Creamy Mushroom and Pearl Couscous Soup

Ingredients:

2 tbsp butter

1 large shallot minced

1 tbsp garlic minced

1 lb baby bella mushroom sliced

5 cups beef broth

1/4 cup white wine

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp dried dill

1/2 tsp paprika

1/4 tsp dried thyme

1 cup pearl couscous

1/2 cup half and half

Sour cream

Crusty Bread for serving

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook Vegetables:

Add butter to a large pot over medium heat.

Allow to melt, but not brown.

Add sliced baby bella mushroom, minced shallot, & minced garlic to pot.

Cook and stir for 2 minutes until aromatic.

Step 2: Add Seasoning, Broth, and Couscous:

Sprinkle dried dill, dried thyme, and paprika into pot and stir.

Whisk in Worcestershire sauce, white wine, and beef broth.

Taste and season with salt & pepper.

Bring pot to a boil, pour in couscous, and cover pot with a lid.

Turn heat down to medium and simmer for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Finish & Plate:

Check couscous for doneness.

It should be soft and chewy.

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Add more time if needed.

Once couscous is done, remove pot from heat and stir in half & half.

Serve with sour cream & crusty bread.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is pearl couscous, and can I substitute it with regular couscous?

Pearl couscous, also known as Israeli couscous, is larger and chewier than regular couscous.

While you can substitute regular couscous for pearl couscous, the texture and cooking time may vary.

Can I use a different type of mushroom in this soup?

Yes, you can use different types of mushrooms such as button mushrooms, cremini mushrooms, or shiitake mushrooms based on your preference or availability.

Is it necessary to use beef broth, or can I use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option?

While beef broth adds richness to the soup, you can substitute it with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of the soup without compromising flavor.

What does Worcestershire sauce add to the soup?

Worcestershire sauce adds depth of flavor and a hint of umami to the soup, enhancing the savory taste of the mushrooms and broth.

Can I omit the white wine from the recipe?

If you prefer not to use white wine, you can omit it from the recipe without significantly affecting the overall flavor of the soup.

How can I adjust the consistency of the soup if it’s too thick or too thin?

If the soup is too thick, you can add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Conversely, if it’s too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken slightly.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

Reheat it gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

What type of bread pairs well with this soup?

Crusty bread such as baguette or sourdough is an excellent choice to serve alongside this soup.

The crusty texture complements the creamy soup beautifully.

Is it necessary to use half-and-half, or can I use milk or cream instead?

Half-and-half adds richness to the soup without being too heavy.

You can substitute it with whole milk for a lighter option or heavy cream for a richer texture.

Can I garnish the soup with other ingredients besides sour cream?

Yes, you can garnish the soup with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and visual appeal.