Creamy Mushroom Soup

 Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe

Looking for a comforting and delicious homemade soup? This creamy mushroom soup is a must-try! Packed with earthy flavors, it’s the perfect choice for a cozy dinner or a light lunch. Whether you're a fan of classic soups or looking for a healthy option, this easy mushroom soup recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients:

- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 2 garlic cloves, minced

- 500g mixed mushrooms, sliced (use button mushrooms, cremini, or wild mushrooms for added depth)

- 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves

- 1 bay leaf

- 1 liter vegetable stock or chicken broth

- 200ml double cream or half-and-half

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes or until the mushrooms are golden brown and have released their juices. The mixture should be rich and aromatic.

3. Season the Soup: Sprinkle the thyme over the mushrooms, add the bay leaf, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together, allowing the herbs to infuse the mushrooms with flavor.

4. Add the Stock: Pour in the vegetable stock or chicken broth, ensuring all the ingredients are well-submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes to develop the flavors fully.

5. Blend the Soup: Remove the bay leaf, then use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only a portion of the soup or pulse the blender a few times.

6. Finish with Cream: Stir in the double cream or half-and-half, giving the soup a luxurious, velvety texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

7. Serve: Ladle the creamy mushroom soup into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives, and enjoy your comforting bowl of homemade mushroom soup.

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Tips for the Best Mushroom Soup

- Use a variety of mushrooms: For a deeper, more complex flavor, mix different types of mushrooms like shiitake, portobello, or porcini.

- Make it vegan: Substitute the cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

- Add a splash of white wine: For a touch of acidity and extra flavor, deglaze the mushrooms with white wine before adding the stock.

This rich and creamy mushroom soup is not only comforting but also a great option for those looking for a healthy soup recipe. It’s ideal for meal prepping or as a starter for a dinner party. Plus, it’s easy to customize depending on your dietary preferences!