Mary Berry Mushroom Soup

Dive into the world of cozy and comforting flavors with the Mary Berry Mushroom Soup, a dish that epitomizes warmth and elegance. This soup, a creation of the renowned British culinary expert Mary Berry, is an ideal choice for those chilly days when you crave something hearty yet sophisticated.

Brief Description of the Recipe

Mary Berry's Mushroom Soup combines the earthiness of chestnut mushrooms with the richness of cream, creating a luxurious texture and depth of flavor. Chestnut mushrooms, known for their firm texture and earthy taste, serve as the foundation of this dish, elevating it from a simple mushroom soup to a gastronomic delight.

Cultural or Historical Context

Mushroom soup has long been a staple in many cultures, appreciated for its comforting warmth and nutritional benefits. Mary Berry, a respected figure in British cooking, brings her signature touch to this classic dish, making it easy yet impressive, perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Ingredients List

• Butter: 55g (2oz)
• Sunflower oil: 1 tbsp
• Onions (finely chopped): 2
• Celery sticks (diced): 2
• Garlic clove (finely grated): 1
• Chestnut mushrooms (sliced): 1kg (2lb 4oz)
• Chicken or vegetable stock: 700ml (1¼ pints)
• Soy sauce: 2 tbsp
• Pouring double cream: 150ml (¼ pint)
• Freshly chopped parsley: 3 tbsp

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin by melting butter with oil in a large saucepan, then sauté onions and celery.
2. Add garlic and mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are tender.
3. Incorporate the stock, bring to a boil, then simmer until all vegetables are soft.
4. Puree the soup until smooth, then reintroduce to the pan, mixing in soy sauce and most of the cream.
5. Season to taste and serve garnished with cream and parsley.

Storage and Reheating

Mary Berry's Mushroom Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm the soup in a saucepan over medium heat or in a microwave until heated through.

Nutritional Information

While specific nutritional details vary, this soup is a good source of protein from the mushrooms and provides a moderate amount of calories, mainly from the cream and butter. It's also rich in vitamins and minerals present in the mushrooms and vegetables.

FAQ about Mary Berry Mushroom Soup

• Can I use other types of mushrooms? Yes, while chestnut mushrooms are preferred for their flavor, you can experiment with other varieties such as button or cremini mushrooms.
• Is there a dairy-free alternative to cream? For a dairy-free version, you could use coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
• Can this soup be made in advance? Absolutely, this soup can be prepared up to 2 days ahead, making it a convenient option for meal planning.

In conclusion, Mary Berry's Mushroom Soup is more than just a dish; it's a comforting embrace in the form of a rich, flavorful broth. Whether you're seeking solace on a rainy day or aiming to impress dinner guests, this soup promises elegance and warmth in every spoonful. Original recipe by Mary Berry from "Mary Makes it Easy"​​​​.