#Recipe Post
##*[Creamy Mushroom & Caramelized Onion Soup with Parmesan Toasties and Bacon]*
One satisfying way to warm up on chilly days is with a savory bowl of this creamy mushroom and caramelized onion soup. The hearty mushrooms and sweet onions combine perfectly with crispy Parmesan toasties and crunchy bacon bits for a wonderfully comforting meal.
##*Why Make This Recipe*
If you’re a fan of homey, flavorful soups, this recipe is a delight. The caramelized onions add a sweet and savory taste contrasted by the earthy mushrooms and crisp bacon. Paired with crunchy, cheesy toasties, it’s a comforting dish you’ll want to make time and time again.
##*How to Make Creamy Mushroom & Caramelized Onion Soup with Parmesan Toasties and Bacon*
The preparation and the process of cooktime involved in this dish is pretty forward. Follow these steps and make a delicious dish for yourself.
##*Ingredients :*
This recipe serves four. Prep time is 20 minutes, and cook time is about 40 minutes.
**For the Soup:**
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb (450g) mushrooms, sliced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme for garnish
**For the Parmesan Toasties:**
– 4 slices of baguette or sourdough bread
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp butter
**For the Bacon:**
– 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
##*Directions :*
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and stir until they turn golden brown and caramelize. This should take about 15 minutes.
2. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the mushrooms and continue cooking until they soften and their liquid evaporates. This step would take about 10 minutes.
3. Pour the stock into the pot and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiled, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes.
4. To purée the soup, use an immersion blender. Finally, stir in the heavy cream, season with salt and black pepper, and let everything warm up on low heat.
5. On the side, butter each slice of bread and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Toast them in a skillet over medium heat until the cheese melts and the bread turns golden.
6. Cook the bacon strips in another frying pan until they’re crispy. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to cool down, then crumble them.
7. Finally, serve the soup by ladling it into individual bowls. Top each serving with crumbled bacon and a garnish of fresh thyme. Don’t forget the Parmesan toasties on the side.
##*How To Serve Creamy Mushroom & Caramelized Onion Soup with Parmesan Toasties and Bacon*
Serve this soup hot with a sprinkle of fresh thyme on top and a side of Parmesan toasties. The crispy, cheesy toasties perfectly complement the rich, creamy soup, and the crumbled bacon adds a delightful crunch.
##*How To Store Creamy Mushroom & Caramelized Onion Soup with Parmesan Toasties and Bacon*
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. As for the toasties, it’s best to enjoy them fresh, but they can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days.
##*Tips to Make Creamy Mushroom & Caramelized Onion Soup with Parmesan Toasties and Bacon*
1. Make sure to stir the onions frequently while caramelizing to avoid burning them.
2. The soup can also be blended in a standing blender if an immersion blender is not available.
3. A variety of mushrooms can be used for different flavors and textures.
##*Variations*
Though this soup is delicious as is, if you’re a fan of cheese, try adding a handful of shredded gruyere or cheddar to the soup for an added layer of flavor.
##*FAQs*
1. Can this soup be frozen for later use?
Yes, this soup freezes well. However, if you’re planning to freeze it, skip the cream. Add it when you’re ready to reheat and serve the soup.
2. Can I substitute the chicken or vegetable stock with beef stock?
Yes, beef stock can also be used in this recipe.
3. I don’t eat bacon. What’s a good substitute?
You can use turkey bacon, or for a vegetarian alternative, try garnishing with crispy fried onions or mushrooms.