Creamy Mushroom Soup

#### **Instructions:**

1. **Sauté the Vegetables:**
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

2. **Add the Mushrooms:**
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook, stirring frequently, until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 8-10 minutes. The mushrooms should shrink and develop a rich, deep color and flavor.

3. **Deglaze the Pan:**
If using white wine, pour it into the pot and let it simmer for a couple of minutes, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. This adds extra depth of flavor.

4. **Add Broth and Simmer:**
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the mushrooms to infuse the broth with flavor.

5. **Blend the Soup (Optional):**
If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s as smooth as you like. Alternatively, let the soup cool slightly, transfer it to a blender, and blend until smooth, then return to the pot.

6. **Thicken the Soup:**
If the soup is too thin, make a simple slurry by mixing the flour with a small amount of cold water until it’s smooth. Stir the slurry into the soup and let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.

7. **Add Cream and Simmer:**
Slowly pour the cream into the soup, stirring constantly. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, but do not let it boil rapidly, as that can cause the cream to separate.

8. **Taste and Adjust Seasoning:**
Taste the soup and add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. Remove from heat and let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving.

9. **Garnish and Serve:**
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm alongside crusty bread or a side salad for a satisfying and comforting meal.

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### **Tips for the Best Creamy Mushroom Soup:**

– **Choose the Right Mushrooms:**
The type of mushrooms you use will significantly impact the flavor. Cremini, white button, and a mix of both provide a balanced, earthy flavor. If you can find wild mushrooms, like porcini or shiitake, they add a more robust taste.

– **Add a Splash of White Wine:**
A touch of white wine can enhance the depth of flavor in the soup. It also helps cut through the richness of the cream and brightens the soup’s overall taste.

– **Adjust the Consistency:**
If you prefer a thinner soup, add more broth. For a thicker soup, add a touch more flour or let the soup simmer longer to reduce the liquid.

– **Experiment with Herbs and Spices:**
While thyme works well, consider adding other herbs such as rosemary or sage for a different twist. A pinch of nutmeg or a few slices of garlic can also elevate the flavor.

– **Store and Reheat:**
Creamy mushroom soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a bit of broth or cream if needed to reach the right consistency.

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### **Conclusion:**
Creamy mushroom soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a flavorful blend of earthy mushrooms, creamy richness, and a cozy warmth that’s hard to resist. Whether you enjoy it on a cold winter evening or serve it for a dinner party, this soup is sure to impress. It’s a dish that feels special but is also simple enough to make any night of the week. Give it a try, and you’ll be delighted by the depth and richness it brings to your table!