Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness? Look no further! This creamy mushroom soup recipe with rice is the perfect easy recipe for a cozy night in. It's surprisingly quick to make, bursting with flavor, and satisfyingly healthy. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. It's the ultimate quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough to serve to guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound cremini mushrooms, sliced (or a mix of mushrooms for extra depth of flavor!)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer taste)
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a vegan option
- 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for a thicker soup)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your delicious soup!
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Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 8-10 minutes. This browning process intensifies the earthy mushroom flavor.
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Build the Soup Base: If using flour (for a thicker consistency), whisk it into the mushroom mixture. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup naturally. Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, ensuring no lumps form.
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Simmer and Cook the Rice: Add the thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then stir in the rice. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the soup has thickened slightly.
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Stir in the Cream: Remove the pot from the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream). Avoid boiling after adding the cream, as this can cause it to curdle.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the creamy mushroom soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, delicious homemade cooking creation!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add protein: Cooked chicken, sausage, or even lentils would make this a heartier meal.
- Make it vegan: Use vegetable broth and coconut cream instead of chicken broth and heavy cream.
- Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thinner soup, add more broth. If you like it thicker, simmer uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This creamy mushroom soup with rice is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It's a fantastic example of how easy it is to create healthy meals from scratch. Enjoy this best recipe and let us know what you think!