Keto Cream Mushroom Soup

In a world where ketogenic diets are rapidly gaining popularity, finding tasty and compliant recipes can be a delightful challenge. One such culinary gem is keto cream of mushroom soup.

This flavorful, creamy soup is not only keto-friendly but also incredibly easy to make at home. In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of creating this delicious dish, as demonstrated by a seasoned home chef.

Get ready to elevate your culinary skills and enjoy a bowl of ketogenic comfort.

Ingredients and Initial Preparations

To start, let’s gather the ingredients. Below is the list of elements you’ll need, all of which can be tailored to your specific taste preferences:

• Butter: 2 tablespoons
• Onion: Finely chopped
• Thyme: Fresh is recommended, but dried thyme works too
• Mushrooms: Sliced
• Garlic Powder
• Onion Powder
• Pepper
• Chicken Broth
• Heavy Cream
• Cream Cheese: About 2 ounces

The video’s chef emphasizes that specific measurements for these ingredients can be found on her website. For a truly great cream of mushroom soup, freshness is key. For instance, while dried thyme is acceptable, fresh thyme can elevate the dish’s flavor profile.

Cooking Instructions

Sautéing Aromatics

We begin the cooking process by heating a skillet and adding 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is melted and begins to sizzle, it’s time to add the chopped onions. This aromatic base is crucial for the depth of flavor in the soup. Cook the onions until they become translucent, which should take a few minutes on medium heat.

Next, add the thyme. If you’re using fresh thyme, one sprig should suffice. For dried thyme, a sprinkle or two will do. Continue to cook until the onions are fully translucent and the thyme has released its aromatic goodness.

Adding Mushrooms

After the onions and thyme are ready, it’s time to introduce the star of the show: the mushrooms. Add your sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté them until they become tender and most of their moisture has evaporated. This process will concentrate the mushroom flavor, enriching the overall taste of the soup.

Seasoning and Broth Addition

Once your mushrooms are tender, season them with garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper. The chef advises using about a teaspoon of each seasoning, but feel free to adjust according to your taste. Stir these seasonings in well to ensure they are evenly distributed.

Following the seasoning, carefully pour in the chicken broth. The amount isn’t specified in the video, but generally, about 2-3 cups should suffice for a rich consistency. Stir the mixture to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Introducing the Cream

The next step involves adding the heavy cream. This will give the soup its luscious, creamy texture. After pouring in the heavy cream, stir the mixture well to incorporate it fully. The cream will start to meld with the broth and mushrooms, creating a beautifully rich base.

Thickening with Cream Cheese

To achieve that desired thickness and smooth texture, we introduce cream cheese into the mix. About 2 ounces should do the trick. The cream cheese will melt into the soup as it simmers, adding both creaminess and a slight tang, enhancing the overall flavor.

Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer. Cover it partially and allow it to cook gently for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking process helps meld the flavors together while thickening the soup.

Blending for Consistency

Using an Immersion Blender

After simmering, it’s time to blend the soup. Using an immersion blender directly in the skillet is an excellent way to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can blend only a portion, leaving some of the mushrooms and onions intact for added texture.

Alternative Blending Methods

If you don’t have an immersion blender, a regular countertop blender will work just as well. Just be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid any hot splashes. Blend until you reach your desired consistency.

Final Adjustments

Once blended, it’s crucial to taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A little extra salt, pepper, or even a splash more cream can make a significant difference. Stir well after any adjustments.

Serving Suggestions

Your keto cream of mushroom soup is now ready to serve. Ladle it into bowls and enjoy it on its own, or use it as a rich base for other keto recipes. This soup can also be stored in the refrigerator for a few days or frozen for longer durability, making it a convenient make-ahead meal.

Pairing Ideas

Consider pairing this soup with a fresh keto-friendly salad or a side of low-carb bread for a complete meal. It also makes an excellent starter for a more elaborate ketogenic dinner.

Conclusion

Making keto cream of mushroom soup at home is not only economical but also allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring they align with your dietary needs. This recipe is simple, quick, and versatile, making it a fantastic addition to your keto recipe collection.

From sautéing the onions to blending the final product, each step is crucial in creating a soup that is both delicious and keto-compliant. Give this recipe a try, and you may find yourself making it again and again.