Mushroom cream soup

Mushroom cream soup - a warm and comforting delicacy

Mushroom cream soup is a classic dish that combines the natural flavors of mushrooms with a velvety texture, offering a unique culinary experience. This recipe is not only simple to make, but it is also an excellent choice for cold days when we seek comfort on our plate. Let's explore together how to achieve a delicious mushroom cream soup, step by step.

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 2 bags of frozen mushrooms (about 500 g)
- 2 medium carrots
- 2 medium onions
- 1 piece of celery of suitable size (about 150 g)
- 3 Knorr vegetable cubes (or another concentrated vegetable broth)
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 400 ml of cream (preferably with a fat content of 20-30%)
- Olive oil or sunflower oil
- Cumin (optional, for flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step by step

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by finely chopping the onion, carrots, and celery. This step is essential as the vegetables will sauté evenly and contribute to a rich aroma. If you are using frozen mushrooms, make sure to let them thaw a bit beforehand to facilitate cooking.

2. Sautéing the vegetables
Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrot and celery and continue to sauté together for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step will add a sweet and savory flavor to your soup.

3. Adding the mushrooms
Now it's time to add the mushrooms to the pot. Stir well and let them cook for about 10 minutes until they release their juice. The mushrooms will add depth of flavor, and the juice they release will contribute to the soup base.

4. Preparing the soup
After the mushrooms have cooked, add about 1 liter of water to the pot. Then add the Knorr vegetable cubes. Let the soup simmer over medium heat until all the vegetables are cooked, about 15-20 minutes. At this point, you can also add a pinch of cumin for extra flavor.

5. Vegetable puree
Once the vegetables are cooked, strain the soup to remove the large pieces. Keep the liquid! Add the cooked vegetables to a blender, along with 2 cups of the strained soup. Blend everything until you obtain a smooth paste. This step will give the soup a creamy consistency.

6. Thickening the soup
Pour the vegetable paste back into the pot, add the strained soup again, and mix well. In a small bowl, combine the flour with a little cold water, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Pour the flour mixture into the soup, stirring continuously. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the soup thickens slightly.

7. Finalizing the soup
After the soup has thickened, add the cream and mix well. Turn off the heat and let the soup cool slightly. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper to your liking. If you like a more tangy note, you can add a few drops of lemon juice.

8. Serving
Mushroom cream soup is served hot, garnished with crunchy croutons and, optionally, a drizzle of olive oil on top. If desired, you can also add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for an extra touch of freshness.

Practical tips

- Fresh vs. frozen mushrooms: If you have access to fresh mushrooms, use them! They will add a more intense flavor. Make sure to wash them well and slice them before adding them to the soup.
- Gluten-free flour: If you prefer a gluten-free version, you can use cornstarch instead of flour. Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little cold water and add it to the soup to thicken it.
- Vegan version: Replace the cream with a nut or soy-based plant cream and use vegetable cubes without animal products.

Nutritional benefits

Mushroom cream soup is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables and mushrooms. Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and can help strengthen the immune system. Additionally, the cream adds healthy fats that aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, mushroom cream soup can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers. You can freeze individual portions for easy access.

- What can I add for a more intense flavor?
For a more complex flavor, you can add chopped garlic or even a few slices of crispy bacon, which will provide a contrast of textures and flavors.

- How can I pair this soup with other dishes?
Mushroom cream soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a savory cheese tart. You can also serve it alongside a slice of fresh or toasted bread.

Mushroom cream soup is not only a simple recipe but also one that brings a touch of comfort to every bowl. Its richness of flavors and velvety texture make it perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking and enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: -2 bags of frozen mushrooms -2 carrots -2 onions -1 medium-sized celery root -3 Knorr vegetable cubes -2 tablespoons of flour -cumin (optional) -oil -400 ml sour cream