Cream of Mushroom Soup

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Cream of Mushroom Soup: A Timeless Classic

Introduction

This Cream of Mushroom Soup is a timeless classic, offering a velvety, rich, and earthy flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly day or a versatile base for other recipes, this soup delivers exceptional taste and texture. Below, we share the full recipe along with tips to customize it to your liking.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound mushrooms, sliced (cremini, button, or a mix)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).

2. Cook the Mushrooms

  1. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and brown (about 8-10 minutes).

3. Thicken the Soup Base

  1. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring continuously to coat the mushrooms evenly.
  2. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
  3. Gradually add the broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

4. Simmer and Blend

  1. Add the thyme, salt, and pepper, then bring to a gentle simmer.
  2. Cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  3. For a creamier texture, blend the soup partially or fully using an immersion blender.

5. Add the Dairy and Final Touches

  1. Stir in the milk and heavy cream, heating gently without boiling.
  2. Adjust seasoning as needed, then remove from heat.

6. Serve and Enjoy

  1. Ladle into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley for an elegant touch.
  2. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

Tips and Variations

1. Enhance the Flavor

  • Add a splash of white wine while cooking the mushrooms for an extra depth of flavor.
  • Use a mix of wild mushrooms for a richer, more complex taste.

2. Make It Healthier

  • Substitute half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version.
  • Use gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary restrictions.

3. Store and Reheat

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Cream of Mushroom Soup is an easy, delicious, and comforting meal that you can make anytime. Whether you enjoy it as a standalone dish or use it as a base for casseroles, it’s guaranteed to satisfy.

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