Clear Mushroom Soup
Clear mushroom soup is a delicate, flavorful broth-based soup that showcases the earthy richness of mushrooms. It is light yet comforting, making it a perfect appetizer or a nourishing starter for any meal.
The clear broth highlights the deep umami flavor of the mushrooms, while the fresh herbs and aromatics elevate the taste. This soup is a great choice for mushroom lovers, and it can be easily adapted to suit a variety of tastes. Whether you use common button mushrooms, shiitake, or even a combination of wild mushrooms, this soup is sure to delight your senses.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
2 cups fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced (button mushrooms, cremini, shiitake, or a mix)
1 medium onion, halved
2 garlic cloves, smashed
1 small carrot, peeled and sliced
1 celery stalk, chopped
4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version)
1 tbsp soy sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
1 tsp sesame oil (optional, for a slight nutty aroma)
1-2 bay leaves
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
A squeeze of lemon juice (optional)
How to Make Clear Mushroom Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics
Start by preparing the mushrooms, slicing them thinly. If using dried mushrooms, rehydrate them in warm water for 20 minutes, then slice them.
Halve the onion and smash the garlic cloves with the back of a knife. Slice the carrot and chop the celery into small pieces. These vegetables will infuse the broth with flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, add a small amount of oil (or sesame oil for added flavor) over medium heat.
Add the sliced mushrooms, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the mushrooms begin to release their moisture.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Seasonings
Pour the vegetable broth (or chicken broth) into the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Add the soy sauce, bay leaves, dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bring the soup to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low to simmer. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Strain the Soup (Optional)
If you prefer a completely clear broth, strain the soup to remove the vegetables and mushrooms, then return the broth to the pot. You can use a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth for a cleaner result.
If you like a bit of texture, you can leave the vegetables and mushrooms in the soup.
Step 5: Final Adjustments and Serving
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or soy sauce if necessary.
Remove the bay leaves from the pot.
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for color and freshness. Optionally, squeeze a little lemon juice over the soup for a touch of brightness.
Chef’s Notes
Mushroom Variations: While this recipe uses common mushrooms, you can mix in exotic mushrooms such as shiitake, oyster, or enoki for different textures and flavors.
Broth Options: The soup can be made with vegetable broth for a vegan option or chicken broth for a richer, more savory taste. You can even make your own homemade mushroom broth for a more intense flavor.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds depth to the broth, but it’s optional. If you prefer a lighter flavor, omit it or use tamari for a gluten-free option.
Serving Suggestions: This soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it as a light appetizer before a main course.
Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: 70
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fat: 1g
Fiber: 3g
Vitamin A: 15% of the Daily Value
Vitamin C: 6% of the Daily Value
Potassium: 10% of the Daily Value
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.)
Clear mushroom soup is a delicious, light, and aromatic dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms and the subtle aroma of the herbs create a warm, comforting broth that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. Whether you prefer it with a clean, clear broth or with chunks of vegetables, this soup is a versatile and wholesome choice for anyone who loves the umami taste of mushrooms. Enjoy it as an appetizer, a side, or a cozy meal on its own!