Forest Mushroom Cream Soup with Croutons

Forest Mushroom Cream Soup with Croutons is a comforting and savory dish that brings the earthy flavors of woodlands into a warm, creamy bowl. Perfect for a chilly day, this soup combines the richness of forest mushrooms with the smoothness of cream, all balanced by the subtle sweetness of carrots and the heartiness of potatoes. The soup is easy to prepare and offers a wonderful way to incorporate seasonal mushrooms into your menu. The addition of crispy homemade croutons provides a delightful texture contrast to the creamy broth. It's a versatile dish that can be served as an elegant starter for a dinner party or a satisfying main course. The ingredients are simple, yet they come together to create a complex and satisfying flavor profile. Customizable with various spices and herbs, this soup can be tailored to suit your taste. Garnished with fresh thyme or parsley, it becomes a feast both for the eyes and the palate.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 kg forest mushroom mix (pre-cooked)
• 2 medium onions
• 3 carrots
• 5-6 potatoes
• 3 cloves garlic
• 250 ml heavy cream
• 3 liters water
• 1 loaf of toast bread
• Oil for frying

Spices:

• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Thyme to taste

Preparation Time

Total Time: 80 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by slicing the onions and carrots into rounds. Add them to a pan with a bit of oil and sauté until slightly golden and softened.
2. Add the pre-cooked forest mushrooms to the pan and stir them into the vegetables.
3. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and thyme according to your taste preferences.
4. Peel the potatoes and cut them into small cubes. Add them to the pan with the vegetables and mushrooms.
5. Pour in the water, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Add a little more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the vegetables are thoroughly cooked.
7. In the meantime, take the loaf of toast bread and cut it into small cubes. Place the cubes on a baking sheet.
8. Toast the bread cubes in an oven preheated to 200°C (392°F) until they are golden brown and crispy.
9. Once the vegetables are cooked through, reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously.
10. Allow the soup to come to a low boil to ensure all the flavors meld together.
11. Remove the soup from the heat and use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
12. Return the soup to low heat and quickly bring it back up to temperature.
13. Serve the hot soup, garnishing each bowl with a handful of the toasted croutons.
14. Optionally, sprinkle fresh thyme or parsley over the top before serving to add a fresh aroma.
15. Enjoy this delightful and hearty soup as a standalone dish or as an introduction to a larger meal. Bon appétit!

Tips

• Substitutions: If fresh forest mushrooms are unavailable, use any available mushrooms such as button or portobello.
• Additional Flavors: Add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm depth of flavor.
• Extra Creaminess: For a richer soup, add a dollop of sour cream when serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 150 per serving
• Protein: 4g
• Fats: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 14g

Variations

• Vegan Option: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and omit croutons or use a vegan bread.
• Low-Carb: Replace potatoes with cauliflower.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes for some extra heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Cheese Pairing: Serve with a side of sharp cheddar or brie.
• Garnishes: Top with finely chopped chives or fresh parsley.
• Drink Pairing: Pairs well with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

Best Places

1. Mushroom Bar - Delightful and fresh mushroom dishes served in a cozy setting. Location: 13 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis, Paris, France
2. The Wildwood Cafe - Known for their rustic soups and artisan bread. Location: 24 High Street, Edinburgh, UK
3. Forest Fare Restaurant - Offers a seasonal menu featuring local mushrooms. Location: 10 Forest Road, Vancouver, Canada
4. Gourmet Soup Kitchen - Famous for a variety of international soup recipes. Location: 5th Ave and 45th St, New York City, USA
5. Herbal Delight Bistro - Combines fresh herbs with hearty mushroom dishes. Location: 100 Queen St W, Toronto, Canada
6. Mushroom Lounge - Offers an innovative take on traditional mushroom dishes. Location: 21b Baker Street, London, UK
7. The Soup House - Known for their comforting and flavorful soups. Location: 50 Block Street, San Francisco, USA
8. Fungi Fantasia - Specializes in unique mushroom-infused entrees. Location: 32 Rua Augusta, Sao Paulo, Brazil
9. The Green Shed - Eco-friendly cafe serving organic mushroom fare. Location: 89 Orchard Rd, Singapore
10. Shroom Cafe - Urban café dedicated to gourmet mushroom cooking. Location: 110 Collins Street, Melbourne, Australia