The Sweet Tomatoes cream of mushroom soup recipe brings a cozy, rich flavor that combines earthy mushrooms with creamy broth, making it a favorite comfort food. This recipe mimics the popular Sweet Tomatoes soup, using fresh ingredients and spices to achieve the same savory, creamy taste. Ideal for a chilly day or when you crave something warm and hearty, this recipe brings the best of Sweet Tomatoes’ signature soup into your kitchen.
Overview of Sweet Tomatoes Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
In this Sweet Tomatoes cream of mushroom soup recipe, the mushrooms are sautéed until golden, releasing their earthy aroma, then blended into a velvety broth with a touch of cream. The result is a soup that’s thick, rich, and layered with flavor. The recipe calls for basic ingredients, but the magic lies in the slow simmering that brings out the essence of the mushrooms.
Ingredients for Sweet Tomatoes Cream of Mushroom Soup
For the Soup Base:
- 1 lb fresh mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix), sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Sauté the Mushrooms
- In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 8-10 minutes until they’re soft and browned, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add the onion and garlic to the mushrooms, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Step 2: Create the Roux for Thickening
- Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes. This step helps thicken the soup while giving it a creamy texture.
- Gradually add the broth, stirring to combine and smooth out any lumps of flour.
Step 3: Simmer and Blend
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamy texture with small mushroom pieces, or blend until completely smooth, depending on your preference.
Step 4: Add Cream and Seasonings
- Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for added flavor and color.
- Serve warm with crusty bread, or sprinkle with grated parmesan for an extra savory touch.
Tips for the Best Sweet Tomatoes Cream of Mushroom Soup
- Mushroom Variety: For a deeper flavor, try using a blend of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or portobello in addition to button mushrooms.
- Consistency: Adjust the thickness by adding more broth if it becomes too thick or cooking longer to reduce it.
- Blending Options: For a chunkier soup, blend only half of the mixture. For a smooth soup, blend entirely.
- Dairy Alternatives: Substitute with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version, although this will alter the flavor slightly.
Conclusion: A Comforting Bowl of Rich, Creamy Flavor
This Sweet Tomatoes cream of mushroom soup recipe captures the savory richness and smooth texture of a restaurant classic, perfect for a comforting homemade meal. With its creamy consistency, aromatic mushrooms, and simple ingredients, this soup is both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. Make it a complete meal with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors right in your own kitchen.
