Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup

Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup Recipe from New England

Region / culture: New England | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup is a rich and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. This soup is made with a variety of wild mushrooms, potatoes, chicken stock, and cream, creating a velvety texture and earthy flavor that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

Mushroom soup has been enjoyed for centuries, with variations of the dish appearing in different cultures around the world. The use of wild mushrooms in this recipe adds a unique and gourmet twist to the classic soup, making it a popular choice for those looking to elevate their culinary skills.

Ingredients

1 large spanish onion, peeled and diced
1 cup diced celery
1 tbsp salted butter
3 cloves garlic
1 lb (454 g) shiitake mushrooms
2 large portabello mushrooms
0.25 lb (113 g) chantarelle mushrooms
2-3 large potatoes, peeled and quartered
6-8 cups chicken stock
4 oz (113 g) light cream
kosher salt, to taste
fresh ground black pepper
2 tsp fresh thyme
2 tbsp sherry wine
2 tsp worcestershire sauce

How to prepare

1. In a large stock pot, melt the butter and sauté the garlic, onions, and celery for 5–8 minutes.
2. Slice all of the mushrooms together and set aside 0.5 cup for garnish.
3. Add the remaining mushrooms and potatoes to the pot and continue to sauté for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the stock and bring it to a boil.
5. Simmer the mixture on medium-high heat until the potatoes are tender, approximately 20 minutes. Remove from heat and add thyme.
6. Puree the mixture in a blender and then return it to the pot.
7. Add sherry, light cream, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Warm the soup through.
8. Meanwhile, sauté the reserved mushrooms in a little olive oil and season them with salt and pepper.
9. Add the sautéed mushrooms to the soup and stir well.

Variations

Add a splash of truffle oil for a luxurious touch.
Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version.
Stir in some cooked wild rice or barley for added texture and heartiness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to sauté the onions, garlic, and celery until they are soft and fragrant before adding the mushrooms and potatoes.

- Use a variety of wild mushrooms for a more complex and interesting flavor profile.

- Puree the soup in a blender for a smooth and creamy texture.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

- Garnish the soup with sautéed mushrooms for an extra touch of elegance.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the vegetables before adding the stock helps to develop the flavors of the soup.

- Pureeing the soup in a blender creates a smooth and creamy texture.

- Simmering the soup allows the flavors to meld together and the potatoes to become tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any combination of wild mushrooms that you prefer or have on hand.

- Substitute heavy cream for light cream for a richer and creamier soup.

- Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version.

Make Ahead Tips

Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup with a drizzle of cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and a few sautéed mushrooms for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup is a good source of vitamin D, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream) and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying and comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Summary

Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup is a luxurious and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a rich and velvety texture, earthy flavor, and nutritious ingredients, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy it with crusty bread and a glass of wine for a truly satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were falling in shades of red and gold, and I was in the bustling city of Paris. I had always been drawn to the charm and romance of French cuisine, and on this particular day, I stumbled upon a quaint little bistro tucked away on a cobblestone street.

As I entered the cozy establishment, I was greeted by the warm aroma of garlic, onions, and herbs simmering in a pot. The sound of laughter and clinking glasses filled the air, and I knew I had found a hidden gem. I settled into a table by the window, eager to sample the menu that boasted traditional French dishes with a modern twist.

When the waiter brought me a steaming bowl of Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup, I was immediately captivated by its rich, earthy aroma. The velvety texture and delicate balance of flavors had me swooning with each spoonful. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to recreate this exquisite dish in my own kitchen.

After finishing my meal, I approached the chef and asked if he would be willing to share his recipe with me. To my surprise, he graciously agreed and invited me into his bustling kitchen. As I watched him work his magic with a medley of fresh wild mushrooms, cream, and fragrant herbs, I felt like I was witnessing a culinary masterpiece in the making.

With his guidance, I meticulously noted down each step and ingredient, making sure to capture every nuance and detail. The chef shared stories of how he had learned the recipe from his grandmother, who in turn had learned it from her own mother. It was a recipe that had been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own unique twist to make it their own.

As I left the bistro that day, clutching the precious recipe in my hands, I felt a sense of pride and excitement. I couldn't wait to recreate the Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup in my own kitchen and share it with my family and friends.

Back home, I gathered all the ingredients I needed - a variety of wild mushrooms, shallots, garlic, thyme, heavy cream, and a splash of white wine. I meticulously chopped, sautéed, and simmered, following the chef's instructions to the letter. The fragrant aroma that filled my kitchen transported me back to that cozy bistro in Paris, and I knew I was onto something special.

When I finally ladled the steaming soup into bowls and garnished it with a drizzle of truffle oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, I couldn't wait to take my first spoonful. The velvety texture and complex flavors danced on my tongue, and I knew I had successfully captured the essence of the Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup that had captured my heart in Paris.

From that day on, the recipe became a staple in my kitchen. I would make it on special occasions, on lazy Sunday afternoons, or simply whenever I needed a comforting bowl of soup to warm my soul. Each time I made it, I would think back to that magical day in the bistro and the kind chef who had shared his recipe with me.

Over the years, I have made slight tweaks and adjustments to the recipe, adding in a pinch of this or a dash of that to make it truly my own. But the heart and soul of the dish remains the same - a celebration of the bountiful flavors of wild mushrooms, the creamy richness of heavy cream, and the timeless tradition of French cuisine.

As I sit here now, stirring a pot of Creamy Wild Mushroom Soup on a chilly autumn day, I can't help but feel grateful for the serendipitous encounter that brought this recipe into my life. It is a reminder of the power of food to connect us, to nourish us, and to bring joy and comfort in even the simplest of moments. And for that, I will always be thankful.