Mushroom cream soup

Mushroom cream soup is a culinary dish that combines the subtlety of flavor with a velvety texture, transforming an ordinary meal into a refined gastronomic experience. This dish is not only healthy but also extremely versatile, as it can be served as an appetizer or as a main course alongside a fresh salad. Over time, this recipe has gained popularity due to its rich flavors and simple yet delicious ingredients.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g mushrooms (preferably Champignon or oyster mushrooms)
- 300 g celery (about one small celery root)
- 1 medium onion
- 3 tablespoons of sour cream (for a creamy taste)
- 1 egg (to enrich the texture)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons of butter (for sautéing the vegetables)
- 600 ml water (or vegetable broth for added flavor)

Preparing the mushroom cream soup:
1. Cleaning and preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the mushrooms, celery, and onion. The mushrooms can be quickly rinsed under running water and then dried with a kitchen towel. Cut the mushrooms into quarters. Dice the onion and celery into small cubes for even sautéing.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a medium-sized pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become translucent and soft. This step is essential as it will add a flavorful base to your soup.

3. Adding the mushrooms: Once the onion and celery are ready, add the chopped mushrooms. Stir well to coat them with the flavored butter. Let them sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process will enhance the mushroom aroma.

4. Boiling the soup: Add 600 ml of water or vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, or until the mushrooms are fully cooked and tender.

5. Straining the soup: Once the mushrooms are cooked, use a strainer to separate the soup, keeping the liquid. This will be used to adjust the consistency of the cream soup. The strained vegetables can be set aside temporarily.

6. Preparing the cream: In a bowl, mix the sour cream with the egg. This mixture adds a special creaminess to the soup. If desired, you can also add some extra spices to this mix.

7. Blending the soup: Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the cooked mushrooms and vegetables. Gradually add the reserved liquid until you reach the desired consistency. It's important not to rush this step to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.

8. Finalizing the dish: Return the blended soup to low heat, adding the sour cream and egg mixture. Allow it to simmer for 2 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent the egg from curdling. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.

9. Serving: Serve the mushroom cream soup hot, garnished with crispy bread croutons or fried mushroom strips. A sprig of fresh parsley can add a touch of color and flavor.

Practical tips:
- Use fresh mushrooms for the best results. Dried mushrooms can be used, but they need to be rehydrated before adding them to the recipe.
- For a vegan version, you can substitute the sour cream with plant-based cream and the egg with a binding agent like cornstarch.
- Add some herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the soup's flavor.
- If you have leftover soup, you can store it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or freeze it for later use.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This mushroom cream soup is a healthy choice, containing approximately 180 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, especially vitamin D, while celery provides a good amount of fiber and potassium. This dish is filling and can be an excellent option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned mushrooms? While it's possible, fresh mushrooms offer superior flavor and texture.
- How can I enhance the soup? Add some crispy bacon strips or garlic croutons for an even more intense flavor.
- What drinks pair well with the soup? A dry white wine or mint lemonade are excellent choices to accompany this elegant soup.

Mushroom cream soup is a dish that can transform an ordinary meal into an unforgettable experience. Whether served at a special dinner or a casual everyday meal, this recipe is simple, quick, and full of flavor. Enjoy your meal!