7 Steps to Make Restaurant-Quality Clear Mushroom Soup at Home

Clear Mushroom Soup, with its delicate broth and earthy aroma, is a dish that speaks of simple elegance. Originating from classic European cuisine, this soup is valued for its light yet deeply flavorful profile, showcasing the pure essence of mushrooms. In this recipe, I’ll show you how to achieve a crystal-clear broth and perfectly tender mushrooms, creating a sophisticated soup that’s surprisingly easy to make.

Quick Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Servings: 6
• Calories: 75 per serving

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1.5 lbs mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake, cremini, and oyster), cleaned and sliced
• 8 cups water
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 2 carrots, roughly chopped
• 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, crushed
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley, for garnish

Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth-lined colander
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Prepare the Broth Base:** In a large pot, combine water, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes to create a flavorful vegetable stock.
2. **Sauté the Mushrooms:** While the broth simmers, in a separate pan, sauté half of the sliced mushrooms over medium-high heat until they release their moisture and turn golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. This step enhances their flavor.
3. **Combine Mushrooms and Broth:** Add the sautéed mushrooms to the simmering vegetable broth. Continue to simmer for another 15 minutes, allowing the mushroom flavor to infuse into the broth.
4. **Strain the Soup:** Carefully pour the soup through a fine-mesh sieve or a colander lined with cheesecloth. Discard the solids to achieve a clear broth.
5. **Season the Broth:** Return the clear broth to the pot. Add soy sauce (if using), salt, and white pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
6. **Add Remaining Mushrooms:** Gently add the remaining fresh, uncooked sliced mushrooms to the clear broth. Simmer for just 2-3 minutes until they are tender but still slightly firm.
7. **Garnish and Serve:** Ladle the hot clear mushroom soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley before serving.

Pro Tips for Success

• **Clarity is Key:** Avoid stirring the soup vigorously while it simmers to prevent clouding.
• **Mushroom Selection:** Use a variety of mushrooms for a more complex flavor profile.
• **Flavor Depth:** For a richer, umami flavor, consider adding a dried shiitake mushroom to the broth while simmering. Remember to remove it before serving.
• **Salt Control:** Be mindful of the salt content if using soy sauce.
• **Make Ahead:** The broth can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and add the fresh mushrooms just before serving.

How to Serve and Present

Serve the Clear Mushroom Soup hot in shallow bowls. Garnish generously with fresh herbs for a pop of color and aroma. Accompany with crusty bread or croutons for a satisfying meal. For a more elegant presentation, consider adding a swirl of cream or a drizzle of truffle oil.

Variations to Try

1. **Ginger-Garlic Infusion:** Add a knob of ginger and an extra clove of garlic to the broth for an Asian-inspired twist.
2. **Wine Enhancement:** Deglaze the pan with a splash of dry sherry or white wine after sautéing the mushrooms for added depth.
3. **Tofu Addition**: Add cubed soft or silken tofu with the fresh sliced mushrooms.

FAQ Section

• **Q: How do I ensure my broth is crystal clear?**
  A: Avoid boiling the soup too vigorously and strain it carefully through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
• **Q: Can I use dried mushrooms?**
  A: Yes, dried mushrooms can add intense flavor. Rehydrate them before use and add them to the broth while simmering.
• **Q: What if I don’t have fresh thyme?**
  A: You can substitute with dried thyme. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried thyme for every 4 sprigs of fresh thyme.
• **Q: Can I freeze this soup?**
  A: The broth can be frozen, but it’s best to add the fresh mushrooms after thawing to maintain their texture.
• **Q: Is this recipe vegetarian/vegan?**
  A: Yes, this recipe is vegetarian and vegan-friendly.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve mastered the art of making Clear Mushroom Soup. This elegant and flavorful soup is perfect as a light starter or a comforting meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of mushrooms and seasonings to create your own signature version. Share your results in the comments! If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like our Creamy Mushroom Soup or Wild Rice and Mushroom Pilaf.