Indulge yourself in a bowl of velvety Cream of Mushroom Soup that is not only rich in flavor but also incredibly comforting. This dish perfectly marries fresh mushrooms with aromatic onions and garlic, resulting in a warm and soothing bowl ideal for any time of the year. As you take your first spoonful, you will appreciate the depth of flavor this simple dish offers. Made with just a handful of wholesome ingredients, this vegan and vegetarian soup is wonderfully easy to prepare, making it a perfect candidate for your weeknight dinner rotations.

One of the main appeals of this Cream of Mushroom Soup is its versatility. Whether you’re having it as a light lunch or serving it as an appetizer for a lavish dinner, it appeals to personal tastes, dietary restrictions, and occasion types alike. Plus, the addition of heavy cream adds that luscious finish, making each bite completely satisfying. With its delightful aroma wafting from the kitchen, it is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Cream of Mushroom Soup

Rich and Flavorful: Experience the deep flavor profile thanks to the combination of fresh ingredients.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weekdays or quick weekend meals.
Vegetarian-Friendly: Made entirely with vegetable broth and cream, this recipe is suitable for vegetarian diets.
Comfort Food: Serve it warm, and it feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Leftovers Friendly: Store it in the fridge for up to four days, making meal prep a breeze!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Preparing for this Cream of Mushroom Soup involves gathering your tools and ingredients to create a smooth cooking process. You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven to cook your soup, as well as a wooden spoon for stirring. Having an immersion blender handy will make blending the soup into a creamy consistency a piece of cake, but if you don’t have one, a standard blender will work just as well. Measuring cups and spoons are essential to ensure accuracy in your ingredient proportions. And don’t forget a cutting board along with a sharp knife to chop the onions and garlic efficiently.

Before cooking, make sure to clean and slice your mushrooms properly. This not only enhances the visual appeal of your dish but also ensures even cooking. Gather all your ingredients, including butter, olive oil, flour, vegetable broth, cream, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley, so that you can dive straight into the cooking process without interruption.

Ingredients

1 pound fresh mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by placing a large pot over medium heat and adding the unsalted butter alongside the olive oil. Allow the fats to melt and combine, then stir in the finely chopped yellow onion. Cook this mixture until the onions become soft and translucent, providing a sweet base flavor that will enhance the entire dish.

Step 2: Add the Mushrooms and Garlic

Once the onions have softened, it’s time to introduce minced garlic and sliced mushrooms into the pot. Stir them well, making sure their natural moisture is released. Keep cooking until the mushrooms turn golden brown and shrink in size, which usually takes around 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for developing rich flavors in the soup.

Step 3: Thicken the Base

Next, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mushroom mixture. Stir it in well for about one to two minutes; this helps to cook away the raw flour taste and creates a thickened base for your soup. It’s essential to ensure that every bit of the flour is incorporated well into the mixture.

Step 4: Add the Stock

Now, gradually pour in the vegetable broth while continuously stirring to avoid forming lumps. Once fully combined, increase the heat slightly and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, enabling all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Blend the Soup

After simmering, carefully blend the soup until it reaches a silky and smooth consistency. You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot for ease or transfer it to a standard blender in batches. Once blended, return the creamy mixture back to the pot.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

In the last step, stir in the heavy cream, salt, and black pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer gently for another five minutes, letting all the flavors come together harmoniously.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the soup into warm bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a beautiful presentation. This final touch not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of freshness.

Variations

Protein: Add cooked chicken or white beans for a heartier meal option.
Vegetables: Include chopped celery or carrots for added nutrients and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with thyme or rosemary to enhance the herbaceous notes.

Cooking Notes

For a thicker soup, allow it to simmer a little longer which will reduce the liquid.
Consider reserving some sautéed mushroom slices for a beautifully textured garnish.
Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end after blending to ensure a balanced flavor profile.
The soup is freezer-friendly; store it in specific soup containers for later use!

Serving Suggestions

Pair with crusty bread or gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches for a fulfilling meal.
Serve as an elegant appetizer in small coffee cups at a dinner party.

Tips

Ensure the mushrooms are fresh and free from blemishes for the best flavor.
To make this dish vegan, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.
Maintain medium heat to avoid burning the garlic, which could create a bitter flavor in your soup.
Don’t rush the simmering process; allowing the soup to cook longer helps develop deeper flavors.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 320
Protein: 7g
Sodium: 620mg
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 24g
Sugar: 5g

FAQs

Can I use dried mushrooms for this recipe?

Yes, dried mushrooms can be used but they must be rehydrated before adding to the soup. Simmer them in warm water for about 30 minutes, then add them as you would fresh mushrooms.

How long can I store the soup in the fridge?

The Cream of Mushroom Soup can be refrigerated for up to four days in an airtight container. Just heat it gently on the stovetop before serving.

Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Reheat it thoroughly when ready to enjoy.

What can I add to thicken the soup more?

If you’d like a thicker consistency, consider blending in some cooked potatoes or adding a thicker vegetable puree.

Conclusion

This Cream of Mushroom Soup is a delightful combination of rich flavors and comforting textures, making it a beloved choice for any occasion. Its simplicity and versatility allow you to personalize it according to your palate and dietary needs. Whether as a satisfying meal on a cold day or a starter for a special dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Serve it alongside freshly baked bread or a gourmet salad, and you have a perfect meal! Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations in the comments, and enjoy every spoonful of this delightful creation.