Ingredients
- Cremini Mushrooms: 1 pound, sliced
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: 4 cups
- Small Curd Cottage Cheese: 1 cup
- Yellow Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 2: Add the sliced mushrooms and dried thyme to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their liquid and are browned, about 10-12 minutes. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Step 3: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat and simmer gently for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 4: Carefully transfer about 2/3 of the soup mixture to a blender, or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until the soup is smooth and creamy, then return the blended portion to the pot.
- Step 5: Stir in the small curd cottage cheese and heat through for 3-5 minutes. Do not allow the soup to come to a boil once the cottage cheese has been added. Taste and adjust seasonings before serving hot.
Notes
- Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; if freezing, omit the cottage cheese and stir it in fresh upon reheating the thawed base.
- When reheating, use very low heat on the stovetop and stir constantly; rapid boiling will cause the incorporated cottage cheese to curdle and turn grainy.
- To build the best depth of flavor, ensure the cremini mushrooms are deeply caramelized—cook until the released liquid evaporates entirely and they are truly browned before adding the broth.
- For a satisfying contrast, serve immediately topped with croutons or a drizzle of good quality olive oil and a dash of cayenne for subtle heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American