Vegan cream of mushroom soup? Yes, you read that right! This recipe proves that you don’t need cream to achieve a luxuriously creamy and flavorful soup. This vegan version is packed with earthy mushrooms, aromatic herbs, and a surprising secret ingredient for creaminess. Get ready to cozy up with a bowl of pure comfort food that just happens to be plant-based.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup
This soup isn’t just delicious; it’s also:
- Easy to make: You can have this soup simmering on your stovetop in under 30 minutes.
- Budget-friendly: This recipe utilizes simple, affordable ingredients.
- Packed with flavor: Earthy mushrooms, aromatic vegetables, and fresh herbs create a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a starter, a light lunch, or a comforting dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious vegan cream of mushroom soup:
- Olive oil
- Yellow onion, chopped
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh mushrooms, sliced (cremini, shiitake, or a mix)
- Dried thyme
- Vegetable broth
- Cashews (soaked in hot water for 30 minutes, then drained) – This is our secret to creaminess!
- Nutritional yeast
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredients for Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup
How to Make Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup
Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this comforting soup:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 8-10 minutes.
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Add Flavor: Stir in the dried thyme and season generously with salt and pepper.
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Simmer and Blend: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Creamy Time: Carefully transfer the soup to a high-speed blender. Add the drained cashews and nutritional yeast. Blend on high speed until the soup is completely smooth and creamy.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have a high-speed blender, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Just be sure to blend in short bursts to avoid splattering.
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Adjust and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Serve the soup warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
Blending Vegan Mushroom Soup for Creamy Texture
Tips for the Best Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup
Here are some additional tips to elevate your soup:
- Mushroom Variety: Experiment with different mushroom types! Shiitake mushrooms add a rich, umami flavor, while oyster mushrooms offer a delicate sweetness.
- Cashew Substitute: If you don’t have cashews, you can substitute them with an equal amount of soaked sunflower seeds or full-fat coconut milk for a creamy texture.
- Flavor Boost: A splash of soy sauce or tamari can add a delicious savory depth to the soup.
- Garnish Inspiration: Get creative with garnishes! Try adding a swirl of vegan sour cream, toasted bread crumbs, or chopped chives for extra flavor and texture.
FAQs About Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to develop. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread for dipping, a simple side salad, or a hearty vegan sandwich like vegan dinner ideas for two.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just be sure to use gluten-free vegetable broth and check that your nutritional yeast is certified gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with adding other vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or potatoes for added flavor and texture.
Two Bowls of Creamy Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup
Enjoy a Bowl of Comfort
“This vegan cream of mushroom soup is a testament to the power of plant-based cooking,” says renowned vegan chef, Emily Carter. ” It’s incredibly satisfying and bursting with flavor.” So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of creamy, dreamy, vegan goodness.
