Mushroom soup may not have the fame of French onion soup or the elegance of a bisque, but it holds a special place in the hearts of those who crave comfort in a bowl. Did you know that the earliest versions of mushroom soup date back to 18th-century France?
It quickly became a favorite among royals and common folk alike for its rich, earthy flavors and simplicity. Today, it remains a beloved dish worldwide, with countless variations and unique spins.
My version is inspired by my grandmother’s kitchen, where a pot of mushroom soup was a staple on chilly evenings. Her secret? A blend of fresh herbs, a touch of soy sauce for depth, and a squeeze of lemon to brighten up the flavors. Let’s dive into this recipe and discover why it’s sure to become your new favorite!
What You’ll Need: Ingredients and Their Roles
- Butter (2 tbsp): For a silky base that carries the flavors of the soup.
- Red Onion (1 medium, finely chopped): Adds natural sweetness and depth to the soup.
- Mushrooms (500g, mixed varieties): The star ingredient. Use a combination of button, cremini, and shiitake for a robust flavor profile.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the soup with aromatic warmth.
- Fresh Dill and Thyme (1 tsp each, chopped): Brings a hint of freshness and complexity.
- Paprika (½ tsp): Adds a subtle smokiness and a touch of color.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Vegetable Broth (4 cups): Provides a flavorful base without overpowering the mushrooms.
- Soy Sauce (1 tbsp): Enhances the umami flavor.
- Lemon Juice (1 tbsp): Balances the richness with a bit of acidity.
- Milk (1 cup) and Flour (2 tbsp): Creates a creamy texture without the heaviness of cream.
- Sour Cream and Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Optional, for extra richness and color.
Crafting the Perfect Bowl: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Base Ingredients
Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the red onion and cook for about 2 minutes until it begins to soften. Add the mushrooms and sauté until they are deep brown and caramelized, about 10 minutes. This step is crucial—caramelizing the mushrooms brings out their full, rich flavor.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Profile
Stir in the garlic, dill, paprika, salt, pepper, and thyme. Let this cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the herbs and spices to release their aromas.
Step 3: Add the Liquids
Pour in the vegetable broth, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes. This will meld all the flavors together beautifully.
Step 4: Achieve Creamy Perfection
In a small bowl, whisk the milk and flour until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the pot, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook over medium heat for about 20 minutes, or until the soup has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Ladle it into bowls and garnish with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve with a slice of crusty baguette for the perfect finishing touch.
Why This Recipe Works
- Layered Flavors: Sautéing the mushrooms until caramelized deepens their flavor, while the combination of fresh herbs, soy sauce, and lemon juice adds complexity and balance.
- Creamy Texture Without Cream: The use of milk and flour creates a luscious, creamy soup that feels indulgent but remains light.
- Versatility at Its Best: This soup can easily be adapted to suit different dietary needs or taste preferences, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Creative Variations to Try
- Make It Vegan: Substitute the butter with olive oil, use almond or oat milk instead of dairy milk, and skip the sour cream or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Add a Twist of Flavor: Stir in some truffle oil just before serving for a gourmet touch.
- Boost with Protein: Add cooked lentils or chickpeas to the soup for a heartier meal.
Wrap Up with Warmth
There you have it—a mushroom soup recipe that is not just delicious but adaptable, satisfying, and brimming with comforting flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it alone with a good book or serving it as a starter for a dinner party, this soup is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. So, grab your ingredients, embrace the magic of cooking, and enjoy every sip!
Feel free to share your version of this recipe or any creative twists you add—I’d love to hear about your kitchen adventures! 🍲
Delicious Mushroom Soup
Ingredients
- 55 g butter
- 1 red onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic finely chopped
- 500 g mushrooms sliced
- 1 tablespoon dill
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Juice of half a lemon
- 3 cups meat or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup sour cream
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
- Baguette bread for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 2 minutes until soft.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they turn dark brown, approximately 10 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, dill, paprika, salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Pour in the broth, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk the milk and flour together until smooth.
- Gradually add the milk mixture to the soup, stirring constantly. Cook over medium heat for 20 minutes, until thickened.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream, chopped fresh parsley, and a side of baguette bread.
Notes
- You can use any type of mushrooms for this soup, such as button, cremini, or portobello.
- For a vegan version, replace butter with olive oil, milk with a plant-based alternative, and sour cream with vegan cream.
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