Mushroom Soup Recipe (with Video)

Mushroom Soup Recipe: Mushroom soup is a timeless dish that embodies comfort and warmth in every spoonful.

Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply craving something hearty, mushroom soup delivers a savory experience that’s easy to whip up. Plus, making it from scratch ensures you get the freshest flavors without any artificial additives.

Ready to learn how? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients for Mushroom Soup

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix): 500g
• Butter or olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Flour: 1 tablespoon (for thickening)
• Vegetable or chicken broth: 4 cups
• Heavy cream: 1 cup (optional for creamy texture)
• Salt and pepper: To taste
• Fresh thyme or parsley: For garnish
• Optional: A splash of white wine for added depth.

Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit dietary preferences or add extras like celery or carrots for more body.

Equipment Needed

Before you start, gather these essential tools:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Blender (immersion or countertop)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Having the right tools on hand makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Mushroom Soup Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Mushrooms

Start by cleaning your mushrooms thoroughly. Avoid soaking them in water, as they’ll absorb it and lose their flavor. Instead, use a damp cloth or paper towel to gently wipe off any dirt.

Next, chop them into thin slices or dice them, depending on your preferred texture. For more intense flavor, consider roasting half of the mushrooms before adding them to the soup.

Pro tip: Keeping a mix of mushroom types, like shiitake or portobello, elevates the dish with layers of earthy flavors.

Step 2: Sautéing the Ingredients

Heat your butter or olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.

Add the mushrooms and cook them down, stirring occasionally, until they release their liquid and start browning. This step intensifies the mushroom’s natural umami. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well, ensuring it coats everything evenly.

Step 3: Adding Liquids

Pour in your broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. If using white wine, add it before the broth and let it cook for a minute to burn off the alcohol.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use less broth or add more flour earlier in the process.

Step 4: Simmering the Soup

Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally and scrape the bottom of the pot to ensure nothing sticks.

If you added roasted mushrooms earlier, now’s the time to let their flavors infuse into the soup base.

Step 5: Blending the Soup

Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. Blend until smooth or leave some chunks for texture.

Pro tip: If you like it creamier, add the heavy cream during this step and blend it in. For a non-dairy version, coconut milk works beautifully.

Step 6: Final Seasoning and Adjustments

After blending, return the soup to the pot and reheat it gently over low heat. This is where you’ll fine-tune the flavor. Add salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the broth may already contain some salt.

For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. Want more depth? A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of soy sauce can enhance the umami notes of your mushroom soup.

If the soup is too thick, stir in a bit more broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. On the other hand, if it feels too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce.

Step 7: Garnishing the Soup

Garnishing transforms a simple bowl of soup into a restaurant-worthy dish. Here are some topping ideas:

• Fresh herbs: Parsley, thyme, or chives bring a pop of color and fresh aroma.
• Sautéed mushrooms: Reserve a few mushrooms to sauté separately for a sophisticated touch.
• Cream drizzle: Swirl a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk on top for a creamy presentation.
• Toasted croutons: Add crunch with homemade croutons seasoned with garlic and herbs.
• Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of grated cheese adds a salty, nutty finish.

Serve it up in your favorite bowls, and it’s ready to enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Mushroom soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Here are some ideas:

1. Crusty bread: Dip slices of freshly baked sourdough or baguette for a satisfying bite.
2. Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
3. Sandwiches: Grilled cheese or a turkey sandwich complements the earthy flavors of the soup.

This soup also works well as an appetizer for a multi-course meal or a hearty main dish when served in larger portions.

Variations of Mushroom Soup

The versatility of mushroom soup allows for endless variations to suit your taste and dietary preferences:

1. Creamy Mushroom Soup: Use heavy cream or coconut milk for a velvety texture.
2. Broth-Based Soup: Skip the cream for a lighter, more refreshing version.
3. Vegan Mushroom Soup: Replace butter with olive oil, cream with plant-based alternatives, and use vegetable broth.
4. Add-ins: Include barley, wild rice, or quinoa for added texture and nutrition.

Experiment with different mushroom types or add truffle oil for a gourmet twist!

Tips for Making the Perfect Mushroom Soup

1. Choose Fresh Mushrooms: Ensure your mushrooms are firm and free of dark spots for the best flavor.
2. Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Allowing the mushrooms to brown properly develops deeper flavors.
3. Balance the Flavors: Taste as you go, adjusting salt, pepper, and other seasonings.
4. Blend Carefully: For a chunkier soup, blend just half the mixture or pulse lightly.
5. Experiment with Herbs: Thyme, rosemary, or even a bay leaf can add complexity to your soup.

Storing and Reheating

Mushroom soup is even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

1. Refrigerating: Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
2. Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing soups with cream added; instead, stir in the cream after reheating.
3. Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If reheating frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the fridge first.

FAQs about Mushroom Soup Recipe

What are the key ingredients for mushroom soup?

The key ingredients include fresh mushrooms (such as cremini, button, or shiitake), onions, garlic, vegetable or chicken stock, heavy cream, butter, and optional herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor.

How do I make mushroom soup creamy?

To make mushroom soup creamy, blend a portion or all of the soup using an immersion blender or a standard blender. Then, stir in heavy cream, milk, or a dairy-free alternative for a rich texture.

Can I make mushroom soup vegan?

Yes, you can substitute butter with olive oil, use vegetable stock, and replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a delicious vegan version.

How do I store leftover mushroom soup?

Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3–4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What dishes pair well with mushroom soup?

Mushroom soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or a sandwich like grilled cheese for a satisfying meal.

Can I use canned mushrooms instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh mushrooms are recommended for the best flavor and texture. If using canned mushrooms, drain them thoroughly and adjust seasoning to enhance the taste.

How do I thicken mushroom soup?

You can thicken the soup by adding a slurry of cornstarch and water, stirring in flour during the sautéing process, or blending some of the soup to create a naturally thicker consistency.

Conclusion

There you have it—a foolproof, step-by-step guide to making a delicious bowl of mushroom soup. Whether you prefer it creamy, chunky, vegan, or loaded with toppings, this recipe is adaptable to fit your cravings. Plus, the homemade touch ensures every bite is packed with love and flavor.