Recipe - Creamy Mushroom Soup

On a chilly evening, when the winds whisper through the trees and the world outside seems to hibernate, there's one thing that can provide immediate solace: a steaming bowl of creamy mushroom soup. It's as if this soup was designed by nature itself to offer comfort and warmth, wrapping you in a cozy embrace that transcends seasons. In this culinary journey, we'll explore the art of crafting the perfect creamy mushroom soup, a timeless classic that is as heartening to make as it is to savor. So, let's embark on this gastronomic adventure and learn how to create a bowl of pure comfort in your own kitchen.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: Approximately 4

Ingredients

1 pound (about 450g) fresh mushrooms, sliced (you can use a mix of varieties like cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Method

- Gently wipe the mushrooms clean with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Slice them evenly for even cooking.

- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.

- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

- Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.

- Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

- Gradually pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

- Use an immersion blender or a countertop blender to puree the soup until it's smooth and velvety.

- Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream.

- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.

- Ladle the creamy mushroom soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

- Serve hot and enjoy your homemade, heartwarming bowl of mushroom soup!