Cream of Mushroom Soup is a comforting classic, perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re craving something cozy and delicious. This homemade version is rich, creamy, and bursting with the earthy flavor of fresh mushrooms. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch of this soup to enjoy on its own or as a luxurious base for other dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh mushrooms, sliced (use a mix of button, cremini, and/or shiitake for depth of flavor)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups (946ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup (237ml) heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Step 1: Sauté Mushrooms and Aromatics
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Roux
- Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir to combine, cooking for another 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and let it cook for 10-12 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 3: Blend and Simmer
- Using an immersion blender or transferring the soup in batches to a blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
- Return the blended soup to the pot if necessary and stir in the heavy cream.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the creamy mushroom soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side for a satisfying meal.
Tips:
- For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the soup while cooking the mushrooms.
- Feel free to customize the soup by adding other ingredients like thyme, rosemary, or a splash of sherry for a gourmet touch.
- Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 740mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 17g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 6g
Homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup is a delightful treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a velvety smooth soup that’s sure to warm you up from the inside out. Enjoy it as a starter, a light meal, or a luxurious addition to any dinner spread.
