Hungarian Mushroom Soup

If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, flavorful soup that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any season, look no further than this Hungarian Mushroom Soup. Rich with the earthy taste of mushrooms and the warming spices of Hungarian paprika and dill, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hungarian Mushroom Soup is perfect for anyone who appreciates the deep, umami flavors of mushrooms combined with the comforting warmth of a well-spiced broth. This recipe is great for:

• Mushroom Lovers: With a pound of fresh button mushrooms, this soup is a dream for those who can’t get enough of this versatile fungus.
• Vegetarians: Using vegetable broth, this recipe is completely vegetarian-friendly.
• Easy Weeknight Dinners: Quick to prepare and cook, making it ideal for a weeknight meal.
• Comfort Food Seekers: The creamy texture and rich flavor make this soup the ultimate comfort food.

Ingredients and Equipment

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups diced onions
• 1 pound fresh button mushrooms, sliced (reserve and sauté 1 cup for garnish)
• 2 teaspoons dried dill weed
• 1 tablespoon Hungarian sweet paprika
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Pinch of cayenne pepper
• Garnish: sautéed sliced mushrooms, fresh chopped parsley, dollop of sour cream
• Optional: Popovers or sliced Dutch oven bread, for serving

Equipment:

• 5-quart Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Whisk
• Small bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Sauté the Onions and Mushrooms

Melt the butter over medium heat in your Dutch oven. Add the diced onions and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until they are softened and translucent. Next, add the mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until they release their juices and begin to brown.

2. Add Seasonings and Simmer

Stir in the dried dill, Hungarian sweet paprika, and soy sauce. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes.

3. Thicken the Soup

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and whole milk until completely blended. Stir this mixture into the soup, ensuring it’s well incorporated. Replace the cover and simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Final Touches

Stir in the sour cream, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional 3 minutes over low heat until the soup is warmed through but not boiling.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the reserved sautéed mushrooms, a dollop of sour cream, and additional chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread like popovers or slices of Dutch oven bread for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

• Mushroom Varieties: While button mushrooms are classic, feel free to experiment with other types like cremini, portobello, or shiitake for added depth of flavor.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the whole milk with almond milk and use a dairy-free sour cream to make this recipe suitable for those avoiding dairy.
• Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, increase the cornstarch to 3 tablespoons.
• Spicy Kick: Add an extra pinch of cayenne or a chopped fresh chili if you enjoy a bit of heat.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid bringing it to a boil to prevent the dairy from curdling.

Food and Drink Pairings

Hungarian Mushroom Soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages:

• Bread: Serve with popovers, Dutch oven bread, or a simple baguette.
• Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can complement the richness of the soup.
• Wine: A glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red wine such as Pinot Noir makes a perfect pairing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Hungarian Mushroom Soup?

While you can freeze this soup, the texture may change slightly due to the dairy content. If you plan to freeze, consider leaving out the milk and sour cream, then adding them when reheating.

Is Hungarian Mushroom Soup gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What is the best way to clean mushrooms?

Gently wipe mushrooms with a damp paper towel or use a mushroom brush to remove any dirt. Avoid soaking them in water as they can become waterlogged.

If you loved this Hungarian Mushroom Soup recipe, you’ll definitely want to try our unique twist on a dessert classic with our Homemade Apple Pie Egg Rolls!

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