Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Soup – A Cozy Comfort Food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nothing beats a warm, creamy bowl of soup on a chilly evening, and this creamy mushroom and spinach soup delivers comfort in every spoonful. Packed with earthy mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and a rich, velvety broth, this dish is both nourishing and indulgent. It’s easy to prepare, can be made in one pot, and is perfect as a starter or a satisfying meal on its own. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for different dietary needs!

Ingredients

• Mushrooms (such as cremini, button, or shiitake)
• Fresh spinach
• Onion
• Garlic
• Butter or olive oil
• Vegetable or chicken broth
• Heavy cream or milk (or a dairy-free alternative)
• Flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)
• Nutmeg
• Salt and pepper
• Lemon juice (for brightness)

Directions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Cook the Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they release their juices and begin to brown. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3. Thicken the Base: Sprinkle flour or cornstarch over the mushrooms, stirring well to coat. This will help thicken the soup. Cook for a minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Simmer the Soup: Slowly pour in the broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes until the flavors meld together.
5. Blend for Creaminess (Optional): If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup while keeping some mushroom chunks intact.
6. Add the Spinach and Cream: Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Reduce the heat and slowly pour in the cream or milk, mixing well. Add a dash of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Finish and Serve: Stir in Parmesan cheese if using and squeeze in a bit of fresh lemon juice for balance. Serve hot with crusty bread or a light salad on the side.

Variations

• Make it Vegan: Swap butter for olive oil, use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of dairy, and choose a vegetable broth.
• Add Protein: Stir in shredded chicken or cooked white beans for a more filling meal.
• Boost the Flavor: Add a splash of white wine while cooking the mushrooms for extra depth.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a little heat.
• Try Different Greens: Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a heartier texture.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This soup can be frozen without the cream. If planning to freeze, add the cream when reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the consistency.

FAQs

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening, or skip it entirely for a thinner consistency.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes! Thaw and drain excess moisture before adding it to the soup.

What’s the best type of mushroom for this soup?

A mix of cremini, button, and shiitake mushrooms provides the best depth of flavor.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Use room-temperature cream and add it slowly over low heat while stirring constantly.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad pair beautifully with this dish.

Can I use a non-dairy milk?

Yes, coconut milk, cashew cream, or almond milk work well as substitutes.

Is this soup low-carb?

Without the flour or cornstarch, it’s relatively low in carbs. You can thicken it with blended mushrooms instead.

How can I make the soup extra thick?

Use less broth, add an extra spoonful of flour, or blend a portion of the soup for a thicker texture.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Carrots, celery, or leeks would complement the flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

This creamy mushroom and spinach soup is the ultimate cozy comfort food, combining earthy flavors, velvety texture, and nourishing ingredients. Whether you enjoy it as a light meal or a hearty appetizer, it’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. Try it today and warm up with a bowl of homemade goodness!

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