Creamy Mushroom Soup

 Creamy Mushroom Soup is a rich, velvety soup that's full of earthy, savory flavors, perfect for a cozy meal. It’s easy to make and can be adjusted to suit dietary preferences. Here's a recipe for a classic creamy mushroom soup:

Ingredients:

1 lb (about 4 cups) fresh mushrooms (cremini, button, or a mix), sliced

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil for a dairy-free version)

4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free version)

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme, if preferred)

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté the vegetables:

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until softened.

Add the garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for another 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become golden brown.

2. Add seasonings:

Stir in the thyme, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the mixture cook for another minute to release the flavors.

3. Make the base:

If you'd like a thicker soup, sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well, cooking for 1-2 minutes to create a roux (this step is optional but adds thickness).

Add the broth, stirring to combine, and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

4. Blend the soup:

For a smooth, creamy texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches, then return it to the pot.

5. Add cream:

Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and bring the soup back to a simmer. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

6. Serve:

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme. You can also drizzle a bit more cream on top for extra richness.

This Creamy Mushroom Soup is velvety and flavorful, with the earthiness of mushrooms complemented by the richness of cream. It’s per

fect as a starter or a light meal, especially on a chilly day!