Creamy Chestnut Mushroom Soup

Creamy Chestnut Mushroom Soup

Fresh Pholiota adiposa chestnut mushrooms with golden-orange caps

Velvety, earthy, and deeply satisfying – this gourmet mushroom soup is comfort in a bowl.

This luxurious Chestnut Mushroom soup showcases the nutty, complex flavor that makes these premium mushrooms a chef's favorite. Rich, creamy, and ready in just 30 minutes, it's the perfect comfort food for cozy evenings.

Why Chestnut Mushrooms?

Their firm, crisp texture and distinctive nutty flavor create a soup that's rich and complex without being heavy. Chestnut Mushrooms bring depth that button mushrooms simply can't match. They hold their shape beautifully when cooked and add an earthy umami that elevates this soup from simple to spectacular.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Chestnut Mushrooms, cleaned and sliced (or 2 oz. dried)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley and crusty bread for serving

Instructions

  1. Sauté aromatics: Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook 5 minutes until softened.
  2. Cook the mushrooms: Add Chestnut Mushrooms and cook 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and their moisture has released.
  3. Add garlic: Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Simmer: Pour in broth, add thyme and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes.
  5. Blend: Remove thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth (or leave chunky for texture).
  6. Finish: Stir in cream, season with salt and pepper, and heat through. Don't boil after adding cream.
  7. Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, microgreens, and a drizzle of cream. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Chef's Tips

  • Using dried mushrooms: If using our dried Chestnut Mushrooms, rehydrate 2 oz in warm water for 20 minutes. Save the soaking liquid to add to your broth for extra flavor!
  • Texture preference: Blend completely for silky smooth soup, or pulse just a few times for a chunkier, rustic texture.
  • Dairy-free option: Coconut cream works beautifully and adds a subtle sweetness that complements the nutty mushrooms.
  • Make ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Flavor boost: Add a splash of dry sherry or white wine when cooking the mushrooms for extra depth.

Nutritional Benefits

Chestnut mushrooms are rich in B vitamins, selenium, copper, and antioxidants. They support immune function, provide essential minerals, and offer anti-inflammatory properties. This warming soup delivers both comfort and nutrition in every spoonful.

Serving Suggestions

This elegant soup pairs beautifully with crusty sourdough bread, a simple green salad, or our Simple Garlic Butter Mushrooms as an appetizer. For a complete meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Related Recipes

Love this soup? Try these other delicious mushroom recipes:

Ready to make this delicious soup? Shop our premium Dried Chestnut Mushrooms or explore our full collection of gourmet mushrooms!

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 30 minutes | Serves: 4-6