Dive into the rich, velvety world of Hungarian cuisine with this soul-warming mushroom soup that captures the essence of comfort food. Imagine a bowl filled with deep, earthy flavors, a touch of smoky paprika, and a luxurious creamy texture that will transport you straight to a cozy Hungarian kitchen. This soup is more than just a meal – it’s a culinary journey that promises to warm both body and soul.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound (454g) mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 2 teaspoons sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups (590ml) vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk (or dairy alternative)
- ½ cup (120ml) sour cream
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook for 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent, creating a fragrant foundation for the soup.
- Sauté the Mushrooms Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook for 8-10 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to release their moisture and develop a beautiful golden-brown color.
- Add Aromatic Seasonings Sprinkle sweet Hungarian paprika, dried dill, and flour over the mushroom mixture. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the flour is well-incorporated and the spices are evenly distributed.
- Build the Soup Liquid Gradually pour in the vegetable broth, stirring constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Finish with Creamy Touches Stir in the milk, soy sauce, and sour cream. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, being careful not to let the soup boil. If desired, add a splash of lemon juice for a bright, fresh note.
- Final Seasoning Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill just before serving.
Nutrition and Serving
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Approximate Nutrition per Serving:
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 15g
Why Hungarian Mushroom Soup is a Nutritional Powerhouse
This soup is not just a delicious meal, but a nutritional treasure. Mushrooms are packed with essential nutrients, including vitamin D, B vitamins, and antioxidants. The use of paprika provides a boost of vitamin C and adds a distinctive flavor profile. By using whole milk and sour cream, you’re adding calcium and protein, while the minimal use of butter keeps the fat content moderate.
The magic of this soup lies in its versatility. It’s naturally vegetarian when made with vegetable broth, and can easily be adapted for dairy-free diets by using plant-based milk and sour cream alternatives. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner on a cold night or a nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor, this Hungarian Mushroom Soup is your perfect companion!