Winter is a season that calls for nourishing dishes that warm us from the inside out.
Creamy mushroom soup is a classic comfort food that warms both the body and the soul. With its rich and earthy flavours, this recipe will take you on a culinary journey that celebrates the delightful taste of mushrooms.
So, let’s gather our ingredients, roll up our sleeves, and prepare to savour the creamy goodness of homemade mushroom soup.
Ingredients:
1 pound (450g) fresh mushrooms (cremini, button, or a mix), sliced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
4 tablespoons butter
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become soft and fragrant.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot, stirring occasionally, and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the mushrooms release their moisture and turn golden brown.
Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir well to coat them evenly. Cook for an additional minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
Slowly pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld together.
Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, carefully puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Be cautious with the hot liquid to avoid any accidents.
Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavours to blend.
Once the soup reaches your desired consistency, remove it from the heat.
Ladle the creamy mushroom soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a touch of freshness.
Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or croutons on the side for a delightful textural contrast.
