Before diving into the soul-warming details of cream of mushroom soup, let’s talk pairings. This dish has a velvety texture and a rich, earthy flavor that can really elevate your meal. Here are a few ideas to match with this comfort food classic:
- Crusty Bread: A slice of freshly-baked artisan bread is perfect for dipping. It soaks up the soup beautifully.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette brightens the meal and balances the richness of the soup.
- Grilled Cheese: Because who doesn’t love the combo of gooey cheese and creamy soup? Dip away!
In the heart of winter, when the chill seems to seep into your very bones, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of cream of mushroom soup. This recipe draws on classic flavors while keeping things fresh and rich.
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I’ve served up this dish at family gatherings, and it never fails to bring smiles and memories of cozy evenings spent together. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure to craft a soup that not only warms the soul but also nourishes the body.
What is Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe?
Cream of mushroom soup is a thick, hearty soup made primarily from mushrooms and cream. It’s celebrated for its rich and earthy flavors, perfect for chilly days or as a base for other dishes.
This soup can shine on its own or serve as an ingredient in various recipes, like casseroles or pasta sauces. The secret lies in the balance of flavors and the quality of ingredients used.
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- Panera Bread Creamy Tomato Soup
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- Copycat Panera Bread Baked Potato Soup
Why This Recipe Works?
1. Earthy Depth from Mushrooms: The use of fresh cremini or baby bella mushrooms adds a meaty quality to the soup. Their intense flavor contributes to the overall richness.
2. Creaminess Without Guilt: Raw cashews, when blended, create a creamy texture that rivals heavy cream. This makes the soup not just delicious, but also a healthier option.
3. Layered Flavors: The addition of garlic, onions, and herbs creates an aromatic base. Sautéing these ingredients releases their natural sugars, adding sweetness and depth.
4. Versatile Ingredients: This recipe can easily adjust to dietary preferences. Whether you are vegan or gluten-free, it adapts beautifully without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
Gather the following ingredients to embark on your soup-making journey:
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (adds an aromatic depth)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (a hint of warmth)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons fine grain sea salt
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 1/4 cup cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil
- 6 cups hot vegetable stock or broth
- 1 1/2 pounds cremini or baby bella mushrooms, cleaned and roughly chopped
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme or herbes de Provence
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How To Make This Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe?
Step 1: Prepare Your Cashews
First, soak your raw cashews in water for at least 2 hours or overnight. This achieves that perfect creamy texture. If you’re short on time, a quick 15-minute soak in boiling water also does the trick.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onions turn translucent. This step is crucial for developing flavor.
Step 3: Add the Mushrooms
Add the chopped mushrooms to the pot. Stir well and allow them to cook down for about 10 minutes. Watch as they release their moisture and shrink in size. Not only does this process enhance the flavor, but it also fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
Step 4: Incorporate the Wine and Seasonings
Pour in the white wine, smoked paprika, thyme, and salt. Stir everything together. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. The wine adds a beautiful depth of flavor, lifting the earthy notes of the mushrooms.
Step 5: Blend It Up
Now it’s time to add your hot vegetable stock. Carefully transfer the mixture to a blender (or use an immersion blender right in the pot) and blend until smooth. If you’re using a blender, you may need to do this in batches.
Step 6: Create Creaminess
Return the blended soup to the pot. Drain and rinse your soaked cashews. Add them to the soup and blend again until creamy.
Step 7: Final Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust with more salt or pepper as desired. Heat gently just until warmed through.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the creamy concoction into bowls. A sprinkle of parsley can provide a nice color contrast.
Tips & Tricks
- Toast the Cashews: For an added flavor boost, toast the cashews lightly before soaking them; it enhances their natural nuttiness.
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have access to fresh herbs, use them. Fresh thyme or parsley can elevate the flavor further.
- Don’t Skip the Broth: High-quality vegetable broth will make a considerable difference. Look for stocks that are low in sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This soup reheats beautifully!
- Customize It: Feel free to throw in additional veggies like spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost.
Nutrition Information
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) of this cream of mushroom soup contains:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
How Do You Store The Leftovers?
Leftover cream of mushroom soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
What Sides Would Complement Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe?
- Crunchy Croutons: The delightful crunch of homemade croutons serves as the perfect contrast to the soup’s smoothness. Simply cube some stale bread, toss it in olive oil, and bake until golden.
- Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread brings a comforting element to the meal. Its crispy exterior and soft inside are delightful with every spoonful of soup.
- Simple Arugula Salad: This peppery salad can cut through the creaminess of the soup. Toss fresh arugula with a squeeze of lemon, a drizzle of olive oil, and shaved parmesan for a refreshing side.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
- Cashews: If cashews are unavailable, try using silken tofu blended until smooth. It also provides creaminess and is a good alternative for those avoiding nuts.
- White Wine: You can substitute white wine with additional vegetable broth. For a non-alcoholic option, use a splash of apple cider vinegar mixed with broth for a tangy kick.
- Cremini Mushrooms: If these aren’t accessible, button mushrooms can work just fine. They offer a milder flavor but still carry the essence of mushroom soup.
- Vegetable Stock: If you don’t have vegetable stock at hand, chicken stock works in a pinch. For a vegetarian option, make a quick broth with water, salt, and dried herbs.
Cream Of Mushroom Soup Recipe
Equipment
- blender
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup dry white wine adds an aromatic depth
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika a hint of warmth
- 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons fine grain sea salt
- 3 garlic cloves peeled and minced
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 1/4 cup cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil
- 6 cups hot vegetable stock or broth
- 1 1/2 pounds cremini or baby bella mushrooms cleaned and roughly chopped
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme or herbes de Provence
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Cashews
- First, soak your raw cashews in water for at least 2 hours or overnight. This achieves that perfect creamy texture. If you’re short on time, a quick 15-minute soak in boiling water also does the trick.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onions turn translucent. This step is crucial for developing flavor.
Step 3: Add the Mushrooms
- Add the chopped mushrooms to the pot. Stir well and allow them to cook down for about 10 minutes. Watch as they release their moisture and shrink in size. Not only does this process enhance the flavor, but it also fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
Step 4: Incorporate the Wine and Seasonings
- Pour in the white wine, smoked paprika, thyme, and salt. Stir everything together. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. The wine adds a beautiful depth of flavor, lifting the earthy notes of the mushrooms.
Step 5: Blend It Up
- Now it’s time to add your hot vegetable stock. Carefully transfer the mixture to a blender (or use an immersion blender right in the pot) and blend until smooth. If you’re using a blender, you may need to do this in batches.
Step 6: Create Creaminess
- Return the blended soup to the pot. Drain and rinse your soaked cashews. Add them to the soup and blend again until creamy.
Step 7: Final Seasoning
- Taste the soup and adjust with more salt or pepper as desired. Heat gently just until warmed through.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
- Ladle the creamy concoction into bowls. A sprinkle of parsley can provide a nice color contrast.
Notes
- Toast the Cashews: For an added flavor boost, toast the cashews lightly before soaking them; it enhances their natural nuttiness.
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have access to fresh herbs, use them. Fresh thyme or parsley can elevate the flavor further.
- Don’t Skip the Broth: High-quality vegetable broth will make a considerable difference. Look for stocks that are low in sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This soup reheats beautifully!
- Customize It: Feel free to throw in additional veggies like spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! Cream of mushroom soup tastes even better the next day. Consider making it on a Sunday for an easy warm-up lunch throughout the week.
2. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Certainly! Feel free to add chopped carrots, celery, or even spinach for extra nutrition and texture.
3. How do I adjust the thickness of the soup?
If the soup is too thick for your liking, simply add more vegetable broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, simmer it a bit longer to reduce.
4. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free! Ensure that your vegetable broth and any added bread, if used, are also gluten-free.
5. Can I use dried mushrooms?
Yes! If using dried mushrooms, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes before adding them to the soup. Use the soaking liquid as part of your vegetable broth for added flavor.
6. How can I enhance the flavor profile?
Experiment with different herbs and spices. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of soy sauce can elevate the flavor further.
Conclusion
Cream of mushroom soup isn’t just a dish; it’s a reminder of cozy moments spent around the dining table and the inherent comfort found in a warm bowl. It becomes more than just a meal when prepared with love and the right ingredients.
Whether you’re looking for a refreshing lunch, a delightful dinner starter, or a way to use up some aging mushrooms, this recipe stands resilient. So, roll up your sleeves and give it a try. Your taste buds (and your friends or family) will thank you!
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Hi! I'm Mary Lee. I love helping people eat yummy and healthy food. I live in Oregon. Cooking is my happy place. Let's make tasty dishes together!
