Condensed Cream Of Mushroom Soup Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself in need of a quick, comforting meal, or a flavorful base for your casseroles, pastas, and other dishes, Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup is your unsung hero. It’s a pantry staple that can be used in countless recipes, from savory casseroles to rich sauces. This creamy, velvety soup packs in so much flavor, and believe it or not, it’s actually easier to make from scratch than you might think! Plus, by making your own, you get to control the ingredients and the flavor profile, making it an incredibly satisfying option for those who love home-cooked meals.

Now, let’s dive deep into creating this culinary gem from the comfort of your kitchen, starting with what you need and how to make it!

Condensed Cream Of Mushroom Soup Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about the texture and taste of a good bowl of cream of mushroom soup. When you make it from scratch, you’re not just creating a meal, you’re crafting an experience. This homemade version offers the rich, earthy flavor of mushrooms, balanced by the smooth, creamy texture that makes it perfect for so many recipes. The beauty is in its simplicity. So, let’s get started with a recipe that’s easy to follow but big on flavor.

Ingredients Needed

To make this creamy, flavorful soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• Fresh Mushrooms (2 cups, finely chopped) – White button mushrooms are a classic choice, though you can mix them with cremini or portobello for more depth.
• Butter (2 tbsp) – The base fat that will give the soup its silky texture.
• All-purpose Flour (2 tbsp) – This is the thickening agent that helps create the condensed texture of the soup.
• Milk (1 ½ cups) – Whole milk will give you the richest flavor, but you can opt for lower-fat milk if you prefer.
• Chicken Broth (1 cup) – You can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Heavy Cream (½ cup) – This adds the ultimate creaminess that makes this soup feel indulgent.
• Onion (½ small, finely chopped) – Adds a subtle savory undertone.
• Garlic (1 clove, minced) – To deepen the flavor profile.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste) – A little seasoning goes a long way in bringing everything together.

Cooking Instructions

Now that we have all the ingredients, let’s get cooking! This process is straightforward and can be completed in less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect quick fix for busy days.

1. Sauté The Mushrooms And Aromatics

   • In a medium-sized saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onions and cook until they are softened and translucent (about 3 minutes).
   • Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
   • Add the chopped mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.

2. Make The Roux

   • Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the cooked mushrooms, stirring to combine. This creates a roux, which will thicken the soup.
   • Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning the flour.

3. Add Liquids

   • Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
   • Add the milk, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Keep stirring occasionally.

4. Add Cream And Simmer

   • Once the soup has thickened slightly (after about 5-7 minutes), add the heavy cream.
   • Stir to combine, and allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.

5. Season And Serve

   • Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper. Depending on your preference, you can also add a pinch of nutmeg or thyme for extra flavor.
   • Once the soup is thickened and creamy, it’s ready to serve or use in your favorite recipes!

Ingredient Insights

The beauty of homemade cream of mushroom soup lies in the freshness and quality of ingredients. Here’s a deeper look at the role each one plays:

• Mushrooms: This is the star ingredient. Fresh mushrooms give the soup an earthy flavor that canned soups simply cannot replicate. Using a mix of white button mushrooms and a few portobellos or creminis can enhance the depth of flavor. Mushrooms are also a great source of vitamins B and D, making this soup a nourishing option.
• Butter and Flour: These two ingredients come together to form a roux, which is the foundation for many creamy soups and sauces. The butter adds richness, while the flour thickens the mixture without altering the flavor too much.
• Milk and Heavy Cream: These are what give the soup its signature smooth and velvety texture. Milk provides a light creaminess, while heavy cream elevates the richness and indulgence of the dish.
• Broth: Chicken broth provides a savory, well-rounded base for the soup. If you’re going vegetarian, vegetable broth is an excellent substitute that still delivers plenty of flavor.
• Seasonings: Salt and pepper might seem simple, but they’re key in balancing the soup’s flavors. A dash of garlic or thyme can take the flavor up a notch.

Expert Tips

When it comes to making the best Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup, a few extra tips can make a big difference:

• For a Smoother Texture: After blending the soup, use an immersion blender to purée it for a silky-smooth finish, or blend part of the soup in a regular blender for a chunkier texture.
• Add Fresh Herbs: A bit of thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor profile. Adding these early in the cooking process will allow their oils to infuse the broth, creating a richer taste.
• For a Gluten-Free Version: Replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to use less since these thickeners are more potent.
• Make It Ahead: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for 3-4 days and freezes well too. If you plan on freezing it, leave out the cream until you’re ready to reheat and serve, as dairy doesn’t always freeze well.

Recipe Variations

One of the joys of this soup is how versatile it can be. You can tweak it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You could also replace the cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
• Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup: To make this soup vegan-friendly, swap out the butter for olive oil and the cream for coconut cream or cashew cream.
• Extra Protein: For a more filling soup, consider adding some protein! Shredded chicken, ground turkey, or even sautéed tofu can be stirred in to create a heartier version.
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in some grated Parmesan or cheddar for a cheesy version of this soup that can be poured over pasta or served as a rich dip.

Final Words

Condensed cream of mushroom soup is a culinary classic that has earned its place in many of our kitchens. Whether it’s a standalone soup, a creamy casserole base, or a sauce for your favorite dishes, the homemade version takes it to the next level. By making this recipe yourself, you not only enhance the flavor but also gain full control over what goes into it. It’s easy to make, customizable, and, most importantly, incredibly delicious!