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Cream of Mushroom Soup

Cream of Mushroom Soup

Cream of Mushroom Soup is a rich, velvety classic that is quick and easy to make using fresh mushrooms, aromatic aromatics, and a creamy base. Perfect as a comforting starter or versatile base for casseroles and sauces, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of earthiness and creaminess with customizable options to suit various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 tbsp butter or oil
  • 1 medium onion or 2 shallots, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch/arrowroot powder for gluten-free)
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 cup cream or milk (or coconut milk/cashew cream for vegan)
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: Melt butter or warm oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions or shallots and minced garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 3 to 5 minutes. This forms the flavor base of the soup.
  2. Cook the Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook for 7 to 10 minutes until the mushrooms release their juices and start to brown, enhancing their umami flavor.
  3. Add Flour and Stir: Sprinkle the flour evenly over the mushrooms, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes. This step thickens the soup and removes the raw flour taste.
  4. Pour in Broth and Simmer: Slowly whisk in the broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 to 15 minutes until the soup thickens and flavors meld together.
  5. Blend and Add Cream: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy, or leave partially chunky if preferred. Stir in the cream or milk alternative, then season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs to taste.

Notes

  • Use fresh mushrooms for best flavor and texture; avoid canned mushrooms.
  • Properly caramelize mushrooms to deepen the soup’s flavor.
  • Adjust flour or starch amounts gradually to get your preferred thickness.
  • Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to brighten the rich soup.
  • Season at the end since cream can mute seasonings.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cream of Mushroom Soup, Mushroom Soup, Comfort Food, Easy Soup Recipe, Gluten Free Soup, Vegan Mushroom Soup Variation