mushroom soup

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound (450g) mushrooms, sliced (a mix of button, cremini, and shiitake works well)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for a thicker soup)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
   • In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Cook Mushrooms:
   • Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their juices and begin to brown, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Season and Add Thyme:
   • Stir in the thyme leaves and cook for an additional minute.
4. Make the Roux (Optional):
   • For a thicker soup, sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
5. Add Broth:
   • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Blend the Soup:
   • Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth. If using a blender, be careful with the hot liquid and blend in batches.
7. Add Cream:
   • Return the pureed soup to the pot (if using a blender) and stir in the heavy cream. Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer.
8. Season to Taste:
   • Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
9. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Enjoy your homemade creamy mushroom soup with some crusty bread or a light salad for a delicious and comforting meal!