Mushroom soup with ham and sour cream

Dew Mushroom Soup with Ham and Cream - a Comforting Recipe for Rainy Days

When the rain drips against the window and the cold weather urges us to take refuge in our kitchens, a warm and flavorful soup is just what we need. Today, I will share with you a delicious recipe for dew mushroom soup with ham and cream. This soup will not only warm your soul but will also bring a touch of nostalgia with every spoonful, carrying a family story behind it.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g fresh dew mushrooms
- 250 g semi-smoked ham
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsley root
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 tablespoons rice
- 4 tablespoons oil
- 1 liter clear chicken broth
- 1 cup cream
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish

Of course, fresh ingredients are key for a soup rich in flavors. Dew mushrooms are perhaps the most delicate ingredient in the recipe, offering a subtle taste and pleasant texture. Buy them fresh, without spots or impurities, and make sure to wash them carefully, as they are very fragile.

Step by step for a perfect soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning and washing the vegetables. It is important to clean the mushrooms of impurities, and to wash them correctly, use a sieve that you dip a few times in a bowl of water. This way, the mushrooms will not crumble during washing and will remain whole.

2. Cutting the ingredients: Cut the ham into small cubes. The carrots and parsley root should be halved lengthwise and then sliced into rounds. Chop the onion finely, and slice the bell pepper into thin strips (julienne).

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the oil and lightly sauté the onion, carrot, parsley root, and bell pepper. Stir them for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and release their aromas.

4. Adding the rice and ham: Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the rice and the diced ham. Mix them well and sauté for another 5 minutes. This step will help them integrate better into the soup.

5. Boiling the soup: Pour the chicken broth into the pot and add the bay leaf. Salt to taste and let it boil for 15 minutes over medium heat. Then, reduce the boiling intensity and add the dew mushrooms. Let them boil together for another 10 minutes.

6. Finalizing the soup: In a bowl, mix the cream with the turmeric powder and white pepper. Add this mixture to the hot soup and stir well. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary. If you prefer a more sour taste, add a little lemon juice.

7. Serving: Once the soup is ready, pour it into bowls and sprinkle fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of color and freshness.

Helpful tip: You can pair this soup with a slice of toasted bread or flavored croutons, which will add a pleasant contrast of textures. Also, a glass of dry white wine can perfectly accompany this dish.

Nutritional benefits: This soup is rich in protein due to the ham and rice, while the dew mushrooms provide fiber and essential vitamins. The cream adds a touch of creaminess and flavor, making this recipe a true culinary indulgence.

Possible variations: If you want to experiment, you can replace the ham with chicken breast or a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian version. Also, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or dill for an extra flavor boost.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned mushrooms? Although fresh mushrooms are preferred for their taste and texture, you can also use canned mushrooms in case of need. Make sure to drain them well before use.

2. How can I store the soup for the next day? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it before serving.

3. What other ingredients can I add? You can experiment with various vegetables such as celery, zucchini, or even peas, which will add extra color and nutrients.

This dew mushroom soup with ham and cream is not just a simple recipe, but also a way to savor moments spent with family, thus restoring cherished traditions and memories. With every spoonful, you will feel the warmth of home and the love of your dear ones, all enveloped in an unforgettable aroma. Enjoy every moment and don't hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones!