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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms
Start by cleaning and slicing the mushrooms. You can use a mix of mushrooms for added depth of flavor, but even basic button mushrooms work well. Cremini mushrooms provide a deeper, more robust flavor, while shiitake or portobello add a gourmet twist.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms, Onion, and Garlic
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook them for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mushrooms will release their moisture and shrink in size. Cook them until they are golden brown and tender.
Step 3: Add the Flour and Broth
Once the mushrooms are cooked, sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir to coat everything evenly. The flour will help to thicken the soup. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Slowly pour in the broth while stirring, ensuring the flour mixes well with the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and add the thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Blend the Soup (Optional)
For a smooth and creamy texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier soup, only blend half of the mixture, leaving some mushroom pieces intact.
Step 5: Add the Cream
After blending, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the soup to warm through without bringing it to a boil. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the creamy mushroom soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve it hot with crusty bread for a complete meal or enjoy it as a luxurious starter.
Tips for the Perfect Cream of Mushroom Soup
- Choosing the Right Mushrooms: While button mushrooms are mild and readily available, using a mix of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or portobello can add complexity to the soup’s flavor.
- For a Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with olive oil, the broth with vegetable broth, and the cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute. The result will be just as creamy and flavorful.
- Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more flour, or you can simmer the soup a bit longer before adding the cream to reduce the liquid further.
- Make it a Meal: Add cooked chicken, sautéed leeks, or even a handful of cooked wild rice for added texture and to turn this soup into a heartier meal.
Why Make It at Home?
Homemade cream of mushroom soup offers a depth of flavor that you simply can’t get from a can. It’s free from additives and preservatives, and you can control the amount of salt, cream, and other ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs. Plus, the satisfaction of making this classic comfort food from scratch is a reward in itself!
Creamy, savory, and full of hearty goodness, this homemade cream of mushroom soup is perfect for a cozy night in or as a versatile base for casseroles and sauces. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never go back to the canned stuff again!