Cream of Mushroom Soup

I love fresh mushrooms, particularly when they are cooked. I don't like canned mushrooms very well. My love for mushrooms is a learned skill. In college I decided I really wanted to like mushrooms. So I taught myself, how, I'm not entirely sure. But it worked, and they are a staple in my cooking. (Olives are next on my list to teach my palate to like. So far the class isn't going too well.) :)

However, when I think of cream of mushroom soup, I usually think of the condensed variety served up from a can, and used in quick casserole cooking. Not terribly appetizing to me. But, when I found this recipe, I knew I had to try it. My husband and I both loved it. It's already been repeated and there are plans to make another pot this week.

Give this light version a try. It's perfect for a first course. Though I'm certain it would make a lovely lunch served up with a fresh green salad. (Please don't let the dullness of the photo dissuade you from trying this recipe. It's truly a wonderful soup!)



CREAM OF MUSHROOM SOUP
(slightly adapted from Comfort Food Fix by Ellie Krieger)
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1 Tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
10 oz button mushrooms, thinly sliced
10 oz cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
3-4 c. beef broth (depending on how thick you want the soup)
1 1/2 tsp chopped fresh thyme, or 1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/4 c. dry white wine
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
3 Tbsp heavy cream

Heat the oil in a soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, about 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook, about 1 minute. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release most of their liquid, 7 to 8 minutes.

Add the broth and thyme and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in the wine, salt, and pepper and cook for 3 minutes. Turn off the heat and cool slightly. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until it is mostly smooth. (Alternatively, in 1 c. amounts you can blend the soup in a blender.) Stir in the cream and warm through.

Serves 4.