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What
about the mushroom soup?
When the
nights are
cold and dreary, nothing hits the spot quite like a hearty soup. Here
are a few ideas for one such meal that will win applause from your
family: the ubiquitous international comfort food, mushroom soup.
Mushroom soup
is a
savory soup of simple origins, which usually begins with a roux of
flour and butter. The classic base of mushroom soup is a creamy broth
that perfectly complements the juicy texture and flavor of mushrooms.
This soup is so easy to make, yet may easily be made into a gourmet
meal.
While just the
regular white mushroom may be used, you may also include a variety of
mushrooms, fresh or dried, to produce a truly delightful four-star
dish. Well-chosen seasonings transform this soup into a heavenly
concoction fit for a King.
Mushroom soup
can be
economical, even when composing a mixture of mushroom varieties,
because just one or two mushrooms of each kind become a bonanza of
flavor. Among the fresh varieties, there are white, cremini and
portabellos, readily available at the grocery. Upscale groceries and
specialty shops carry dried mushrooms, such as shiitake, enoki and
other exotic varieties.
Dried
mushrooms add
complex and subtle flavor to your mushroom soup recipe. Although these
exotic varieties are a bit more expensive, it takes just two or three
mushrooms of each type for a kettle full of gourmet taste. To use,
place the dried mushrooms in a small bowl of water. They will
reconstitute in about 15 minutes. Don't throw away the water. Add this
flavorful juice to your soup pot.
There are a
number
of seasonings that go well with mushroom soup. Thyme, sage, marjoram or
a bouquet garni each add a lovely savory flavor. Fresh chives and
parsley add a bright note.
One medium
diced
onion may be added to your soup, prepared in one of three ways. You may
saute the onion lightly in butter, or saute to the point of
caramelizing, or simply add the raw onion to the soup pot. Each method
produces a slightly different texture and flavor. Raw onion tends to
retain a crunchy texture. Lightly sauteeing makes the onion softer with
a more subtle flavor. Caramelizing adds a rich note that complements
the juiciness of the mushrooms and increases the complexity of flavors.
A batch of
mushroom
soup can be prepared in about 30 minutes. To make about 8 cups of soup,
use 6 cups of milk and a total of 2 cups of mushrooms in whatever mix
you desire. Begin by making the roux. Melt 3 tablespoons of butter over
low heat in your pot. Add 3 tablespoons of flour, 1 tablespoon at a
time, stirring constantly with a whisk. Allow the roux to cook for a
few minutes to cook off the floury taste. Gradually add the milk,
whisking until the roux and milk are thoroughly mixed. Add the
mushrooms, seasoning and onions. Continue cooking for about thirty
minutes. Voila! Mushroom soup is ready to serve...the superior gourmet
comfort food.
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