Soup - puree with cheese and mushrooms

Cheese and Mushroom Cream Soup - A Fall Delicacy

When it comes to dishes that warm the soul and mind, cheese and mushroom cream soup takes the top spot. This creamy and flavorful dish perfectly blends the smooth texture of cheese with the taste of mushrooms, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether served at a family dinner or during a gathering with friends, this soup is the ideal choice.

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 100-150 g of melted or soft cheese (preferably high-quality cheese for an intense flavor)
- 200-300 g of fresh or frozen champignon mushrooms (fresh mushrooms provide superior flavor)
- 1-2 onions (medium-sized for a subtle taste)
- 3-4 medium potatoes (to give the soup consistency)
- Olive oil or butter (for sautéing the vegetables)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh herbs (parsley or dill for added freshness)
- Red chili pepper (optional for those who prefer a spicy taste)

Recipe history:
Cheese and mushroom cream soup is a recipe that comes from the culinary tradition of fall dishes, when mushrooms are at their peak. In many cultures, this dish was created to capitalize on seasonal ingredients, and the combination of cheese and mushrooms quickly became a popular favorite. Cooked with patience and passion, the soup becomes not just food but an unforgettable experience, evoking memories and moments of conviviality.

Preparation steps:

1. Prepare the ingredients:
- Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes for even cooking.
- Chop the onion randomly, but it doesn't need to be very fine; texture will matter in the soup.
- Slice the mushrooms thinly or leave them whole if you prefer a more rustic texture.

2. Cook the mushrooms:
- In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or a small piece of butter. Heat over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Then add the mushrooms and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the water from the mushrooms has completely evaporated (about 5-7 minutes). This step is essential to intensify the flavor.

3. Boil the potatoes:
- In a separate pot, add water and bring to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the diced potatoes.
- Boil the potatoes for 10-15 minutes or until they become soft and easy to pierce with a fork.

4. Prepare the soup:
- When the potatoes are ready, drain them and add them to a blender along with the mushroom and onion mixture.
- Add the cheese cut into small pieces and a little vegetable broth (or water) to achieve a smoother consistency. Blend until you get a fine puree.
- Pour the puree back into the pot and add the remaining broth. Place on low heat and stir constantly until the soup begins to boil.

5. Season and serve:
- Once the soup has started to boil, turn off the heat and season with salt, pepper, and chopped fresh herbs.
- If you like a spicy taste, you can add chopped red chili pepper.

6. Serving:
- Serve the cheese and mushroom cream soup hot, garnishing with a little fresh parsley and, for added crunch, accompany with fresh breadsticks or croutons.

Practical tips:
- If you want to achieve an even more intense flavor, you can add some herbs, such as thyme or basil, during cooking.
- Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or porcini, to add a more complex note.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the taste will improve as the ingredients infuse.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use mozzarella cheese?
- Yes, but the result will be a less flavorful soup. A combination of cheese with butter and mozzarella can provide a pleasant texture.

2. What can I do if I don’t have a blender?
- You can use an immersion blender to achieve a creamy texture. Alternatively, you can leave the soup with a more rustic texture without fully blending it.

3. How can I improve the nutritional value of the soup?
- Add additional vegetables, such as carrots or celery, during cooking to increase the intake of vitamins and minerals.

4. What goes well with this soup?
- It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a cheese and vegetable sandwich. Additionally, a dry white wine can perfectly complement the meal.

In conclusion, cheese and mushroom cream soup is not just a simple recipe, but a true culinary indulgence. With a bit of creativity and patience, you can transform ordinary ingredients into a delicacy that will delight the taste buds of your loved ones. Enjoy!