Craving a warm and comforting bowl of vegan cream of mushroom soup but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? This recipe is your new best friend! We’re going to elevate humble canned soup into a deliciously creamy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch.
Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup Ingredients
The Secret to Upgrading Canned Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup
Let’s be honest, sometimes we all need a shortcut in the kitchen. Canned soups are a pantry staple for a reason – they’re affordable, convenient, and offer a blank canvas for culinary creativity. This recipe takes advantage of those benefits while adding fresh ingredients and a few chef-approved techniques to make a vegan cream of mushroom soup that tastes like it was simmering for hours.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) condensed vegan cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (14 ounces) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh mushrooms (optional, for extra mushroom flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup from a Can:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Boost the Mushroom Flavor: (Optional step) If you’re using fresh mushrooms, add them to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, until softened and lightly browned.
- Build the Soup Base: Pour in the condensed vegan cream of mushroom soup, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Whisk everything together until smooth.
- Season and Simmer: Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Adjust the Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a little more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy with your favorite crusty bread or crackers.
Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup Cooking on Stovetop
“Using full-fat coconut milk adds a wonderful richness and creaminess to vegan soups that you won’t get from other plant-based milk alternatives.” – Chef Anya Green
Tips for the Best Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup:
- Taste as you go: Adjust the seasoning to your preference. You can add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Vegan cream of mushroom soup is delicious with a variety of toppings. Try toasted croutons, a drizzle of vegan sour cream, fresh chives, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
- Make it a Meal: Serve your soup with a side salad, vegan pound cake recipe, or a hearty sandwich for a satisfying and complete meal.
A Bowl of Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup
FAQs About Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup:
Can I use a different type of plant-based milk?
Absolutely! While full-fat coconut milk provides the creamiest texture, you can experiment with other options like almond milk, cashew milk, or soy milk. Keep in mind that the flavor and consistency of the soup may vary slightly.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup reheats beautifully. Make it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze vegan cream of mushroom soup?
It’s best to enjoy this soup fresh. The creamy texture can sometimes separate when frozen and thawed.
What can I serve with vegan cream of mushroom soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread for dipping, a side salad, a grilled vegan cheese sandwich, or even a simple bowl of steamed vegetables.
How can I add more protein to this soup?
To make it a more protein-rich meal, stir in a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or lentils during the last few minutes of cooking. You could also serve the soup with a side of quinoa or brown rice.
This vegan cream of mushroom soup recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious and comforting food doesn’t have to be complicated. So embrace the convenience of canned soup and treat yourself to a bowl of creamy goodness!
