Creamy Mushroom Soup with Thyme & Toasted Bread

Creamy Mushroom Soup with Thyme & Toasted Bread

Creamy Mushroom Soup with Thyme & Toasted Bread is a warm and comforting dish perfect for any time of year. This velvety soup is rich in flavor, thanks to the earthy mushrooms and fragrant thyme. Paired with crispy toasted bread, it makes a delightful meal or side dish.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it’s simple to make and uses common ingredients found in most kitchens. Second, it’s a healthy option packed with nutrients from the mushrooms. Finally, the soup is deliciously creamy and will warm you up on a chilly day. Enjoying this soup with toasted bread adds a satisfying crunch and enhances the overall experience.

How to Make Creamy Mushroom Soup with Thyme & Toasted Bread

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 500g (1 lb) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or mix)
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Crusty bread, for serving

Directions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion in butter and olive oil over medium heat until it becomes translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook until the mushrooms are softened and golden. Then stir in the fresh thyme.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and cook for 1–2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the broth, ensuring there are no lumps.
4. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes. Blend the soup until smooth, or leave it a bit chunky, depending on your preference.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, season with salt and pepper to taste, and heat through.
6. Serve the soup hot with a drizzle of cream, extra mushrooms, and fresh thyme on top.

How to Serve Creamy Mushroom Soup with Thyme & Toasted Bread

To serve this delightful soup, ladle it into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of cream and extra sautéed mushrooms. Serve alongside slices of crusty toasted bread for a heartier meal. This pairing will not only enhance the flavor but also add a satisfying texture to your dining experience.

How to Store Creamy Mushroom Soup with Thyme & Toasted Bread

If you have leftover soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until hot. Avoid boiling it, as the cream may separate.

For the toasted bread, you can store it in a paper bag at room temperature for a day or two, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftover bread, consider freezing it for future use.

Tips to Make Creamy Mushroom Soup with Thyme & Toasted Bread

• Use a mix of mushrooms for a richer flavor. You can try cremini, shiitake, or button mushrooms.
• If you want to make the soup lighter, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
• Don’t skip the thyme; it adds a wonderful flavor that complements the mushrooms perfectly.
• Toast the bread just before serving for the best texture.

Variation

For a fun twist, you can add some cooked chicken or crispy bacon to the soup for extra protein. Mixing in a splash of white wine during cooking can also elevate the flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors mingle!

2. Is there a vegan version of this soup?
Yes! You can use olive oil instead of butter, skip the heavy cream or use coconut cream, and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.

3. Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.

Enjoy your Creamy Mushroom Soup with Thyme & Toasted Bread, a delicious meal that’s sure to bring comfort to your table!