Savory Mushroom and Cheese Soup in Bread Bowl

This delightful dish combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the rich taste of cheese, all served in a warm and crispy bread bowl. The soup uses a blend of common and wild mushrooms, making it both versatile and customizable based on availability and personal preference. Creamy and hearty, this soup offers a comforting warmth perfect for chilly days. The bread bowl not only adds a unique presentation but also enhances the dish by absorbing the cheesy broth, offering a delightful texture contrast. The preparation is straightforward, requiring minimal cooking skills, and can be completed in a short amount of time, making it an ideal option for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings. The final touch of broiled cheese crust on top adds a delicious crunch that complements the soft bread and creamy soup underneath. Perfect as a main course or a decadent appetizer, this dish provides a restaurant-quality experience at home. Garnish with smoked paprika for an added depth of flavor and an enticing aroma. Whether enjoyed alone or with family and friends, this mushroom and cheese soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 100g grated hard cheese (such as Džiugas)
• 2 cups chopped mushrooms (use either common or a mix with wild mushrooms)
• 2 small rectangular loaves of bread
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 2 cups vegetable broth

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat the oven to 200ºC (about 390ºF).
2. In a pan, warm 1 tablespoon of oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat until the butter melts.
3. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which takes about 3–4 minutes.
4. Stir in the garlic clove and mushrooms, cooking for another 4–5 minutes until the mushrooms are soft.
5. Meanwhile, bring 1 cup of vegetable broth to a simmer in a pot.
6. Add the sautéed mushrooms and onions to the simmering broth. Let it cook for a few minutes, then remove the pot from heat.
7. Use a blender to puree the mushroom mixture until smooth, creating a creamy texture.
8. Return the pot to the stove and add the remaining 1 cup of vegetable broth.
9. Heat the mixture, bringing it to a gentle boil.
10. Set aside 4 tablespoons of the grated cheese for later use and add the rest into the simmering soup, stirring until the cheese melts completely.
11. Turn off the heat once the cheese has dissolved.
12. Slice the bread loaves in half, creating hollow bowls by removing the soft interior, leaving just the crust.
13. Pour the mushroom soup into each bread bowl.
14. Brush the edges of the bread bowls with the remaining tablespoon of oil.
15. Sprinkle the reserved grated cheese over the top of the soup.
16. Place the filled bread bowls on a baking sheet and into the preheated oven.
17. Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese topping becomes golden and slightly crispy.
18. Remove from the oven and dust with smoked paprika for a wonderful aroma.
19. Serve the bread bowls hot, ensuring each has an evenly distributed amount of soup.
20. Enjoy your savory creation with a spoon, gradually tearing off pieces of bread to dip into the soup.

Tips

• For a creamy texture, use a high-speed blender to puree the soup.
• Substitute cheese: If Džiugas is unavailable, try using Parmesan or any other grated hard cheese.
• Add more flavor by incorporating a splash of white wine while cooking the mushrooms.
• If the soup seems too thick, add more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.

Variations

• Vegan option: Replace butter with vegan margarine and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
• Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free bread loaves to create your bread bowls.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a slight heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
• Serve alongside a crisp white wine to complement the earthy mushroom flavors.

Best Places

1. Le Pain Quotidien - Known for its rustic yet elegant dining atmosphere. Location: 2 Rue de l'Ancienne Comédie, Paris, France.
2. The Bread Bar - A cozy spot for a warm, hearty meal. Location: 19 Elgin St, Toronto, Canada.
3. Boudin Bakery - Famous for its bread bowls and Californian cuisine. Location: 160 Jefferson St, San Francisco, USA.
4. Soup Kitchen - A rustic venue specializing in hearty soups and fresh breads. Location: 12 Edge Street, Manchester, UK.
5. Pfistermühle - Offers a charming European ambiance with traditional touches. Location: Pfisterstraße 4, Munich, Germany.
6. Panera Bread - Popular for fresh baked goods and delicious soups. Location: 671 Higdon Ferry Rd, Hot Springs, USA.
7. Paul Bakery - Combines tradition with exquisite tastes. Location: 3 Times Sq, New York City, USA.
8. Brotzeit - Offers a delightful menu with authentic German flavors. Location: 313 Somerset Rd, Singapore.
9. Pasti's Kitchen - Known for marrying local flavors with traditional recipes. Location: 17 Tverskaya St, Moscow, Russia.
10. Bar Tartine - Celebrated for its creative approach to classic dishes. Location: 561 Valencia St, San Francisco, USA.