When winter brings along its chilly weather, there’s nothing better than a hearty bowl of soup. Food is medicine, especially during the cold winter months when your body can use all the support it can get. Mushrooms, with their powerhouse of immune support, are the perfect ingredient to mix into your soups to keep you feeling healthy all winter long.
Imagine the rich aroma of mushrooms wafting through your kitchen, promising comfort and warmth. That’s my favorite part about this mushroom soup recipe, formulated to satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body when the days are shorter. Packed with immune-boosting properties and earthy flavors, this recipe is a perfect addition to your winter menu.
I don’t know about you, but soup is actually one of my love languages. I am always happier when there is a pot of soup on the stove, especially on those days when it feels like the sun just finally got up and it is already going down! Thank goodness the wheel keeps turning and the days keep getting lighter and lighter.
The Benefits of Making Homemade Soup
I know life moves fast every day… Wait? It’s already 4:00pm?? Which is how the convenience of canned soups can find their way into the dinner menu. I get it—sometimes we’re too tired or don’t have the time to fuss with getting out the pots and pans and prepping all the ingredients for something homemade.
Opening up a can of soup is definitely not beyond me, I have a stash of them in the pantry, but for the most part, homemade is where it’s at. I always like to think of the 80/20 rule. We eat homemade around 80% of the time and 20% packaged food or restaurants.
As you know, convenience comes at a cost; canned soups are notorious for containing significantly more sodium than homemade alternatives. Instead of the good salt you have at home, the canned soups are full of processed and less healthy salt with sometimes more than 800 mg or more in one can!
Some cans also contain the harmful chemical known as BPA. The canning process can also lead to a loss of nutrients.
“Learning the art of soup-making is a fantastic way to take your health into your own hands.”
By crafting your own medicinal soup at home, you have a delicious and health-conscious alternative to the canned options. Learning the art of soup-making is a fantastic way to take your health into your own hands. When you create your soup from scratch, you control the ingredients, ensuring a perfect balance of flavor and nutrition.
This philosophy is at the heart of my online course, My Herbal Kitchen, where I guide you through the process of creating nourishing kitchen staples that you can weave into your meals. Together, we explore the transformative power of herbs and wholesome ingredients for crafting meals that not only delight the taste buds but also support your health.
A Soup Made from Wholesome Ingredients
Indulge in our mushroom soup recipe, lovingly crafted using a diverse mix of mushrooms and aromatic herbs. Beyond the rich flavors, this meal offers a variety of health benefits, making each comforting bowl a delightful journey into wellness.
Maitake (Grifola frondosa)
Also known as hen-of-the-wood, maitake mushrooms are not only delicious but also great for your health. They can boost your immune system, helping your body fight off illnesses. Maitake mushrooms can also contribute to well-being by reducing stress on your body.
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
These mushrooms are known for supporting brain health, potentially enhancing memory and cognitive function. They may also have anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to overall well-being. Adding lion’s mane to your diet can be a delicious way to nourish both your taste buds and your brain.
Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)
Renowned for immune function support, these mushrooms act as natural defenders against illnesses. Packed with anti-inflammatory compounds, shiitakes offer a flavorful and healthful addition to your meals.
Oyster (Pleurotus ostreatus)
Known for their mild flavor, oyster mushrooms fortify your body’s defenses naturally. Abundant in antioxidants, they also play a role in reducing oxidative stress.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Thyme is more than a flavorful herb; it’s a winter wellness hero. Packed with antioxidants, thyme supports your immune system, and its natural compounds may also provide relief for coughs and colds.
Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)
Rich in antioxidants, rosemary supports your immune system during colder seasons, providing a natural boost. Additionally, it adds a flavorful touch to your winter dishes, making it a delightful and healthful herb to include in your meals.
The Perfect Mushroom Soup Recipe for Winter
Nothing says home and comfort like a warm bowl of soup! If you’re having a hard time finding these mushrooms in your grocery store, check out your local farmer’s market for fresh varieties. If fresh options are scarce, consider dried mushrooms—a convenient alternative. Rehydrate them as part of your mushroom soup recipe meal prep for a robust flavor boost.
When it comes to my recipes, it’s all about flexibility. Mushrooms are no exception. Don’t stress if you can’t track down a specific type I mention. Just work with what’s accessible to you. Cooking should be about ease and enjoying the process, so use whatever mushrooms you have on hand and make it your own. No need to overcomplicate things—just have fun in the kitchen!
I hope you enjoy this recipe, chock-full of delicious, powerful mushrooms and herbs.
Mushroom Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or dried mixed mushrooms (such as maitake, lion’s mane, shiitake, and oyster)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 4 cups vegetable or bone broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 can coconut milk (6.75 oz)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- Fresh parsley or croutons, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Start here if you’re using dried mushrooms:
- Place the dried mushrooms in a bowl and cover them with hot water.
- Let them soak for about 20-30 minutes until they become tender.
- Strain the mushrooms.
Start here if you’re using fresh mushrooms:
- Chop all vegetables, including the rehydrated or fresh mushrooms, into small pieces.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, carrot, and celery and cook until the onion is translucent.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add mushrooms, potato, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, vegetable broth, and bay leaf to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf from the pot.
- Using an immersion blender or transferring the soup to a blender, puree the soup until smooth.
- Return the soup to the pot and stir in the coconut milk.
- Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, until warm.
- Taste the soup and add salt and pepper, adjusting to your liking.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley and croutons, if desired.
Mushrooms Are Must-Haves for Winter Wellness
I hope you savor every spoonful of this mushroom soup recipe. Mushrooms, with their immune-boosting magic, make for a perfect companion to your wellness journey. Enjoy and don’t forget to share with your friends and family this winter!
Excited about recipes like this one? Consider enrolling in the My Herbal Kitchen online course to discover the power of medicinal meals with me.
And be sure to check out these other blog posts for more inspiration of what to whip up at home in your kitchen:
Stinging Nettle Soup Recipe
Immunity Soup for Breakfast
