Cream Of Mushroom Soup

Savor the rich, comforting flavors of Cream Of Mushroom Soup that brings warmth to any meal. This creamy delight is perfect for lunch or dinner, making it a versatile choice for cozy gatherings or family dinners. With a blend of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and herbs, this soup is not just a treat for the taste buds but also easy to prepare, ensuring you can whip it up on busy weeknights or serve it at special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Cream Of Mushroom Soup can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of fresh mushrooms, garlic, and herbs creates an earthy and delicious profile that pleases everyone.
• Versatile Usage: Serve it as a main dish or a starter; this soup pairs well with crusty bread or salads.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from mushrooms and low-sodium broth, this soup is a wholesome choice without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the herbs to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Cream Of Mushroom Soup, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for even heat distribution while cooking soups, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching pots, plus it doesn’t conduct heat like metal spoons.
• Chef’s knife: Essential for chopping onions and mushrooms quickly and efficiently.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients, making your prep work easier.

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Ingredients

Sautéed mushrooms are cooked to perfection with butter, lots of garlic, and a dash of white apple vinegar and then turned into a delicious Cream Of Mushroom Soup! Full of earthy mushroom yumminess and finished off with heavy cream it’s based on classic French flavors, yet so simple to make!

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1½ pounds mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake or baby bella, sliced)

For Flavoring

• ¼ cup dry white apple vinegar
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cube chicken bouillon
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried)

For the Broth

• 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium or no sodium added)

For Creaminess

• 1 cup heavy cream

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)

How to Make Cream Of Mushroom Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large Dutch oven melt the butter over medium heat then add the olive oil. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the onion softens and is translucent.

Step 2: Add Mushrooms

Add the mushrooms to the pot and cook for 7 to 10 minutes until the liquid that the mushrooms have released has evaporated and they start to lightly brown.

Step 3: Incorporate Vinegar

Pour in the white apple vinegar and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until most of the apple vinegar has evaporated. Sprinkle the flour all over the onion/mushroom mixture; stir continuously as you cook for another minute.

Step 4: Build Flavor Base

Crumble the chicken bouillon over the onion/mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper and add fresh thyme. Stir everything together before pouring in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil then cook for 10 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Taste for seasoning and adjust as needed.

Step 5: Add Cream

Reduce the heat to low before stirring in the heavy cream. Simmer for another 2 minutes but do not bring it back to a boil.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving immediately. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Cream Of Mushroom Soup!

How to Serve Cream Of Mushroom Soup

Serving Cream Of Mushroom Soup can elevate your meal experience. Whether you enjoy it as a starter or alongside a hearty dish, the presentation and accompaniments can enhance its rich flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked baguette is perfect for dipping and adds a satisfying crunch.

Over Rice

• Pouring the soup over a bed of fluffy rice creates a comforting and filling dish.

Topped with Crispy Onions

• Adding crispy fried onions on top provides a delightful texture contrast and extra flavor.

Drizzled with Truffle Oil

• A few drops of truffle oil add a luxurious touch that complements the earthy mushrooms beautifully.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or thyme sprinkled on top enhances both appearance and freshness.

How to Perfect Cream Of Mushroom Soup

To achieve the best Cream Of Mushroom Soup, keep these tips in mind for optimal flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms provide the best flavor and texture compared to canned varieties.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook to ensure the right balance of salt, pepper, and herbs.

• Control Heat: Cook over medium heat to avoid burning the garlic or onions while allowing the mushrooms to caramelize properly.

• Incorporate Variety: Mix different types of mushrooms for a complex flavor profile that makes your soup unique.

Best Side Dishes for Cream Of Mushroom Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Cream Of Mushroom Soup can make your meal more satisfying. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up every drop of the rich soup.

2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad balances the creamy soup, adding freshness with a vinaigrette dressing.

3. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy and savory biscuits complement the flavors of the soup wonderfully.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables offer a healthy contrast to the richness of the soup.

5. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad adds protein and texture while keeping things light yet filling.

6. Stuffed Peppers: These hearty peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide an excellent main course alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cream Of Mushroom Soup can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure the best flavor and texture.

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Not sautéing the onions and garlic properly can lead to a bland soup. Always cook them until soft and fragrant for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the Mushrooms: Cooking mushrooms too long can cause them to become rubbery. Cook just until they are golden brown and their liquid has evaporated.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season at each step can result in a flat taste. Always taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper accordingly.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: A poor-quality broth can negatively impact the soup’s flavor. Use a good-quality vegetable broth for the best results.
• Not Incorporating Fresh Herbs: Skipping fresh herbs like thyme or parsley may leave your soup lacking depth. Add fresh herbs for an aromatic finish.
• Forgetting to Garnish: Serving without garnish can make your dish look unappetizing. Always add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and appeal.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing the container.

Freezing Cream Of Mushroom Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Cream Of Mushroom Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring often until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cream Of Mushroom Soup.

How do I make Cream Of Mushroom Soup vegan?

You can easily make it vegan by substituting heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based cream alternative.

What types of mushrooms are best for Cream Of Mushroom Soup?

Cremini, shiitake, or baby bella mushrooms work wonderfully due to their rich flavors.

Can I use dried mushrooms in my Cream Of Mushroom Soup?

Yes, rehydrate dried mushrooms in hot water before adding them to your soup for added texture and flavor.

How do I thicken my Cream Of Mushroom Soup?

You can thicken it by adding more flour or using a plant-based gelling agent like cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I customize my Cream Of Mushroom Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different herbs, spices, or even vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Cream Of Mushroom Soup recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Its creamy texture combined with earthy flavors makes it perfect for lunch or dinner. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite herbs or additional veggies!