Wild Mushroom Bisque

Experience the deep, earthy essence of the forest with this Wild Mushroom Bisque. This luxuriously creamy soup brings together a rich medley of wild mushrooms and aromatic fresh thyme, all elevated by a splash of dry sherry for sophisticated depth and elegance.

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With a total time of 55 minutes, this medium-difficulty French soup is an ideal choice for a comforting lunch or an impressive dinner party starter. The base of leeks, garlic, and onions creates a fragrant foundation that lets the wild mushrooms truly shine.

Ingredients

• Mushrooms
• 500 g (1.1 lbs) mixed wild mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, chanterelle, oyster), cleaned and sliced
• Aromatics
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium leek (white and light green parts only), sliced
• Herbs & Seasonings
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• ¾ tsp fine sea salt (plus more to taste)
• Liquids
• 60 ml (¼ cup) dry sherry
• 950 ml (4 cups) vegetable or chicken broth
• 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream
• Garnish
• Fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped (optional)
• Extra sautéed mushrooms (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, leek, and garlic; sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened but not browned.

Step 2

Add the sliced mushrooms and thyme. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their liquid and are golden, about 10 minutes.

Step 3

Season with salt and pepper. Pour in the sherry, stirring to deglaze the pot and scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 2 minutes until the alcohol has mostly evaporated.

Step 4

Add the broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, lower the heat, and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes to meld flavors.

Step 5

Remove from heat. Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth (or, in batches, carefully blend in a countertop blender).

Step 6

Stir in the cream. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Return to low heat if necessary to warm through, but do not boil.

Step 7

Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh chives, parsley, or extra sautéed mushrooms if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra depth, add a small handful of dried porcini mushrooms (reconstituted and chopped) along with the fresh mushrooms. If you prefer a chunkier texture, reserve a small portion of sautéed mushrooms before blending and stir them back into the finished soup.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and cream alternatives. If you are serving strict vegetarians, ensure that the broth used is vegetable-based.

Serviervorschläge

This bisque pairs beautifully with a crusty baguette and a glass of dry white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.

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With 230 calories per serving, this Wild Mushroom Bisque is a wholesome yet decadent way to enjoy the season's best produce. Serve it warm and enjoy the refined, silky finish of this classic French-inspired soup.

Recipe FAQ

→ What types of mushrooms work best?

A mix of wild mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, chanterelle, and oyster gives the soup its rich, earthy flavor.

→ Can I make this bisque vegan?

Yes, substitute butter and cream with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth to maintain the vegetarian-friendly profile.

→ What is the role of sherry in this dish?

Sherry adds a subtle sweetness and depth, enhancing the savory notes while deglazing the pot for rich flavor.

→ How can I add texture to the soup?

Reserve some sautéed mushrooms before blending and stir them back in for a chunkier, more rustic consistency.

→ What herbs complement wild mushrooms here?

Fresh thyme is used to add an aromatic, earthy touch that pairs beautifully with the mushroom medley.