Creamy Mushroom Soup

—

### **How to Make Creamy Mushroom Soup**

1. **Prepare the Mushrooms**: Clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove dirt. Avoid rinsing them under water to prevent sogginess.

2. **Sauté the Vegetables**: In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.

3. **Cook the Mushrooms**: Add the mushrooms to the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown.

4. **Make the Roux**: Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms, stirring well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

5. **Add the Broth**: Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

6. **Blend (Optional)**: For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup. Skip this step for a chunkier texture.

7. **Add Cream and Seasonings**: Stir in the heavy cream and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

8. **Garnish and Serve**: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

—

### **Tips for the Perfect Mushroom Soup**

– **Choose fresh mushrooms**: A mix of button, cremini, and shiitake mushrooms creates a richer flavor.
– **Don’t overcook the cream**: Add cream towards the end and heat gently to prevent curdling.
– **Experiment with flavors**: Add a splash of sherry or white wine for depth, or sprinkle nutmeg for a hint of sweetness.
– **Thicker soup**: Add a bit more flour or simmer longer to achieve your desired consistency.

—

### **How to Serve Creamy Mushroom Soup**

– **As a starter**: Serve in small bowls with a drizzle of truffle oil for an elegant touch.
– **As a main course**: Pair with a green salad or a crusty baguette for a hearty meal.
– **With toppings**: Add croutons, grated Parmesan, or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.

—

### **Why This Recipe Works**

The combination of fresh mushrooms and creamy broth creates a luxurious soup that’s both hearty and comforting. The flour and butter roux provides a silky texture, while the thyme and garlic enhance the natural umami flavors of the mushrooms. This classic recipe is perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home.

—

### **Conclusion**

Creamy Mushroom Soup is a timeless dish that combines simplicity with indulgence. Whether you’re seeking comfort on a cold day or serving an elegant appetizer, this recipe delivers every time. Try it out and savor the earthy, creamy goodness of homemade mushroom soup!