Chef John’s Creamy Mushroom Soup

This Chef John’s Creamy Mushroom Soup is a rich, flavorful, and creamy dish that captures the true essence of mushrooms. The secret to its deep flavor lies in the slow caramelization of the mushrooms, which enhances their natural taste and transforms them into a savory base for this comforting soup. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, this soup becomes a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Quick Benefits

• Rich in Flavor: The caramelization of the mushrooms brings out their natural umami, making this soup incredibly rich and satisfying.
• High in Protein: With heavy cream and mushrooms, this soup provides a good amount of protein, making it a filling meal.
• Low in Carbs: With only 12 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this soup is a great option for those following a low-carb diet.
• Comforting: This creamy mushroom soup is the perfect comfort food, ideal for cozy evenings or as a starter for a larger meal.

Essential Ingredients

• Unsalted Butter: Used to sauté the mushrooms and onions, giving the soup its rich base.
• Fresh Mushrooms: The key ingredient, providing both texture and flavor to the soup. Fresh mushrooms caramelize beautifully, releasing their natural juices and enhancing their taste.
• Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the soup when cooked alongside the mushrooms.
• All-purpose Flour: Helps to thicken the soup, creating a creamy texture.
• Fresh Thyme: A fragrant herb that complements the earthiness of the mushrooms and adds a savory note to the broth.
• Garlic: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the soup.
• Chicken Broth and Water: Provide the liquid base for the soup, balancing the richness of the cream and the flavor of the mushrooms.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Adds a rich, creamy texture that turns this soup into a luxurious treat.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the flavors of the mushrooms and other ingredients.

Preparation Steps

1. Cook the Mushrooms: Melt butter in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and a pinch of salt, and sauté until the mushrooms release their juices, about 5 to 10 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking, stirring often, until the juices evaporate and the mushrooms are caramelized, about 15 to 25 minutes. Set aside some attractive mushroom slices for garnish if desired.
2. Cook the Onion: Add the diced onion to the mushrooms and cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Flour and Cook: Stir in the flour and cook, stirring often, to remove the raw flour taste, about 2 minutes.
4. Add Liquid: Add the thyme bundle and garlic cloves, then pour in the chicken broth and water. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour. Remove and discard the thyme bundle.
5. Purée the Soup: Use a blender to purée the soup in batches until it’s smooth and thick.
6. Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and adjust the thickness with more chicken broth or water if necessary. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the reserved mushroom slices and fresh thyme leaves.

Health Benefits

• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Mushrooms provide a variety of vitamins, including B vitamins, and minerals like potassium and iron, which are essential for maintaining good health.
• Healthy Fats: The butter and cream provide healthy fats, which are important for heart health and hormone regulation.
• Good Source of Fiber: Mushrooms and onions are good sources of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health.
• Antioxidants: Mushrooms contain antioxidants like selenium, which help protect cells from oxidative stress and inflammation.

Serving Suggestions

• With Crusty Bread: Serve this creamy soup with a slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette to soak up the rich broth.
• With a Side Salad: Pair the soup with a simple green salad for a light, balanced meal.
• As a Starter: This mushroom soup is a great starter for a larger meal, such as a roast chicken or pasta dish.
• Garnish with Truffle Oil: For an extra luxurious touch, drizzle a little truffle oil on top before serving.

Creative Variations

• Vegan Version: To make this soup vegan, use plant-based butter and coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth for a completely plant-based option.
• Mushroom Medley: Use a variety of mushrooms, such as shiitake, cremini, or portobello, to add more depth and complexity to the flavor.
• Spicy Mushroom Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the soup for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Lover’s Version: Stir in some grated Parmesan cheese or a little cream cheese for extra richness and flavor.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Leftover mushroom soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra broth or water if it becomes too thick.
• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
• Storage for Garnishes: Store any extra garnished mushrooms and thyme separately to maintain their texture and flavor.

Pro Tips

• Caramelize the Mushrooms Slowly: Be patient with the caramelization process. The longer you let the mushrooms cook, the more intense and rich the flavor will be.
• Blend in Batches: When puréeing the soup, blend in small batches to avoid splattering and ensure a smooth consistency.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired texture.
• Season to Taste: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or even a little splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried mushrooms for this soup?
While fresh mushrooms are recommended for this recipe, dried mushrooms can also be used. Simply rehydrate them in warm water and then chop them before adding them to the soup.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

How can I make this soup lighter?
To lighten up the soup, reduce the amount of butter and use a lower-fat version of cream or plant-based cream alternatives. You can also use a lower-sodium broth to reduce the salt content.

Can I use a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Sauté the mushrooms, onions, garlic, and flour as directed, then transfer to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours and blend as needed.

This Chef John’s Creamy Mushroom Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any mushroom lover. With its rich texture and deep flavors, it’s a great addition to your soup repertoire!

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