Creamy Mushroom Soup

### Instructions

#### Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms
Start by cleaning and slicing the mushrooms. If you’re using button mushrooms, you can simply wipe them with a damp cloth. For larger varieties like cremini or shiitake, trim the stems and slice them into thin pieces to ensure they cook evenly.

#### Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

#### Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. As the mushrooms release their moisture, they will shrink down. Continue cooking until most of the liquid has evaporated and the mushrooms are golden brown and tender.

#### Step 4: Add the Broth and Herbs
Once the mushrooms are cooked, add the broth and dried thyme (or fresh thyme sprigs). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If you’d like a slightly thicker soup, you can stir in 1 tablespoon of flour during this step, cooking for 1-2 minutes before adding the broth.

#### Step 5: Blend the Soup
For a smooth, creamy texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.

#### Step 6: Add Cream and Season
Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and heat the soup over low to medium heat until it’s hot but not boiling. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

#### Step 7: Serve
Ladle the creamy mushroom soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness.

### Tips for Perfect Creamy Mushroom Soup:

– **Mushroom Variety:** The type of mushrooms you use can affect the flavor and texture of the soup. Button mushrooms offer a mild taste, while cremini and shiitake mushrooms add a deeper, earthier flavor. A mix of different varieties is a great way to add complexity.

– **For Extra Richness:** If you prefer a richer soup, try adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese along with the heavy cream for added tang and creaminess.

– **Vegan Option:** For a plant-based version, swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream, and use vegetable broth. Vegan butter or olive oil can replace the butter for sautéing.

– **Storage:** This soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool the soup completely before storing it in airtight containers.

### Pairing Suggestions:
Creamy mushroom soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a light salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness. You can also top it with croutons or a drizzle of truffle oil for an extra touch of luxury.

### Conclusion:
This creamy mushroom soup recipe is a perfect balance of savory, rich flavors and velvety smoothness. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and ideal for a warm, comforting meal. Whether you enjoy it as a starter or as the main dish, this soup is guaranteed to impress. So, next time you’re craving something cozy, grab some fresh mushrooms and treat yourself to a bowl of creamy mushroom soup!