Cream of Wild Mushroom Soup with a touch of Sherry and Cracked Pepper
Instructions:
Sauté Mushrooms of choice with fresh garlic and half of 1 onion with 1/2 stick of butter
Steep dried wild mushrooms
Add 1 quart of Half and half
Add rehydrated wild mushrooms amount… as you desire ….blend a bit with blender stick
Add the rest of the wild mushrooms drained
Add. 1/4 to 1/2 cup of mushroom broth from steeping prices reserved
Add Sherry to taste
Add 1 T of better than bullion chicken
Add butter to your desired smoothness
Season to taste with garlic powder, chives, parsley, paprika and lots of cracked black pepper
Enjoy
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 300 | Fat: 20 grams | Carbohydrates: 15 grams | Protein: 8 grams | Fiber: 2 grams
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I choose the right mushrooms for this soup?
You can use a variety of mushrooms such as cremini, shiitake, or porcini to add depth of flavor.
Choose fresh mushrooms with firm caps and avoid any that appear slimy or discolored.
Can I substitute half and half with another type of cream?
Yes, you can substitute half and half with heavy cream for a richer soup or with milk for a lighter version.
Adjust the amount according to your preference.
How long should I steep the dried wild mushrooms?
Steep the dried wild mushrooms in hot water for about 20-30 minutes, or until they are fully rehydrated and tender.
Make sure to reserve the flavorful mushroom broth for added depth of flavor in the soup.
Is it necessary to blend the soup with a stick blender?
Blending the soup is optional and depends on your preference for texture.
Blending a portion of the soup helps to thicken it and create a creamier consistency, but you can leave it chunky if desired.
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this soup by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting the Better Than Bouillon chicken.
For a vegan version, replace the butter with olive oil and use plant-based cream or milk alternatives.
Can I use fresh wild mushrooms instead of dried ones?
Yes, you can use fresh wild mushrooms if they’re available.
Simply skip the step of rehydrating dried mushrooms and adjust the amount of fresh mushrooms according to your taste preference.
What can I use if I don’t have sherry on hand?
If you don’t have sherry, you can substitute it with white wine, Marsala wine, or even a splash of brandy for a slightly different flavor profile.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to Better Than Bouillon chicken?
Yes, you can use vegetable bouillon or vegetable broth instead of Better Than Bouillon chicken to keep the soup vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make this soup ahead of time and reheat it later?
Yes, this soup reheats well. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Can I freeze this soup for later use?
While the soup can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing due to the dairy content.
If freezing, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I omit the butter to make this soup lighter?
Yes, you can omit or reduce the amount of butter if you prefer a lighter version of the soup.
Alternatively, you can use olive oil as a healthier substitute.
How can I adjust the thickness of the soup?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can simmer the soup uncovered for a longer time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
Alternatively, you can add a slurry of cornstarch or flour mixed with water to thicken the soup.
Can I garnish the soup with anything else besides cracked black pepper?
Yes, you can garnish the soup with a drizzle of truffle oil, a dollop of crème fraîche, or a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs such as parsley or chives for added flavor and visual appeal.
What are some suitable side dishes to serve with this soup?
This creamy mushroom soup pairs well with crusty bread, a green salad, or a simple grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting and satisfying meal.