A warm bowl of fresh cream of mushroom soup with a hint of basil is perfect for any season. This soup is rich, creamy, and full of earthy flavors, making it a delightful appetizer or a light meal on its own.
Cream of Mushroom Soup
Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 30 min
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 500g fresh mushrooms (such as cremini, button, or portobello), sliced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Preparation
Prepare the mushrooms: Clean and slice the mushrooms. Set aside.
Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Cook the mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot. Sauté until they are golden brown and tender, about 8-10 minutes.
Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth. Add dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
Blend the soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree.
Add cream and basil: Return the soup to the pot if blended separately. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Simmer for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Use a mix of mushroom varieties for a deeper flavor.
- Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Add a splash of white wine while cooking the mushrooms for added depth.
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic croutons for a satisfying meal.
Enjoy this creamy, flavorful soup that combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the aromatic freshness of basil, creating a comforting and delicious dish for any occasion.
