Imagine a soul-warming soup that's not just delicious, but also surprisingly nutritious! This Healthy Cream of Mushroom Soup is the ultimate culinary magic that will make your taste buds dance and your body thank you. Packed with rich, earthy mushroom flavors and a velvety smooth texture, this recipe proves that healthy eating can be incredibly indulgent and satisfying. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or simply someone who loves a comforting bowl of goodness, this soup is about to become your new favorite go-to recipe.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by thoroughly washing the mushrooms and slicing them uniformly. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release aromatic flavors.
- Introduce sliced mushrooms to the pot, stirring to coat them evenly with oil and onions. Cook for 6-8 minutes until mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown slightly.
- Pour vegetable broth into the pot, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow the soup to cook for 15-20 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a standard blender to puree approximately half the mixture, creating a creamy yet textured consistency.
- Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in heavy cream, ensuring it's fully incorporated without curdling.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the cream.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme for added flavor and visual appeal.
Tips
- Choose the Right Mushrooms: Use a mix of mushroom varieties like cremini, shiitake, or button mushrooms for a more complex flavor profile.
- Don't Rush the Sautéing: Take your time caramelizing onions and mushrooms to develop deep, rich flavors. Patience is key to a restaurant-quality soup.
- Blending Technique: When pureeing, leave some mushroom pieces whole for added texture. A partial blend creates a more interesting mouthfeel.
- Cream Temperature Matters: Add cream slowly and at a low temperature to prevent curdling. Stir continuously for a smooth, silky finish.
- Fresh Herbs are a Game-Changer: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley just before serving can elevate the entire dish's flavor and presentation.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance for meal prep.
- For a Lighter Version: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative without compromising on creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
