Are you craving a rich, creamy, and utterly comforting bowl of mushroom soup? Look no further! This recipe recreates the magic of Mellow Mushroom's beloved mushroom soup, bringing the restaurant experience right to your kitchen. It's easier than you think to make this delicious, healthy meal from scratch, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat. Get ready to savor every spoonful of this homemade goodness!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 8 ounces shiitake mushrooms, sliced (or substitute with more cremini)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup dry sherry (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread (for serving)
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat 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.
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Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced cremini and shiitake mushrooms to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 8-10 minutes. This step is crucial for developing deep mushroom flavor.
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Make a Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup.
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Add Broth and Seasoning: Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, ensuring no lumps form. Add the dry sherry (if using), thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Stir in Cream: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Heat through gently; do not boil. The cream adds a luxurious texture and richness to the soup.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping. The contrasting textures and flavors create a truly satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Mushroom Soup:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: When sautéing the mushrooms, work in batches if necessary to ensure they brown properly and don't steam.
- Use a variety of mushrooms: The combination of cremini and shiitake mushrooms provides a complex and delicious flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with other types of mushrooms as well!
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your preference.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and reheat gently before serving.
Variations:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Use vegetable broth and omit the sherry. For a creamier vegan version, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Truffle Oil: Drizzle a small amount of truffle oil over each serving for an extra touch of luxury.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This mellow mushroom mushroom soup recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. It's a fantastic example of how easy and rewarding homemade cooking can be, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal. Enjoy!