Are you craving a comforting yet healthy meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this delicious shiitake mushroom soup recipe! This quick dinner idea is perfect for chilly evenings or a light yet satisfying lunch. Packed with umami flavor and earthy goodness, this homemade soup is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is sure to impress. Let's dive into this flavorful adventure!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz shiitake mushrooms, stems removed and sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat recommended)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
-
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.
-
Cook the mushrooms: Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms to the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start to brown slightly. This step enhances their deep umami flavor.
-
Simmer the soup: Pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk. Add the soy sauce, ginger, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
-
Blend (optional): If you prefer a smoother soup, carefully use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup to your desired consistency. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
-
Season and serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Tips for the Best Shiitake Mushroom Soup:
- Mushroom Selection: Choose fresh, high-quality shiitake mushrooms for the best flavor. Avoid mushrooms that are bruised or slimy.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pot: Ensure you have enough space in your pot for the mushrooms to cook evenly and release their moisture. If necessary, cook them in batches.
- Broth Choice: Vegetable broth provides a lighter flavor, while chicken broth adds richness. Experiment to find your preference!
- Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk creates a creamier and more decadent soup. However, light coconut milk can be used for a lower-calorie option.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of simmering for added nutrients.
- Boost the protein: Include cooked tofu or shredded chicken for a heartier soup.
- Creamy alternative: Instead of coconut milk, try using heavy cream or half-and-half for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the ingredients used. This is an estimate and should not be considered a precise calculation. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for accurate data based on your specific ingredients.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This easy recipe provides a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the wonderful flavors of this homemade shiitake mushroom soup!