How to Make Creamy Mushroom Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for about 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mushrooms will release their moisture, shrink, and become soft. Continue to cook them until they’re golden brown and have reduced in size.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and add the thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer, and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender at this stage to puree the soup, or you can blend it in batches using a regular blender.
Step 4: Make it Creamy
Once the soup has simmered and the flavors have developed, stir in the heavy cream. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will give the soup its luxurious, creamy texture.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper, if needed. If you’d like a thinner consistency, you can add a little more broth or cream. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Mushroom Soup
- Use a variety of mushrooms: For more depth of flavor, try mixing different types of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or portobello. Each type brings a unique taste and texture.
- Smooth or chunky: If you prefer a smooth soup, blend it until creamy. For a chunkier version, blend just half of the soup and leave the rest as is for more texture.
- Add white wine: For an extra layer of flavor, deglaze the pot with a splash of dry white wine after cooking the mushrooms. Let it cook off before adding the broth.
- Make it dairy-free: Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter, vegan-friendly version.
- Boost with protein: You can add cooked chicken, bacon, or even tofu for a heartier meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a comforting soup that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours.
- Rich and Indulgent: The combination of mushrooms and cream creates a velvety, luxurious texture that’s hard to resist.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, making it as creamy, flavorful, or hearty as you like.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a sophisticated starter for a special meal, this creamy mushroom soup fits any occasion.
