Hungarian Mushroom Soup is a comforting, hearty dish with a rich, earthy flavor. It’s made with a blend of fresh mushrooms, onions, and garlic, simmered in a savory broth and finished with a splash of cream and a hint of paprika for that unmistakable Hungarian flair. The soup is wonderfully creamy, velvety, and packed with depth, making it a perfect choice for chilly days or whenever you crave something warm and satisfying. With its unique combination of spices and smooth texture, Hungarian Mushroom Soup is an ideal dish to cozy up with on any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh mushrooms, sliced (preferably cremini or white mushrooms)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika (preferably Hungarian sweet paprika)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or sour cream for a tangier taste)
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the butter or oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until they release their moisture and become tender. Stir in the paprika, thyme, and dill (if using), and cook for another minute to allow the spices to bloom.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir to combine (this is optional, but it helps thicken the soup). Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream (or sour cream) and soy sauce or salt. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes until it’s heated through and reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Hungarian Mushroom Soup is a deeply flavorful, creamy soup that’s easy to make and full of savory goodness. It’s perfect for a cozy meal on a cool day and brings the warmth of Hungarian cuisine right to your kitchen!