Velvety Garlic and Mushroom Soup
Indulge in the rich, velvety texture and robust flavor of this homemade Garlic and Mushroom Soup. This recipe combines sautéed onions, earthy mushrooms, and just the right hint of garlic for a comforting bowl of soup that's perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with friends. Using low-fat evaporated milk as an alternative can lighten the dish without sacrificing creaminess. The addition of Parmesan cheese elevates the flavors, while the option to use homemade chicken stock infuses freshness and depth. This versatile recipe is easily adaptable, making it a go-to for any occasion. Serve it with crusty bread for a delightful meal!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter
3 tablespoons (Melted)
Onion
1 small (Chopped)
Garlic
1-2 tablespoons (Fresh minced (optional or to taste))
Dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon (Dried)
Fresh sliced mushrooms
6 cups (Sliced)
Cayenne pepper
1 pinch (Ground)
Flour
6 tablespoons (All-purpose)
Chicken broth
2 (14 1/2 ounce) cans (Undiluted)
18% table cream
1 cup (Liquid)
Fresh ground black pepper
1 teaspoon (Ground (or to taste))
Parmesan cheese
1/3-1/2 cup (Grated (optional or to taste))
Salt
to taste (Seasoning)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan or pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic (if using), dried thyme, and cayenne pepper, sautéing for about 3 minutes until the onions are translucent.
2
Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes, until they are tender and have released their moisture.
3
In a separate bowl, mix one can of chicken broth with the flour to create a smooth paste. Gradually add this mixture to the pot along with the remaining can of broth, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and cook for 2 minutes, or until the soup has thickened.
4
Lower the heat to a simmer and gently stir in the 18% table cream, allowing it to heat through without boiling.
5
Season the soup with freshly ground black pepper and let it simmer on low for about 15 minutes to deepen the flavors. Adjust the seasoning with salt to taste.
6
Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese (if using) until melted and well combined, then serve warm.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flavor profile of Velvety Garlic and Mushroom Soup?
This soup offers a rich, velvety texture and robust flavor, combining earthy mushrooms with a hint of garlic and savory Parmesan cheese.
How many mushrooms do I need for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 6 cups of fresh sliced mushrooms.
Can I make this mushroom soup low-fat?
Yes, you can lighten the dish by using low-fat evaporated milk as an alternative to the table cream without sacrificing the creaminess.
What type of cream is recommended?
The recipe specifies using 1 cup of 18% table cream for a rich texture.
Is the garlic mandatory in this soup?
The garlic is optional and can be adjusted to your personal taste preference.
How do I thicken the mushroom soup?
Thickening is achieved by mixing 6 tablespoons of flour with one can of chicken broth to create a smooth paste, then boiling it for 2 minutes.
What spices are used for seasoning?
The soup is seasoned with dried thyme, a pinch of cayenne pepper, fresh ground black pepper, and salt.
How long should I sauté the onions and garlic?
Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in butter for about 3 minutes until the onions become translucent.
Can I use homemade chicken stock?
Yes, using homemade chicken stock is encouraged as it infuses the soup with freshness and depth.
What is the role of Parmesan cheese in this recipe?
Parmesan cheese elevates the flavors and adds extra creaminess when stirred in at the very end.
How long do the mushrooms need to cook?
The sliced mushrooms should be cooked for 6-8 minutes until tender and their moisture has been released.
Should I let the soup boil after adding the cream?
No, you should lower the heat to a simmer and gently stir in the cream, allowing it to heat through without boiling to prevent curdling.
What should I serve with this soup?
This soup is best served warm with a side of crusty bread for a complete and delightful meal.
How long does the final simmer take?
The soup should simmer on low for about 15 minutes after the cream is added to allow the flavors to deepen.
What kind of broth is used?
The recipe uses two 14 1/2 ounce cans of undiluted chicken broth.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme.
How much butter is required for the base?
You will need 3 tablespoons of butter to melt in the saucepan at the start.
What type of flour is best for this recipe?
All-purpose flour is used to create the thickening paste for the soup.
Is this soup considered an easy recipe?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy and versatile recipe suitable for any occasion.
How much Parmesan cheese should I add?
You can add between 1/3 to 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, depending on your taste.
What size of onion is needed?
One small onion, finely chopped, is sufficient for this recipe.
Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?
As written, it uses chicken broth; however, you can easily adapt it by using vegetable broth instead.
What is the preparation method for the mushrooms?
The mushrooms should be fresh and sliced before being added to the pot.
When do I add the salt?
Salt should be added at the end of the cooking process to adjust the seasoning to your preference.
Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried?
Yes, though you may want to increase the amount slightly as fresh herbs are generally less potent than dried.
Why is cayenne pepper included?
A pinch of ground cayenne pepper is added to provide a subtle depth of flavor and a tiny hint of warmth.
How do I ensure the flour doesn't clump?
Mixing the flour with one can of broth separately into a smooth paste before adding it to the pot prevents lumps.
What is the texture of the soup?
The soup has a velvety, creamy texture thanks to the combination of the flour roux, cream, and sautéed mushrooms.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh minced garlic is recommended for the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
Is this soup good for gatherings?
Absolutely, its comforting nature and sophisticated flavor make it perfect for gatherings with friends.