Cream Of Mushroom Soup Recipe – Easy Meals To Cook

When I think about comfort food, Cream of Mushroom Soup always comes to mind. Pair it with a warm crusty bread, a light salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich, and you’ve got a cozy meal that warms the heart. 

It’s a dish that offers simplicity yet packs an incredible depth of flavor.

What is Cream of Mushroom Soup?

Cream of Mushroom Soup is a thick, smooth dish made primarily from mushrooms, cream, and broth. The ingredients blend together, creating a rich and creamy texture. Often, it’s used as a base for casseroles or served as a comforting starter.

My version of this soup elevates the basics. I incorporate fresh shiitake mushrooms combined with cremini or button mushrooms. This mixture adds various layers of flavor. It's simple yet, when done right, absolutely luxurious.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Cream Of Mushroom Soup Recipes?

The depth of flavor in this recipe comes from using a variety of mushrooms instead of just one type. I also use a blend of shallots and garlic to create a base that’s aromatic yet doesn’t overpower the earthy tones of the mushrooms. 

The addition of fresh lemon juice and a pinch of nutmeg gives the soup a surprising brightness, making it stand apart from typical versions.

Additionally, heavy cream adds richness. The balance of textures, thanks to the chunky pieces of mushrooms throughout, creates a comforting dish that feels homemade and authentic.

How Does It Taste Like?

Imagine a warm hug on a cold day. That’s how this soup feels. It’s creamy without being overwhelming. The earthiness of the mushrooms shines through, punctuated by the gentle crunch of sautéed shallots and the kick from the garlic.

The nutmeg adds warmth and a hint of spice, while the lemon juice offers a burst of freshness that lifts the soup. It's truly a delightful balance in every spoonful.

Ingredients You'll Need To Make This Dish:

4 cups of chicken broth

4 tablespoons of high-quality extra virgin olive oil

4 tablespoons of unsalted butter

2 pounds of cremini or white button mushrooms, cleaned and roughly chopped or sliced into 1/8-inch pieces

A small handful of shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped

3/4 cup of minced shallots

3 cloves of garlic, minced

1 teaspoon of kosher salt

3/4 teaspoon of dried tarragon

1/2 cup of heavy cream

1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice

A pinch of nutmeg

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the mushrooms, onions, and garlic. Measuring everything before you cook saves time and helps you focus on the process.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add minced shallots and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. The kitchen should start smelling heavenly by now!

Step 3: Add Mushrooms

Add all of your mushrooms to the pot. Stir them gently, letting them absorb the flavors of the shallots and garlic. Cook until they soften, about 7 to 10 minutes.

Step 4: Season It Right

Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, dried tarragon, and nutmeg. Mix well to combine. Allow these seasonings to bloom by cooking for another minute.

Step 5: Pour in the Broth

Carefully add the chicken broth to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes so the flavors can deepen.

Step 6: Blend the Soup

Once simmered, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it’s creamy and smooth. If you don’t have one, you can blend in batches using a traditional blender. Just be cautious with the hot liquid!

Step 7: Stir in the Cream

After blending, return the soup to low heat. Slowly stir in the heavy cream. Let it warm through for a few minutes.

Step 8: Finish with Lemon Juice

Before serving, add the fresh lemon juice. Taste the soup; adjust seasoning as necessary. This final touch will brighten the entire dish.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Spoon the soup into bowls and serve immediately. It's delightful on its own, or you can drizzle some extra cream on top for presentation.

Tips & Tricks On Making Cream Of Mushroom Soup

• Use a variety of mushrooms: This adds complexity and makes the flavor more interesting.
  
• Don’t rush the sauté: Take your time to cook the mushrooms and shallots. This builds a solid foundation of flavor.
  
• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a bit of flour to the mushrooms before adding the broth. This will thicken it as it cooks.
  
• Add fresh herbs: Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor enhancement.
  
• Make it vegan: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream.

How Do I Store This Dish?

To store your Cream of Mushroom Soup, allow it to cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. The soup can last for about 3 to 4 days.

To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat. You might need to add a splash of broth or cream if it becomes too thick.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use In Cream Of Mushroom Soup Recipe?

Here are five suggestions to elevate or cater this soup to your liking:

• Chopped Spinach or Kale: Stir in some fresh greens for added nutrition and color. They wilt nicely into the soup.
  
• Roasted Garlic: For a sweeter, smokier flavor, add roasted garlic instead of fresh. Roast a whole head until caramelized and blend it in!
  
• Cauliflower: For a lighter version, replace half the mushrooms with steamed cauliflower. It adds a creamy consistency without the extra fat.
  
• Coconut Milk: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative that still tastes rich and satisfying.
  
• Broccoli: Finely chop broccoli and add it to the pot during the last 10 minutes of simmering for a nice crunch.
  

Conclusion

Making Cream of Mushroom Soup may seem simple, but with the right ingredients and techniques, you can transform it into an extraordinary dish. It brings warmth, comfort, and an unforgettable flavor profile.

Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a meal, this recipe is a keeper. Given how easy it is to prepare, you can whip it up anytime the craving strikes. Your family will thank you, and your friends may just demand the recipe!

So, grab your apron, and get ready to create something delicious. Enjoy the process and the warm, comforting bowls that come from it.

Happy cooking!

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