Mushroom soup

Mushroom Soup – A Comforting Culinary Experience

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8

There has always been something special about savoring a steaming bowl of soup, especially when the cold season makes its presence felt. Mushroom soup is a dish that embraces you with its rich aroma, perfect both hot and chilled. This recipe is a combination of simple ingredients, yet it has an incredible impact on the taste buds, deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Whether enjoyed on a fasting day or at a family meal, this soup will bring you comfort and joy.

Ingredients:

- 500-700 g mushrooms (fresh or canned)
- 1 l water
- 1 l borscht (or to taste)
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 red onion
- 1 white onion
- 1 carrot
- 2 parsley sprigs
- 2 parsnips
- 2 green onions
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon curry
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Vegeta (or salt, to taste)
- Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation Method:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning and slicing the mushrooms. I recommend cutting them in two ways: thin slices for texture and small cubes for better integration into the soup. This combination will bring a variety of sensations with each spoonful. Also, chop the red and white onions, grate the carrot, and dice the bell pepper and parsnip.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, pour a little olive oil and add the chopped onion. Sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent. Then, add the grated carrot and diced bell pepper. Continue to sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they become tender.

3. Adding the mushrooms: Now is the time to add the sliced mushrooms. Cover the pot with a lid and let them steam well for 10 minutes. This step is essential as the mushrooms will release their natural juices, giving an intense flavor to the soup.

4. Adding the vegetables and spices: After the mushrooms have softened, add the parsnip, minced garlic, curry, and sweet paprika. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly. Now it’s time to add 1 liter of water. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes.

5. Finishing the soup: After the vegetables have boiled, add the warm borscht, stirring gently. This will add a pleasant acidity to the soup. Finally, add half of the chopped parsley. Let it simmer for a few minutes for the flavors to combine.

6. Serving: Turn off the heat and let the soup cool slightly. It can be served hot or cold, according to your preferences. If you are not observing a fast, add a spoonful of sour cream on top for extra creaminess and a delightful taste. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for added freshness and an attractive appearance.

Useful Tips:

- Mushrooms: You can use fresh mushrooms of various types (champignon, porcini, shiitake), each bringing a unique flavor. If you choose canned mushrooms, make sure to rinse them well before use.
- Borscht: If you prefer a more sour soup, you can add more borscht. If you do not wish to use borscht, lemon juice can be an excellent alternative.
- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or potatoes, to diversify the recipe. Also, for a more sophisticated look, you can add some toasted croutons or roasted pumpkin seeds when serving.

Nutritional Benefits:

Mushroom soup is an excellent option for a healthy meal, being rich in vitamins (especially B and D), minerals, and antioxidants. It is low in calories, with about 150 calories per serving, making it ideal for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can mushroom soup be frozen? Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended not to add sour cream before freezing to preserve the texture.
- How long can mushroom soup be kept in the fridge? Mushroom soup can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days, but its flavor will intensify even more if you let it sit for a day.

Pairing Recipes:

Mushroom soup pairs perfectly with a vegetable pie or a fresh cabbage salad. Additionally, a slice of freshly baked homemade bread will perfectly complement the meal.

Let yourself be carried away on the culinary adventure of this delicious mushroom soup and enjoy every spoonful! Whether served hot or cold, it is an excellent choice for any time of the day. Perhaps this recipe will become a tradition in your own family, just as it has been in mine. Bon appétit!