Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup is one of the world's most famous soup varieties, known for its luxurious flavor and rich, creamy texture, making it a favorite dish among lovers of comforting warm food. This soup has a long history in European cuisine, where it was traditionally served in upscale restaurants as a luxurious appetizer for banquets and special occasions. It later transitioned to home kitchens, becoming a beloved staple, especially in the winter season for the warmth and energy it provides.
Today, creamy chicken soup is part of the global culinary heritage, offering a perfect balance of taste and nutritional value. It combines protein-rich chicken and fiber/mineral-packed mushrooms with the smooth flavor of cream, adding an irresistible touch of luxury.
The Economic Value of the Recipe
A key advantage of Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup is that it is an economical recipe that can be prepared with simple ingredients readily available in every home. Instead of buying expensive pre-packaged soups or restaurant servings, you can prepare a dish of the same – or even better – luxurious taste at a very low cost.
This recipe primarily relies on ingredients like chicken breasts, mushrooms, and cream, components whose quantities can be easily adjusted to fit your budget. For instance, reducing the amount of cream or chicken will not compromise the overall flavor, as the mushrooms impart a rich consistency and delicious taste that compensates for more expensive components. It's a smart and economical recipe suitable for families looking for nutritious and filling meals without overspending.
The Smart Trick for Cost Control and Quantity Management
The smart trick in this recipe lies in the ability to fully control the ingredient ratios, making it suitable for all budgets. For example, you can halve the amount of cream, or use some milk instead. You can also rely on mushrooms to increase the thickness and flavor. Furthermore, the soup can be served as a light appetizer or a main course by adding more chicken and mushrooms, offering flexibility in determining the cost without compromising the dish's quality.
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts (Quantity as desired – quarter or half a kilogram)
- 250g fresh or canned mushrooms
- 1 cup liquid cooking cream
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour (levelled)
- 2-3 tablespoons of corn oil
- 3 to 4 cups of water or chicken stock (or a mix of both)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- A small pinch of sugar
- A little powdered cardamom for a distinctive flavor
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium pot over medium heat, warm the oil and add the chopped onion. Sauté until it turns a light golden color.
- Add the chicken breasts, cut into small cubes, and stir for 5 minutes until the color changes.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and the seasonings (salt, pepper, sugar, cardamom). Stir the mixture gently.
- Add the flour and stir continuously until it is well combined with the ingredients without clumping.
- Gradually pour in the water or chicken stock, stirring constantly until the consistency is smooth.
- Allow the mixture to simmer until the ingredients are cooked through.
- Add the liquid cream and stir one last time. Let it come to a single boil before turning off the heat.
- Serve hot and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Tips for a Successful Recipe
- Use fresh mushrooms for a richer flavor and better texture.
- You can substitute liquid cream with milk plus a teaspoon of butter to reduce fat content.
- To increase the creamy thickness, mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with half a cup of water and add it before the cream.
- Ensure the flour is stirred well to prevent clumps in the soup.
- Do not allow the cream to boil for too long, as it might separate from the soup and lose its smooth texture.
Nutritional Value of Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup
This soup is considered a complete meal, containing:
- Protein: From the chicken breasts, aiding in muscle building and enhancing the feeling of satiety.
- Fiber and Minerals: From the mushrooms, which supply the body with potassium and selenium.
- Calcium and Healthy Fats: From the cream, providing energy and smoothness to the texture.
- Antioxidants: From the onions and spices, which boost immunity and protect cells.
Thus, it is a soup that combines high nutritional value and a luxurious taste, making it perfect as a light lunch or dinner with bread or healthy crackers.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the soup hot with toasted Garlic Bread for an exceptional taste.
- It can be served alongside Healthy Chickpea Crackers as an alternative to chips.
- For a luxurious touch, garnish the top with slices of grilled mushroom or a drizzle of olive oil.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can the cream be replaced with milk?
Yes, you can use milk with a small teaspoon of butter to achieve a similar creamy consistency while reducing the fat content.
Can pre-cooked chicken be used?
Certainly, pre-cooked chicken pieces can be added in the final step before adding the cream to save time.
Is this soup suitable for dieting?
Yes, it can be prepared in a lighter version by using low-fat cream or skim milk to fit healthy dietary plans.
Medical Advisory
Although Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup is nutritious, individuals with dairy allergies or cholesterol concerns should consult a doctor before consuming it regularly. They can substitute the cream with a plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk to achieve the same texture in a healthier way.
Author: Lena
Today's recipe combines luxurious taste, high nutrition, and economic cost. Try it today and serve your family a warm dish that expresses love and home comfort.
