Ret Soup
Introduction
Mushroom and Spinach Soup
A comforting and nutritious soup made with fresh mushrooms, spinach, and aromatic seasonings. This delightful recipe is perfect for a light meal or as an elegant starter, offering a warm embrace of flavors that will both satisfy and nourish.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Fresh mushrooms
300g, sliced
Fresh spinach
200g, chopped
Small onion
1, finely chopped
Garlic
2 cloves, minced
Vegetable broth
500ml
Milk or plant-based alternative
250ml
Olive oil
2 tbsp
Salt
1 tsp
Black pepper
½ tsp
Dried thyme
½ tsp
Flour
1 tbsp (optional, for thickening)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
4 servings
This Mushroom and Spinach Soup is not only simple to prepare but also a nourishing option for any occasion. Enjoy it warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for an added touch of flavor.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add 1 small finely chopped onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
Add 300g of sliced fresh mushrooms to the pot. Cook for approximately 5 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to release their juices.
Step 4: Incorporate Flour (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker soup, sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of flour. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional minute.
Step 5: Add Vegetable Broth
Pour in 500ml of vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 6: Mix in Spinach and Seasonings
Add 200g of chopped fresh spinach, 250ml of milk (or a plant-based alternative), 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of dried thyme. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
Step 7: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper as desired.
Step 8: Serve the Soup
Serve the soup warm. You can garnish it with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Notes
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Vegetarian/Vegan Option
To keep the soup completely vegan, ensure the milk is a plant-based alternative such as almond, soy, or oat milk.
Flavor Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables or herbs to the soup, such as carrots, celery, or parsley, for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Thickening the Soup
If you prefer a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender before serving, or simply use more flour when adding the broth.
Storage Instructions
After cooking, allow the Mushroom and Spinach Soup to cool to room temperature. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The soup will keep fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. To freeze, pour the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and seal tightly. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat gently on the stove until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
This comforting soup can be served as a light meal or an elegant starter. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or chives, or add a drizzle of sour cream or olive oil for extra richness. For a bit of crunch, consider adding croutons or toasted seeds just before serving.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approx. 1 cup):
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 6g
– Fat: 8g
– Carbohydrates: 22g
– Fiber: 3g
– Sugars: 3g
– Sodium: 450mg
This soup is a great source of vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants from the spinach and mushrooms. It is low in calories and packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need to make adjustments, here are some suitable substitutions:
– Fresh mushrooms can be replaced with canned mushrooms or a mix of dried mushrooms rehydrated in warm water.
– For spinach, you can use frozen spinach, just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding to the soup.
– The vegetable broth can be swapped for chicken broth or a homemade stock for added flavor.
– Instead of milk, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
– For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour mix to thicken the soup.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil over relatively high heat. In this soup, onions and garlic are sautéed until soft and fragrant, allowing their flavors to infuse the dish.
Simmering
Simmering involves cooking food gently just below the boiling point. This technique allows the flavors to meld together beautifully in the soup after adding vegetable broth and other ingredients.
Thickening
If desired, flour can be used as a thickening agent. By sprinkling it over the sautéed mushrooms and stirring, you can create a heartier texture for the soup.
Tasting and Adjusting
Tasting the soup before serving is crucial. This step allows you to adjust the seasoning, ensuring the right balance of flavors.
Garnishing
Garnishing can elevate the presentation of the soup. Fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil can add a touch of elegance and additional flavor.
FAQ
Can I use dried mushrooms instead of fresh?
Yes, dried mushrooms can be used, but they need to be rehydrated in water before cooking.
What other greens can I use instead of spinach?
Kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens are great alternatives to spinach.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based milk and ensure the vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, the soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Conclusion
Mushroom and Spinach Soup is a delightful and nourishing dish that seamlessly combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the vibrant freshness of spinach. It offers a perfect balance of taste and nutrition, making it an ideal choice for any meal occasion. With its simple preparation and wholesome ingredients, this soup is not only comforting but also versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round.
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