This Vegan Mushroom Soup Recipe is the perfect meal for a cozy night in. It’s packed with earthy flavors, creamy texture, and satisfyingly savory notes. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based cooking, this simple recipe will become a go-to favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Mushroom Soup
This soup is more than just a simple appetizer; it’s a celebration of rich, umami flavors and hearty textures. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Easy to make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple techniques, making it perfect for even beginner cooks.
- Creamy and comforting: The blend of mushrooms and plant-based milk creates an incredibly creamy texture that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
- Packed with flavor: The combination of different mushrooms brings an earthy depth, while herbs and spices add complexity and warmth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound mixed mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, oyster), sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Let’s Make Vegan Mushroom Soup!
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes, until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Sautéing Onions and Garlic for Vegan Mushroom Soup
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Develop the mushroom flavor: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot along with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have softened and released their liquid.
Cooking Mushrooms for Vegan Soup
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Simmer for depth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
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Blend to creamy perfection: Carefully transfer the soup in batches to a high-speed blender and blend until smooth and creamy. You can also use an immersion blender directly in the pot.
Blending Vegan Mushroom Soup for Creamy Texture
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Add creaminess and richness: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the plant-based milk and nutritional yeast. Warm the soup over low heat for a few minutes, but don’t let it boil.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Vegan Mushroom Soup Garnished with Parsley
Tips for the Best Vegan Mushroom Soup
- Mushroom variety: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of mushrooms for a more complex flavor profile. Portobello, shimeji, or even dried porcini mushrooms would add a unique touch.
- Nutritional yeast: This ingredient is key to achieving a cheesy flavor without using any dairy. Make sure to use a good quality nutritional yeast for the best results.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add more vegetable broth or water to adjust the consistency to your liking.
- Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
FAQs About Vegan Mushroom Soup
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your vegetable broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free if you have a severe allergy.
What can I serve with vegan mushroom soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread for dipping, a simple green salad, or a side of roasted vegetables. If you’re looking for easy vegan weeknight dinners, this soup is a great starting point.
Can I freeze vegan mushroom soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stovetop.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Certainly! You can enhance your soup by adding other vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or potatoes. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic before adding the mushrooms.
How can I make this soup richer?
For an even richer flavor, try sautéing the mushrooms with a splash of vegan white wine or sherry before adding the broth. This will add another layer of complexity and depth.
A Final Word from Chef Amelia
“This vegan mushroom soup is a testament to the fact that plant-based cooking can be both comforting and incredibly delicious. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different mushrooms and seasonings to make it your own. Enjoy!” – Chef Amelia Greene
This creamy vegan mushroom soup recipe is a testament to the fact that you don’t need dairy to achieve comforting, flavorful meals. With its simple steps and versatile nature, it’s sure to become a staple in your plant-based recipe repertoire.