Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is for Creamy Gourmet Mushroom Soup.
What kind of mushrooms should I use?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of fresh mushrooms, prepared by slicing some and finely chopping the rest.
How much butter is required for the soup?
You will need 4 tablespoons of butter, divided into two 2-tablespoon portions for different stages of cooking.
What is the first step in preparing the mushrooms?
Begin by slicing enough mushrooms to measure 1 cup and then finely chopping all the remaining mushrooms.
How do I cook the sliced mushrooms?
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over low heat in a 3-quart saucepan and cook the sliced mushrooms for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
What should I do with the sliced mushrooms once they are golden brown?
Remove them from the saucepan using a slotted spoon and set them aside to be added back later.
How do I prepare the base of the soup after browning the sliced mushrooms?
In the same saucepan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the chopped mushrooms and onion, cooking until softened.
What thickener is used in this mushroom soup?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to thicken the soup.
How much salt and pepper are needed?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper.
Why do I need to cook the flour and mushroom mixture for a minute?
Cooking the mixture for about 1 minute helps to eliminate the raw flour taste.
What liquid ingredients are added to the soup base?
You add one 10 3/4 ounce can of condensed chicken broth and 1 3/4 cups of water.
How long should the soup boil?
Once the mixture reaches a boil, let it cook for 1 minute while stirring continuously.
What gives the soup its creamy texture?
Adding 1 cup of half-and-half at the end of the process provides the signature creaminess.
When do I add the golden sliced mushrooms back into the pot?
The reserved sliced mushrooms are stirred back into the soup along with the half-and-half after the boiling stage.
Should I boil the soup after adding the cream?
No, you should only allow the soup to heat through on low heat and do not let it boil after adding the half-and-half.
What is a recommended garnish for this soup?
Freshly snipped parsley is suggested as an optional garnish before serving.
What can I serve with Creamy Gourmet Mushroom Soup?
It is best served with warm, crusty bread or freshly baked bread slathered with butter.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 total ingredients in this recipe.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, one of the tags for this recipe is 'easy recipe'.
What size saucepan should I use?
A 3-quart saucepan is recommended for preparing this soup.
Can I use black pepper instead of white pepper?
While the recipe specifies white pepper for a clean look, you can use black pepper if preferred, though it will add small dark specks to the cream base.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
While it is tagged as vegetarian, the ingredients list includes chicken broth; for a true vegetarian version, you should substitute it with vegetable broth.
How much onion is needed?
The recipe calls for 1 medium onion, chopped.
What is the texture of the soup described as?
The soup is described as rich, velvety, and indulgent.
What heat level should I use for sautรฉing the onions and chopped mushrooms?
The recipe suggests medium-low to medium heat to ensure the onion softens and mushrooms release their juices without burning.
How much water is added to the condensed broth?
You add 1 3/4 cups of water to the chicken broth.
How long does it take to sautรฉ the onion and mushrooms?
It takes approximately 5-6 minutes for the onion to soften and the mushrooms to release juices.
Is this a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a 'one dish meal' and serves as a satisfying and comforting dish.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
Yes, although fresh parsley is recommended for the best flavor and garnish appearance.
Does the soup use milk or cream?
The recipe specifically uses half-and-half for a balance between milk and heavy cream.