Cream of Mushroom Soup: A Homemade Hug in a Bowl

Cream Of Mushroom Soup A Homemade Hug In A Bowl

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Alright, let's dive into the wonderful world of cream of mushroom soup! ever find yourself staring blankly into the fridge, craving something comforting and warm? well, i have! honestly, nothing hits the spot quite like a creamy, earthy bowl of mushroom goodness.
The Ultimate Cream of Mushroom Soup: From Scratch Comfort
Forget those watery tinned soups. this cream of mushroom soup recipe is where it's at! it has deep flavour with fresh mushrooms and aromatic herbs.
Plus, it has a silky-smooth texture, too. perfect for a chilly night or fancy starter.
This soup has roots in classic cooking. Think old-world comfort, but with a modern twist. It might seem a bit fancy, but trust me, it’s easier than you think!
This recipe is medium difficulty and should take around 1 hour to whip up. It makes about 6 servings. Perfect for a family dinner, or leftovers for lunch.
Why This Recipe Rocks: From Comfort to Health
One of the best parts? mushrooms are packed with nutrients! they are good for your immune system. plus, this soup is pure comfort in a bowl – ideal for a grey day.
It's also special because it's made from scratch. no weird additives here.
What you'll need: The Ingredient Rundown
So, what makes this Cream of Mushroom Soup so special? Let's talk ingredients, shall we?
You'll need olive oil, onion, and garlic. of course you need mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms, thyme, nutmeg, vegetable broth.
Also need heavy cream, flour, and dry sherry. and lastly salt and pepper! don't forget parsley and croutons for garnish.
Cream of mushroom condensed soup recipes use fewer fresh ingredients. i prefer fresh because you can control the flavour more.
Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to make this amazing soup. I'm telling you, it's worth ditching the tinned stuff!
Ingredients & Equipment for Cream of Mushroom Soup Nirvana
First things first, let's talk ingredients. Good ingredients mean good soup! I'm all about that delicious, earthy flavour.
Main Ingredients: The Heart of the Matter
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) . It's gotta be good quality. This helps everything get a nice start.
- Yellow onion: 1 large , finely chopped. Honestly, it just needs to not be red.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Don't skimp on the garlic.
- Mixed mushrooms: 1 pound (450g) , sliced. I like cremini, shiitake, and oyster. A mix is key. Look for firm, plump mushrooms with no slimy spots. That's the quality you want!
- Dried thyme: 1/2 teaspoon . The earthier the better for this earthy soup!
- Ground nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon . Don't underestimate the nutmeg.
- Vegetable broth: 4 cups (950ml) , low sodium. The lower the sodium, the better, so you can fully control the taste.
- Heavy cream: 1 cup (240ml) . It's gotta be heavy for that richness.
- All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup (30g) . This thickens everything!
- Dry sherry: 1/4 cup (60ml) (optional). But seriously, don't skip this!
- Salt and pepper: To taste. Obvs.
Seasoning Notes: Spice it Up!
Thyme and nutmeg? essential. they bring out that woodsy flavour. plus, a dash of sherry adds a certain je ne sais quoi .
For a deeper, richer flavor, try adding a bay leaf while it simmers. just remember to take it out before blending.
Also, you can use gluten free Worcestershire sauce too!
Need a sub for thyme? Marjoram or oregano will do in a pinch.
Also, ever wondered how to make cream of mushroom without all the faff? this recipe nails it. you can even adapt it to how to make cream of chicken soup later.
It all starts with a solid base.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
- Large pot or Dutch oven: For all the action.
- Immersion blender: Game changer for smooth soup. Or a regular blender, carefully .
- Cutting board and knife: For obvious reasons.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is your friend.
Don't have an immersion blender? no worries! use a regular blender, but be super careful with hot liquids. blend in small batches and hold the lid down tight with a towel.
Trust me, you don't want mushroom soup splattered all over your kitchen! i learned that one the hard way, honestly.
With these bits, you can take your taste buds into a new world! This dish would soon turn into a winter favourite, or a comfort soup recipes
Now, get ready to whip up some magic! seriously, this homemade cream of mushroom soup recipe is a winner. and don't even think about using campbells cream of mushroom soup recipes after you've tried this.
No comparison.
Right then, let's dive into how to make cream of mushroom soup. honestly, forget those tins. we're talking proper, comfort food here! this is the ultimate cream of mushroom soup: from scratch comfort.
It's all about fresh ingredients and that proper, mmm , can't-stop-eating-it flavour.
Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place
First things first: essential mise en place . that just means get everything chopped and ready before you even turn on the hob.
Chop 1 large yellow onion finely, mince 2 cloves of garlic , and slice 1 pound (450g) of mixed mushrooms.
This bit takes around 20 minutes . time-saving organization tips? grab pre-sliced mushrooms if you're in a proper rush. this is crucial !
Creamy Goodness: Step-by-Step
Right, now for the cooking bit. Five steps to mushroomy heaven!
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of olive oil in a big pot over medium heat. Throw in the onion and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until they're soft and translucent.
- Mushrooms take the stage : Add those sliced mushrooms, 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Sauté for 8- 10 minutes . They should soften and release their juices.
- Roux time : Sprinkle 1/4 cup (30g) of all-purpose flour over everything. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1- 2 minutes . This is your cream soup mix recipe coming to life.
- Deglaze (fancy bit!) : Pour in 1/4 cup (60ml) of dry sherry. Scrape the bottom of the pot. No sherry? Dry white wine works.
- Broth and simmer : Slowly pour in 4 cups (950ml) of low-sodium vegetable broth, stirring so no lumps form. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat. Simmer for 20 minutes . Letting flavours meld is crucial for Homemade Cream Of Mushroom Soup .
Pro Tips for Soup Perfection
- Don't crowd the pan! Seriously, give your mushrooms some space to brown. Otherwise, they steam, and that’s no good. Nobody wants steamed mushrooms.
- Blend with caution! Hot soup in a blender is a hazard . Use an immersion blender if you have one.
- Taste as you go! Salt and pepper are your friends. Is it lacking something? Add more!
Honestly, this soup is so good, it's practically a hug in a bowl. if you are looking for cream of everything soup recipe you can swap out the mushrooms for another vegetables!.
Give it a go and tell me what you think! this beats the tin stuff any day. did you know? 76% of people would choose homemade cream of soup over canned soup.
Alright, let's chat soup, particularly Cream of Mushroom. Mmm! Here are some extra notes for success. These little tips help make how to make cream of mushroom a breeze.
Recipe Notes
I've made this cream of mushroom soup a zillion times. so, i've learned a few things, you know? like, don't rush the mushrooms! seriously.
They need time to get that lovely browned colour. trust me, it makes all the difference! if you're wondering how to make cream of mushroom , patient mushroom cooking is key.
And for a real treat, try roasting the mushrooms before adding them to the soup. trust me, your creme soup recipes will never be the same.
Serving Suggestions: Soup's On!
Okay, so you've got this glorious bowl of homemade cream of mushroom soup . now what? presentation is everything. swirl a little extra cream on top for fanciness.
Fresh parsley is a must. and don't forget the sides! a classic grilled cheese is always a winner. honestly, nothing beats dipping a crispy grilled cheese into creamy soup.
A side salad cuts through richness too. mushroom soup recipes are versatile, so get creative.
Looking for the perfect drink pairing? a crisp white wine works wonders. if you're feeling fancy, go for a sherry.
It's such a treat! i once tried pairing my soup with a craft beer. let me tell you, it was divine !
Storage Tips: Soup for Days!
Got leftovers? lucky you! this cream of mushroom soup recipe keeps well. store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
It's good for about 3-4 days, easy. for longer storage, freezing is an option. just let it cool completely before transferring it.
Reheating is simple. gently warm it on the stovetop. or, zap it in the microwave in short bursts. stir it often to ensure it heats evenly.
Just avoid boiling it. nobody wants curdled soup, right? i always add a splash of broth when reheating. it restores the creamy texture, so the creamy mushroom soup recipes stay creamy.
Variations: Soup Your Way!
Want to mix things up? go for it! try adding different herbs or spices. a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a lovely kick.
For a gluten free worcestershire sauce , just sub the original one. want a vegan version? use cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
Homemade gluten free and delicious!
Feeling adventurous? truffle oil takes this soup to the next level. drizzle a tiny bit on top before serving. it's pure luxury! for a winter soup recipe , try adding some roasted root vegetables.
Parsnips and carrots are amazing additions. this is truly a cream of everything soup once you add anything you like!
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Bowl
Alright, let's talk nutrition. this soup is packed with vitamins and minerals from the mushrooms. they're great for your immune system! the cream adds richness and healthy fats.
But remember, portion control is key.
One serving is about 250 calories. it's a decent amount of protein and fiber, too. just be mindful of the sodium content.
Especially if you're using store-bought broth, so homemade condensed cream of mushroom is preferable.
Want to make it healthier? use low-sodium broth and less cream. there are lots of cream of mushroom condensed soup recipes out there.
Just adjust them to your liking. and try adding extra veggies! it's all about balance, right?
Honestly, how to can cream of mushroom soup is not something I've tried yet, but I would always follow safe canning practices.
So, there you have it! all the tips and tricks you need to make the ultimate cream of mushroom soup .
Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with it. and remember, even if it's not perfect, it's still homemade! it's a comfort soup recipe to share with loved ones.
You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make cream of mushroom soup from scratch taste amazing?
The secret is all in the mushrooms! Don't skimp on the quality or variety – a mix of cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms will give you a complex, earthy flavour. Also, don't rush the sautéing process; let them brown nicely to develop depth. A splash of dry sherry at the end is a game-changer, trust me – it adds a certain je ne sais quoi!
Can I make this cream of mushroom soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavours meld even better overnight. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do it gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, and avoid boiling to prevent the cream from splitting. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short bursts.
How to make cream of mushroom soup vegan or dairy-free?
Making this soup vegan is easier than you think! Simply swap out the heavy cream for cashew cream (soaked cashews blended with water) or full-fat coconut milk for richness. You'll want to use olive oil or vegan butter for sautéing the vegetables, and make sure your vegetable broth is truly vegetable broth (some contain animal products). You won't even miss the dairy – promise!
What can I use instead of flour to thicken my cream of mushroom soup?
If you're avoiding gluten, you have a few options. Cornstarch or tapioca starch work well as a gluten-free alternative. Just whisk a tablespoon or two of starch with a little cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the soup while it simmers. Arrowroot powder also works similarly. You can also skip the roux altogether and blend a small portion of the soup before adding the cream; this will naturally thicken the soup.
Is cream of mushroom soup healthy?
While cream of mushroom soup is comforting and delicious, it can be quite rich. Using low-sodium vegetable broth can help keep the sodium content in check. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream. Also, loading up on mushrooms adds fibre and nutrients! Just be mindful of portion sizes – everything in moderation, right?
Can I freeze cream of mushroom soup?
Freezing this soup is possible, but the texture might change slightly. Dairy-based soups sometimes separate upon thawing. To minimize this, let the soup cool completely, then freeze it in freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. When thawing, do it slowly in the fridge overnight. You might need to blend it briefly with an immersion blender after reheating to restore its smooth consistency. It's like a bit of kitchen wizardry!