, minced
· 1 ½ pounds (700g) mixed mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or your choice), cleaned and sliced
· ¼ cup dry white wine or dry sherry (optional)
· 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable or chicken broth
· 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
· 1 bay leaf
· ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
· Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
· 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions – How to Make
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat, then sauté the diced onion until soft and translucent.
Add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant before stirring in the mushrooms. Allow the mushrooms to cook until they release their juices and turn golden.
If using, pour in the white wine or sherry to deglaze the pan and let it reduce slightly. Add the broth, thyme, and bay leaf, then bring to a gentle simmer for about 20 minutes.
Remove the bay leaf and use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency, leaving some mushroom pieces for texture if you prefer.
sitre in the cream, season with salt and pepper, and let the soup warm through without boiling. Finish by sprinkling chopped parsley on top before serving.
Variations
You can make the soup vegan by replacing the butter with olive oil and the cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.
For a heartier version, add cooked wild rice, barley, or even small pasta shapes.
A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Gruyère adds extra richness, while smoked paprika or a splash of soy sauce enhances the depth of flavor.
Tips
Choose a mix of mushrooms for the best flavor complexity, such as combining earthy cremini, delicate shiitake, and meaty portobello.
Always sauté mushrooms until browned to bring out their umami flavor. If you prefer a silky texture, blend the soup completely; if you like it rustic.
leave some mushroom slices intact. Taste and adjust seasoning at the end, as mushrooms soak up salt quickly.
Conclusion
This creamy mushroom soup is a versatile, warming dish that highlights the natural flavors of mushrooms while offering endless room for creativity.
Whether you enjoy it smooth and elegant or chunky and rustic, it’s a comforting bowl that brings both nourishment and indulgence to the table.