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Instructions
1. Sauté the Mushrooms
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until golden and softened, about 8–10 minutes.
- Remove a small portion of mushrooms for garnish, if desired, and set aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics
- Stir in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Thicken the Base
- Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture, stirring well to coat.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Add the Broth
- Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Blend the Soup
- Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer it to a blender in batches.
- For a chunkier texture, blend only part of the soup.
6. Add Cream and Seasonings
- Stir in the heavy cream and dried thyme.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with the reserved sautéed mushrooms and fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Mushrooms: For the best flavor, choose firm, fresh mushrooms. A mix of varieties like cremini, shiitake, and portobello adds depth.
- Blend Carefully: If using a blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending to prevent spills.
- Make It Lighter: Substitute heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk for a lighter version.
Variations
- Vegan Option: Replace butter with olive oil, use vegetable broth, and swap heavy cream for cashew cream or coconut milk.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or sage for an aromatic twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this creamy soup with warm, crusty bread or flaky biscuits.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad or a sandwich for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream to restore the consistency.
Why This Soup Stands Out
The deep, earthy flavors of the mushrooms paired with the creamy, rich texture make this Creamy Mushroom Soup a timeless favorite. It’s a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl—whether you’re looking for comfort on a chilly evening or impressing guests with a gourmet starter.
Indulge in this classic soup, and let the rich flavors and creamy texture transport you to a cozy haven. Enjoy!
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