Creamy French Onion Mushroom (Print Version)

Rich soup blending caramelized onions, mushrooms, and cream for a comforting, flavorful dish.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
02 - 10 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 stalk celery, finely chopped

→ Dairy

05 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
06 - 1/2 cup heavy cream

→ Liquids

07 - 4 cups vegetable broth
08 - 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)

→ Seasonings

09 - 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
10 - 1 bay leaf
11 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

12 - 4 slices baguette, toasted (optional)
13 - 2 ounces Gruyère or Swiss cheese, grated (optional)
14 - Chopped fresh parsley

# Method:

01 - In a large heavy-bottomed pot, melt unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir frequently until onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 25 to 30 minutes.
02 - Add minced garlic and chopped celery; sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and softened.
03 - Stir in sliced mushrooms, cooking until tender and lightly browned, about 8 minutes.
04 - Pour in dry white wine (if using), scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine reduce by half, about 2 minutes.
05 - Add vegetable broth, fresh thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
06 - Remove bay leaf. Lower heat and stir in heavy cream. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes without boiling. Taste and adjust with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
07 - If desired, ladle soup into oven-safe bowls, top each with a toasted baguette slice, sprinkle with grated Gruyère, and broil until cheese is bubbly and golden.
08 - Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy to make for a restaurant:worthy result at home
  • Rich flavor without any complicated steps
  • Vegetarian friendly and adaptable to vegan diets
  • Family favorite that is cozy enough for winter yet elegant for guests
02 -
  • Excellent source of fiber and vitamin B from mushrooms and onions
  • Creamy yet not overly heavy
  • Freezes well for make:ahead meals
03 -
  • Do not rush the onion caramelizing step. This sets the whole flavor base.
  • For luxuriously smooth soup blend half before adding cream and mix back in.
  • Try seasoning with a pinch of smoked paprika when sautéing mushrooms for a subtle earthy undertone.