Mushroom Soup

Mushroom Soup Recipe from France with Lemon and Butter

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Mushroom soup is a classic dish that is loved by many for its rich and earthy flavors. This creamy soup is perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a dinner party. In this article, we will explore the history of the recipe, cooking tips and tricks, as well as the nutrition information of this delicious soup.

History

Mushroom soup has been enjoyed for centuries, with variations of the recipe found in different cultures around the world. The use of mushrooms in cooking dates back to ancient times, with evidence of mushrooms being used in culinary dishes in ancient Egypt, China, and Rome. The modern version of mushroom soup as we know it today is believed to have originated in France, where it became a popular dish in the 18th century.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) fresh mushrooms
juice of 0.5 lemon
1 tbsp butter
2 tbsp shallots or green onions, minced
0.5 bay leaf
0.25 tsp dried thyme
2 cups whipping cream
1.5 cups chicken stock
1 tsp salt
1.5 tsp ground pepper
1 tsp cornstarch
1 tbsp water
1 tbsp parsley, chopped

How to prepare

Finely chop the mushrooms, then combine them with lemon juice.
Melt the butter in a large skillet and add the shallots, sautéing them.
Add the mushrooms, bay leaf, and thyme, and cook while stirring frequently until the liquid completely evaporates.
Blend in the cream, chicken stock, salt, and pepper, and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat.
Dissolve the cornstarch in water, then add it to the soup and simmer for 20 minutes.
Ladle the soup into heated bowls and sprinkle with parsley.

Variations

Add a splash of white wine for a more complex flavor.
Use different types of mushrooms such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms for a unique twist.
Add a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche for a creamy finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When selecting mushrooms for your soup, choose fresh mushrooms that are firm and free of blemishes.

- To enhance the flavor of the soup, sauté the mushrooms and onions until they are caramelized before adding the liquid ingredients.

- For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup in a blender before adding it back to the pot.

- Garnish the soup with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for added flavor and visual appeal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the mushroom soup with a side of crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious mushroom soup is to sauté the mushrooms and onions until they are caramelized, which will enhance the flavor of the soup. Be sure to simmer the soup on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are lactose intolerant, you can use coconut milk or almond milk as a substitute for the cream in the soup. You can also use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version of the soup.

Make Ahead Tips

You can make the mushroom soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the soup on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the mushroom soup with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Mushroom soup pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. You can also serve it with a light and refreshing salad for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover mushroom soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of mushroom soup contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of mushroom soup contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of mushroom soup contains approximately 25 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of mushroom soup contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Mushroom soup is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, potassium, and selenium.

Alergens

Mushroom soup may contain dairy and gluten allergens. Please check the ingredients list for any allergens before consuming.

Summary

Mushroom soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is a great option for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Summary

Mushroom soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich and creamy texture, this soup is sure to warm you up on a cold day. Try making this delicious recipe at home and enjoy the earthy flavors of mushrooms in every spoonful.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. A warm and comforting bowl of Mushroom Soup. It was a chilly autumn day and I had come across the recipe in an old cookbook that belonged to my dear friend Martha. She was a wonderful cook and had a knack for finding the most delicious and comforting recipes.

I remember sitting at Martha's kitchen table, sipping a cup of tea and flipping through the pages of her cookbook. As soon as I saw the recipe for Mushroom Soup, I knew I had to try it. Martha had told me that it was a family recipe that had been passed down for generations. I could sense the love and tradition behind it, and I was eager to give it a go.

The ingredients were simple and easy to find – fresh mushrooms, onions, garlic, butter, flour, chicken broth, and cream. I could already imagine the rich and earthy flavors coming together in a steaming bowl of soup. Martha had assured me that it was a foolproof recipe, perfect for a cozy night in or a special gathering with loved ones.

I decided to make the Mushroom Soup for a small dinner party that I was hosting the following weekend. I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen, following the recipe step by step. The aroma of sautéed mushrooms and onions filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

As the soup simmered on the stove, I couldn't help but think back to my own childhood. My own grandmother had been a wonderful cook as well, and she had taught me many of her own recipes. I remembered the hours we had spent together in her kitchen, kneading dough for fresh bread or stirring pots of bubbling soup. Those memories were precious to me, and I hoped that one day I could pass down my own recipes to future generations.

Finally, the Mushroom Soup was ready. I ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The first spoonful was pure bliss – rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. My guests raved about the soup, asking for seconds and even thirds. I felt a sense of pride and satisfaction knowing that I had successfully recreated Martha's family recipe.

As the years went by, I continued to make Mushroom Soup for family gatherings, holidays, and quiet nights at home. Each time, it brought me back to that moment in Martha's kitchen, discovering the recipe for the first time. I experimented with different variations, adding herbs, spices, or even a splash of wine. But no matter how I tweaked the recipe, the comforting essence of the soup remained the same.

I often think of Martha and wonder if she knew how much her recipe had meant to me. Sadly, she passed away many years ago, but her legacy lives on in the dishes that I continue to make in my own kitchen. I like to imagine that she would be proud to know that her Mushroom Soup has become a staple in my repertoire, a beloved recipe that I will always hold dear.

In the end, cooking is more than just following a set of instructions – it's about creating memories, sharing traditions, and nourishing both body and soul. And for me, the recipe for Mushroom Soup will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the simple joys that can be found in a warm bowl of soup shared with loved ones.