Cream Of Mushroom Soup Revealing Ancient Secrets For Modern Foodies

Delving into the velvety richness of Cream of Mushroom soup, one can almost taste the earthy mushrooms simmered gently in a creamy broth that invites an exploration of nuanced flavors.

A staple in many kitchens, this iconic classic transcends the ordinary, embodying the spirit of gourmet indulgence in every spoonful. In its warm, comforting embrace, you’ll uncover the vibrant dance of ingredients harmoniously melding together – a testament to the sublime art of cooking.

Beyond the mere sensory delight, this culinary masterpiece also nurtures a thriving community of food enthusiasts, all joined by their shared love for this classic soup. Its versatile character caters to both the quintessential home cook and the refined gourmet, subtly echoing a reminder of its timeless appeal.

Delve into the fascinating journey of this beloved dish as we unpack its hidden depths and celebrate its enduring charm in the culinary world. So, ready to immerse yourself in the Cream of Mushroom experience?

What Is Cream Of Mushroom Soup?

Cream of Mushroom Soup is a smooth, creamy concoction celebrated for its rich, earthy flavors. It’s traditionally made by simmering a variety of mushrooms in a savory broth, followed by the addition of cream or milk to impart a velvety texture. 

Often flavored with herbs and spices like garlic, thyme, and black pepper, the soup offers a comforting, warm experience. Besides being enjoyed as a standalone dish, it’s also commonly used as a base for numerous sauces, casseroles, and other recipes.

History Of Cream Of Mushroom Soup

Cream of Mushroom soup has a storied history, with its roots spanning continents and centuries. Mushrooms have been used in cooking for their unique flavor and texture since ancient times. 

However, the creamy variation of mushroom soup gained prominence in France during the 18th century when cream soups were considered a mark of refined cuisine. In the 1930s, Campbell’s introduced their canned Cream of Mushroom soup in America, transforming it into a pantry staple. 

This convenience food brought the luxurious French classic into everyday American households, where it became a versatile ingredient, loved for both its standalone appeal and its role in numerous recipes.

Interesting Facts About Cream Of Mushroom Soup

• Versatility at its Best: Cream of Mushroom soup is not just a standalone dish but also a beloved ingredient in a variety of other recipes. It’s a kitchen superstar, from casseroles and stews to sauces and gravies.
• Campbell’s Influence: Campbell’s Soup Company revolutionized the popularity of this soup. After the introduction of their canned version – 1930s, it fast became a staple in American households. The Green Bean Casserole, a traditional American Thanksgiving dish, was originally created by a Campbell’s employee.
• Mushroom Varieties: The type of mushrooms used can greatly affect the flavor and texture of the soup. Whether it’s the common button mushroom, the flavorful cremini, or the luxurious truffle, each variant brings its own unique twist.
• Health Benefits: Mushrooms are packed with essential nutrients like Vitamin D, selenium, and antioxidants, making Cream of Mushroom soup a delicious way to incorporate these into your diet.
• French Origins: While the soup enjoys global popularity today, its origins can be traced back to 18th-century French cuisine, where cream-based soups symbolized elegance and refinement.

What Makes Cream Of Mushroom Soup Special?

• Flavor Profile: The earthy flavors of the mushrooms harmoniously meld with the rich, creamy broth to create a delicious balance that’s both comforting and satisfying. The depth and complexity of its flavor make it a culinary delight.
• Versatility: Its ability to perform double duty makes it stand out. It can be a hearty soup on its own or serve as a critical ingredient in many dishes, such as casseroles, stews, and sauces.
• Texture: This soup’s smooth, creamy consistency offers a uniquely pleasing mouthfeel, while the mushroom pieces provide a delightful contrast with their chewy texture.
• Health Aspects: Mushrooms are a good source of many essential nutrients like Vitamin D and antioxidants. Thus, the soup offers a tasty way to reap the benefits of these ingredients.
• Cultural Importance: From its roots in French cuisine to its central role in American comfort food, Cream of Mushroom Soup holds a significant place in various culinary traditions around the world.

Ingredients List 

Ingredient Tips 

• Choosing the Mushrooms: Experiment with different types of mushrooms for varied flavors and textures. While button mushrooms are most commonly used, a blend of cremini, shiitake, or portobello can add a deeper flavor profile to your soup.
• Fresh vs. Dried: Be bold in using dried mushrooms. They can lend an intense, concentrated mushroom flavor to the soup, which fresh mushrooms often can’t match.
• The Cream Component: Full-fat dairy tends to offer the richest flavor, but you can also use half-and-half or milk for a lighter soup. Non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk or cashew cream can be used for a vegan version.
• Seasoning: Fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or rosemary can enhance the earthy flavors of the soup. Also, don’t forget the power of simple salt and pepper – they can make all the difference in bringing out the soup’s natural flavors.
• Stock/Broth: A quality broth is key for a flavorful soup. Homemade is best, but if using store-bought, opt for a low-sodium version so you can control the seasoning.
• Roasting the Mushrooms: For an added depth of flavor, consider roasting the mushrooms before adding them to the soup. This will caramelize them, enhancing their umami flavor.
• Thickness: To achieve the desired thickness for your soup, you can use a roux (a mixture of fat and flour), or for a gluten-free option, a slurry (a combination of cornstarch and water) can be used.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

• Proteins: Adding cooked chicken, beef, or seafood can make the soup more substantial. Tofu or beans can be a great addition for vegetarians or vegans.
• Vegetables: Additional vegetables like peas, carrots, or potatoes can be added for extra texture and flavor.
• Cheese: Stir in some grated Parmesan, Gruyere, or cheddar cheese for a richer, creamier texture and taste.
• Herbs and Spices: To enhance the flavor profile, you can add various herbs and spices. Consider garlic, thyme, rosemary, or nutmeg. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a bit of heat.
• Wine or Sherry: A splash of white wine or sherry can add depth and complexity to the soup’s flavor. Make sure to cook off the alcohol.
• Grains: For a heartier soup, you could add cooked rice, barley, or even quinoa.
• Vegan or Dairy-Free Variations: Substitute the cream with coconut, almond, or cashew for a dairy-free or vegan version of the soup.

Recipe Directions 

• Clean the fresh mushrooms and slice them into thin pieces.
• In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sliced leeks. Sauté until they become soft and translucent.
• Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they start to release their moisture and become tender.
• Pour in the white wine and cook for a few minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate.
• Add the homemade chicken or beef stock to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids.
• The soup has to be returned to the pot while stirring in the heavy cream. Start with ¼ cup and add more if desired for a richer taste. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
• Cook the soup for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
• Serve the cream of mushroom soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh chives if desired. You can also drizzle some extra heavy cream on top for added richness.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings For The Recipe 

Variations

• Vegan/Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with olive oil, use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef stock, and replace the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut milk, almond milk, or cashew cream.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always make sure your store-bought broth is gluten-free if you’re not using homemade.
• Different Proteins: To make this soup a full meal, add cooked chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu.

Add-Ons

• Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan, Gruyere, or cheddar cheese for a richer flavor.
• Vegetables: Add peas, carrots, or potatoes for added nutrition and texture.
• Grains: Include cooked rice, barley, or quinoa to make it heartier.
• Herbs and Spices: Incorporate other herbs and spices such as garlic, thyme, rosemary, or nutmeg for extra flavor. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for some heat.

Toppings

• Croutons: Add homemade or store-bought croutons for a delightful crunch.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, chives, or thyme on top for color and flavor.
• Sauteed Mushrooms: For added mushroom flavor and texture, sauté some extra mushrooms and use them as a garnish.
• Drizzle of Cream or Olive Oil: Finish the soup with a heavy cream or high-quality olive oil drizzle for extra richness.
• Bacon Bits: If you’re not vegetarian, crispy bacon bits add a smoky flavor and crunchy texture.

Scaling The Recipe 

Scaling Up the Recipe

Double or triple the ingredients to make a larger batch of cream of mushroom soup. For example, double the recipe by using 2 pounds of mushrooms, 16 tablespoons of butter, 2 medium yellow onions, 12 cups of stock, 2 large leeks or 4 small leeks, 2 cups of white wine, ½ to 1 cup of heavy cream, and adjust the seasoning. 

Increase the cooking time slightly to ensure thorough cooking and flavor melding.

Scaling Down the Recipe

For a smaller portion of cream of mushroom soup, halve or reduce the ingredients. For example, halve the recipe using ½ pound of mushrooms, 4 tablespoons of butter, ½ medium yellow onion, 3 cups of stock, ½ large leek or 1 small leek, ½ cup of white wine, 2 to 4 tablespoons of heavy cream, and adjust the seasoning. 

Reduce the cooking time accordingly for proper cooking and balanced flavors.

What Is Used For Garnishing ?

• Herbs: Fresh herbs, such as parsley, thyme, or chives, add a pop of color and fresh flavor. They should be finely chopped and sprinkled on top just before serving.
• Mushrooms: Sautéed or roasted mushrooms can be used to enhance the mushroom flavor while also providing an appealing visual touch.
• Cream: A drizzle of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream can create a visually pleasing contrast with the soup’s color and add an extra touch of richness.
• Olive Oil or Truffle Oil: Drizzling a high-quality olive oil or truffle oil on top can add a touch of sophistication and additional depth of flavor.
• Croutons or Toasted Bread Crumbs: For a crunchy contrast to the soup’s creaminess, you can top it with homemade or store-bought croutons or even some toasted bread crumbs.
• Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a swirl of melted Gruyere can add both flavor and visual appeal.
• Bacon Bits: If you’re not vegetarian, crispy bacon bits can add a smoky flavor and a contrasting texture.
• Freshly Ground Pepper: A simple sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper can be a lovely garnish, adding a bit of spice and a visually pleasing speckled appearance to the soup.

Can I Make The Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot ?

Slow Cooker

• Sauté the mushrooms, onion, and leeks in a skillet with the butter until they are softened, then transfer to the slow cooker.
• Add the wine to the skillet and deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits. Pour this into the slow cooker along with the stock.
• Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• When the cooking time is almost finished, blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or a countertop blender in batches (be careful with hot soup!).
• Stir in the heavy cream, season to taste with salt and pepper, then cover and let it heat through for another 15-30 minutes before serving.

Instant Pot

• Using the sauté function, melt the butter in the Instant Pot. Add the mushrooms, onion, and leeks, and sauté until they are softened.
• Add the wine, and let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
• Add the stock, then seal the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
• Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
• Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or a countertop blender in batches (again, be careful with hot soup!).
• Stir in the heavy cream and season to taste with salt and pepper. The heat of the soup should be sufficient to warm the cream, but you can use the sauté function to heat it up a bit more if necessary.

Can I Use Store Broth Or Should I Make My Own?

• Homemade Broth: If you have the time and resources, homemade broth is a wonderful option. It typically has a deeper flavor in contrast to the store-bought versions, and you have full control with regard to the ingredients. It is especially beneficial if you’re monitoring sodium intake or avoiding specific additives or allergens.

• Store-Bought Broth: This is a convenient, time-saving option. Look for low-sodium varieties so you can control the seasoning of your soup. Also, consider organic or higher-quality brands for better flavor.

Can I Use Different Types Of Fish/Meat/Pasta/Vegetables?

• Fish/Meat: Adding cooked meat or fish can make the soup heartier. Consider adding cooked chicken, beef, or pork. If you prefer seafood, cooked shrimp or flaky fish like salmon would complement the earthy mushroom flavors well. Add cooked meats or fish towards the end of cooking to avoid overcooking.

• Pasta: Adding pasta can make the soup even more filling. Small pasta shapes such as orzo, ditalini, or even tortellini can be cooked separately and added to individual servings of soup. Be careful adding pasta directly to the soup, as it can absorb a lot of liquid and become mushy if left in the soup for too long.

• Vegetables: Adding vegetables can increase the nutritional content of the soup. Consider adding peas, carrots, spinach, or kale. If leafy greens are being added, stir them until the end of cooking, so that they retain their vibrant color and don’t overcook. Root vegetables should be added earlier in the cooking process. 

Success Tips-Tips And Tricks For The Recipe 

• Use a variety of fresh mushrooms for depth of flavor.
• Sauté the onions and leeks until softened for a flavorful base.
• Let the soup simmer to allow the flavors to develop fully.
• Be cautious when blending hot liquids to avoid accidents.
• Adjust the cream, salt, and pepper to your taste preference.

Prepping Tips

• Mushroom Cleaning: Mushrooms absorb water like a sponge. Instead of rinsing them, gently brush off dirt with a soft or damp cloth.
• Knife Skills: Make sure your knife is sharp. A dull knife can make chopping vegetables more difficult and potentially unsafe.
• Ingredient Prep: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before cooking. This includes cleaning and slicing your mushrooms, dicing your onion, and slicing your leeks.
• Leek Cleaning: Leeks can have a lot of dirt hidden in their layers. Slice the leeks first, then soak and swish them in a water bowl to remove any hidden grit.

Cooking Time Tips

• Simmering Time: Let the soup simmer for the full suggested time to meld the flavors together. Rushing this process could result in a less flavorful soup.
• Blending Hot Soup: Allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to avoid steam buildup, which can cause a hot soup explosion. If using a countertop blender, blend the soup in batches and keep the lid vented to allow steam to escape.
• Adding Dairy: Add the cream at the end of the cooking process. Boiling the soup after adding cream can cause it to curdle.
• Reheating: If you need to reheat the soup over low heat to avoid scorching the bottom or curdling the cream.
• Additional Ingredients: If adding extra ingredients like pasta, meat, or vegetables, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Add cooked meat or pasta towards the end to avoid overcooking, while raw vegetables should be added earlier in the process.

Nutritional Values 

The nutritional values for the cream of mushroom soup can vary depending on factors such as the type and amount of ingredients used, cooking methods, and serving size. 

As a general estimation, a serving of cream of mushroom soup (approximately 1 cup) may contain around 150 calories, 20 grams of fat, 10 grams of carbohydrates, and 5 grams of protein. It’s important to note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific recipe variations and ingredient choices. 

If you have specific dietary concerns or preferences, it is recommended to calculate the nutritional values based on the specific ingredients and quantities used in your recipe.

What Are Total Calories In The Recipe?

The total calorie content of the cream of mushroom soup recipe can be estimated to be around 1,470 to 1,670 calories. This estimation includes ingredients such as fresh mushrooms, butter, onion, homemade stock, leeks, white wine, and heavy cream. 

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands, measurements, and cooking techniques used. To get a more accurate calorie count, it is recommended to calculate the nutritional information based on the exact ingredients and quantities used in your recipe.

Dietary Restrictions For The Recipe

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as all ingredients, especially the stock, are certified gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free/Lactose Intolerant: This recipe contains butter and heavy cream, which are dairy products. To make it dairy-free, you could substitute the butter with a non-dairy alternative like olive oil and the heavy cream with non-dairy milk such as almond, coconut, or cashew milk.
• Nut-Free: This recipe is naturally nut-free, but if you choose to substitute the heavy cream with nut milk (like almond or cashew), it would no longer be suitable for those with nut allergies.
• Vegan/Vegetarian: As written, this recipe uses chicken or beef stock and butter, making it unsuitable for vegans. However, it could be easily modified to be vegan by substituting animal-based ingredients with vegetable stock and plant-based butter or olive oil. The cream could be replaced with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream.
• Low-Sodium: If you’re watching your sodium intake, you could choose a low-sodium stock or make your own to control the sodium content. Also, be mindful of how much additional salt you add.
• Keto/Low-Carb: This soup could be suitable for a ketogenic or low-carb diet, as it is high in fats from butter and cream and low in carbohydrates. Always check the specific dietary guidelines you’re following.

Health Benefits Of The Recipe

• Mushrooms: Known for their immune-boosting properties, mushrooms are rich in selenium, vitamin D, and antioxidants. They also have anti-inflammatory benefits and provide a source of dietary fiber.
• Onions and Leeks are excellent sources of vitamins C and B6, folate, and manganese. They also contain flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory, anti-cholesterol, and antioxidant effects.
• Homemade Broth: Whether chicken or beef, homemade broth can be a good source of protein. If made using bones, it can also contain collagen, which is good for joint health.
• Heavy Cream: While high in fat and calories, heavy cream does provide some nutritional benefits, including calcium and vitamin A. It also adds to the feeling of fullness or satiety when eating the soup.
• White Wine: Although most of the alcohol burns off during cooking, the remaining wine can provide some heart-healthy benefits in moderation.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make Soup Lower In Sodium?

• Use a Low-Sodium Stock: Opt for low-sodium or unsalted chicken or beef stock versions. Alternatively, you can make your own homemade stock and control the salt content yourself.
• Limit Added Salt: Be mindful of the amount of salt you add during cooking. You can always allow individuals to season their own portions to taste at the table.
• Add More Herbs and Spices: Use herbs and spices for flavor instead of salt. Herbs like thyme or rosemary and spices like black pepper or garlic powder can add a lot of flavors.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients often have a richer flavor than canned or preserved ones, reducing the need for extra salt.
• Lemon Juice or Vinegar: A little bit of acidity can brighten up the flavors of the soup, reducing the need for extra salt.

How Can I Make Soup Lower In Sugar?

• Watch the Wine: While the sugar content in wine is relatively low, especially in dry white wines, you could choose to omit the wine or replace it with more broth if you’re concerned.
• Use Fresh or Homemade Ingredients: When using broth or stock, make sure to use a homemade version or a store-bought one with no added sugars. Some store-bought broths may have hidden sugars, so it’s always best to check the labels.
• Watch Your Toppings: If you’re adding any toppings or extras to your soup, be aware of their sugar content. For example, some breads, croutons, or cured meats may contain added sugars.
• Be Mindful of Sweet Vegetables: Some vegetables, like onions and leeks, do have a natural sugar content. While it’s generally not enough to be concerning, those on extremely strict low-sugar diets may want to be aware of this.

How To Serve The Soup At Its Best?

• Temperature: Serve the soup hot but not boiling. A properly heated soup will bring out the flavors better.
• Garnish: Top the soup with a swirl of cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley, or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and visual appeal.
• Serving Dish: Use warmed bowls to serve the soup. This helps to keep the soup hot for longer.
• Pairings: Serve the soup with fresh crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A glass of white wine could also pair well.
• Consistency: If you prefer a chunkier soup, reserve some of the sautéed mushrooms and add them back into the soup after blending. For a silkier soup, blend all the mushrooms and pass the soup through a fine-mesh strainer before serving.
• Timing: To maintain its fresh taste and temperature, try to serve the soup immediately after it’s ready. However, like many soups and stews, the flavors of Cream of Mushroom Soup can improve after a day or two, making it a great make-ahead meal.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement The Recipe

• Crusty Bread: There’s nothing quite like a piece of warm, crusty bread to dip into a creamy soup. A fresh baguette, a hearty sourdough, or a rustic whole-grain loaf would all pair well.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing for any soup, a grilled cheese sandwich adds a satisfying crunch and gooey richness. Try using a sharp cheddar or creamy brie for a gourmet twist.
• Green Salad: A light, fresh salad can balance out the richness of the soup. Try mixed greens with a vinaigrette dressing and add-ons like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of goat cheese.
• Roasted Vegetables: Simple roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or carrots can complement the soup while adding a bit of texture and additional nutrients.
• Quiche or Savory Tart: A slice of quiche or a savory tart, perhaps with spinach, cheese, or smoked salmon, can turn the soup into a more substantial meal.
• Charcuterie Board: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and artisan breads can complement the soup and turn the meal into a delightful spread.

How Long Can I Store The Soup?

Properly stored, homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup will last for about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. To further extend the soup’s shelf life, you can freeze it.

When refrigerating, store the soup in an airtight container or heavy-duty plastic bag to prevent it from absorbing other flavors in the refrigerator and keep it as fresh as possible.

If you want to freeze the soup for later use, cool it down first, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top as the soup will expand as it freezes. Frozen soup can keep for about 2 to 3 months.

To reheat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight if it’s frozen. Then, warm it over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture. You may need to add a little extra liquid (such as broth or cream) to thin it out, as it may thicken after being stored.

Can I Make The Soup In Advance?

• Cook the Soup: Follow your recipe to prepare and cook the soup as usual.
• Cool: Allow the soup to cool a bit before storing. However, you don’t want it to cool completely at room temperature due to safety concerns (bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature).
• Store: Place the slightly cooled soup in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.
• Reheat: When you’re ready to serve the soup, reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir frequently until it’s warmed through. If the soup has thickened too much during storage, you can add a bit of broth or cream to thin it out.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

• Pasta Sauce: Heat the leftover soup until it’s a little thinner than a regular sauce, then toss it with freshly cooked pasta. Add some grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables for a more substantial meal.
• Chicken or Pork Gravy: You can use the leftover soup as a gravy for roasted or grilled chicken, pork, or even beef. It can also be served over mashed potatoes or rice.
• Pot Pie Filling: Use the soup as a chicken or vegetable pie filling base. Just add cooked meat and/or vegetables, then top with a puff pastry and bake.
• Casserole: Cream of Mushroom Soup is often used as a casserole base. Mix it with cooked rice or pasta, chicken or turkey, and vegetables, then top with cheese and bake.
• Stuffed Pancakes or Crepes: Make savory pancakes or crepes and fill them with soup. Fold or roll up and bake until warm and slightly crispy.
• Soup Risotto: Use the leftover soup as a part of the liquid when making risotto. The creamy, mushroom-flavored soup will add a lot of depth to your dish.
• Freeze It: If you can’t use the leftovers immediately, you can freeze them for later use. Just be sure to use a freezer-safe container.

Special Tools/Equipment 

• Large pot: Use a large pot to cook the soup and accommodate all the ingredients.
• Cutting board and knife: These are essential for chopping the mushrooms, onions, leeks, and other ingredients.
• Stirring utensil: Use a spoon or spatula for stirring and sautéing the ingredients.
• Immersion blender or regular blender: If you prefer a smooth texture, an immersion blender or regular blender can be used to puree the soup.
• Measuring cups and spoons: These are helpful for accurately measuring the ingredients.
• Ladle: A ladle is useful for serving the soup into bowls.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I Use Canned Mushrooms Instead Of Fresh Mushrooms?

While fresh mushrooms are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned mushrooms as a substitute if needed. However, keep in mind that the taste and texture may differ slightly.

Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian Or Vegan?

Yes, you can make the cream of mushroom soup vegetarian or vegan. Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative, such as vegan butter or olive oil, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken or beef stock. Replace heavy cream with a non-dairy cream or coconut milk for a vegan version.

Can I Freeze The Cream Of Mushroom Soup?

Yes, you can freeze the cream of mushroom soup for future use. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Can I Add Other Vegetables To The Soup?

Absolutely! While the recipe focuses on mushrooms, you can add other vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or potatoes for added flavor and texture. Just ensure that the additional vegetables complement the mushroom flavor.

How Long Will The Cream Of Mushroom Soup Stay Fresh In The Refrigerator?

The cream of mushroom soup can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Make sure to transfer it to a covered container once it has cooled down and promptly refrigerate it to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Cream Of Mushroom Soup Revealing Ancient Secrets For Modern Foodies

5 from 1 vote

Recipe by Hanna Barnes Course: Soup Recipe

Servings

12

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

45

minutes

Calories

200

kcal

Cream of mushroom soup is a rich and velvety soup made with a medley of fresh mushrooms, onions, leeks, and a flavorful homemade stock. Adding white wine and heavy cream adds depth and creaminess to the soup.

Ingredients

• Fresh mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, baby bella, or portobello

• Butter

• Medium yellow onion, peeled and diced

• Homemade chicken or beef stock

• Large leek or small leeks, white and light green parts, sliced

• White wine

• Heavy cream

• Sea salt

• Freshly ground black pepper

• Chopped fresh chives (optional)

Step-By-Step Directions 

• Preparation Steps
  Clean the mushrooms by gently brushing off dirt with a soft or damp cloth. Slice them.
  Peel and dice the onion.
  Clean the leek(s) by slicing off the dark green parts, cutting the white and light green parts into rings, and thoroughly washing to remove any grit.
• Cooking Directions
  Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the mushrooms, onion, and leeks, and cook until softened and lightly browned, about 10 minutes.
  Add the wine, stirring to deglaze the pot and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Let it simmer until the wine has reduced by half.
  Pour in the stock, season with salt and pepper to taste, then let the soup simmer for about 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Blending & Final Touches
  Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender directly in the pot) and puree until smooth. Remember to let the soup cool a bit before blending, and be sure to vent the blender to let out steam.
  Return the soup to the pot over low heat and stir in the heavy cream. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
• Serving
  Ladle the soup into bowls, drizzle with a swirl of heavy cream if desired, and sprinkle with freshly chopped chives for a touch of color and additional flavor. Serve hot.
• Additional Options
  Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms for varied flavors. For a vegan variation, substitute the chicken/beef stock with vegetable stock and use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. Enjoy your homemade Cream of Mushroom soup, a comfort food classic.

Recipe Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g-PT9hK8wPM

Notes

• Mushroom Varieties: You can combine different mushroom varieties like cremini, shiitake, baby bella, or portobello to add depth and complexity to the flavor. Experiment with different mushrooms to find your preferred combination.
• Homemade Stock: While homemade chicken or beef stock is recommended for the best flavor, you can also use store-bought stock as a convenient alternative.
• Wine Selection: Choose a dry white wine for the recipe, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. The wine adds acidity and depth to the soup. If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute it with additional stock.
• Creamy Consistency: The amount of heavy cream can be adjusted based on your preference for creaminess. Start with a quarter cup and add more if desired. You can also substitute with a lighter cream option like half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.
• Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning, including salt and pepper, according to your preference. Add other herbs or spices like thyme or garlic powder to enhance flavor.
• Garnish Options: Besides chopped fresh chives, you can also garnish the soup with other toppings like croutons, a drizzle of truffle oil, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added texture and flavor.

• Author
• Recent Posts

Hanna Barnes

Hey everyone, my name is Hanna, and I am a writer here at Soup Chick! I came across Lana’s website a few years back, and it reignited my love for making homemade broths and soups that wouldn’t break the bank, and would help me get all of my veggies in!

Here at SoupChick.com, I can offer you a range of different recipes to try, from basic broths, to making your own slow cooker chicken tortilla soup (trust me on this one- it is divine).

I hope that you enjoy making your own as much as I love finding new recipes for you!

Latest posts by Hanna Barnes (see all)

• Tasty And Easy-To-Make 22 Soup And Broth Recipes For Weight Loss - September 25, 2023
• 52 Seasonal Soups To Perfectly Elevate Your Creations Through The Year - September 22, 2023
• Italian Ribollita Soup Recipe: A Hearty Taste Of Tuscany’s Best-Kept Secret - September 21, 2023