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10 min
Ingredients
- **Mushrooms:** 1 lb (about 450g) - any kind will do! Cremini, white button, shiitake, or a mix.
- **Raw Cashews:** 1 cup (about 140g), soaked (see tips)
- **Vegetable Broth:** 4 cups (about 950ml)
- **Onion:** 1 medium, chopped
- **Garlic:** 2-3 cloves, minced
- **Olive Oil or other cooking oil:** 2 tbsp
- **Nutritional Yeast (optional but recommended):** 2 tbsp for cheesy flavor
- **Herbs:** Fresh or dried thyme, rosemary, or parsley (about 1 tsp dried or 1 tbsp fresh)
- **Salt and Black Pepper:** To taste
Steps
- 1**Sauté Aromatics:** Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 2**Cook Mushrooms:** Add the sliced or chopped mushrooms to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 8-10 minutes.
- 3**Simmer:** Pour in the vegetable broth. Add your chosen herbs (thyme is classic with mushrooms). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- 4**Blend the Creaminess:** While the soup simmers, drain your soaked cashews. Place the soaked cashews, nutritional yeast (if using), salt, and pepper into a high-speed blender. Add about 1 cup of the hot broth mixture from the pot.
- 5**Blend Until Smooth:** Blend the cashew mixture until completely smooth and creamy. This might take a minute or two depending on your blender.
- 6**Combine and Heat:** Pour the creamy cashew mixture back into the pot with the remaining soup. Stir well to combine. Gently heat the soup over low heat, stirring constantly, until warmed through. Do not boil after adding the cashew cream.
- 7**Adjust and Serve:** Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
FridgeChef's "Use What You Have" Cashew Cream of Mushroom Soup (Vegan)
Don't let those wilting mushrooms or half-used cashews go to waste! This cashew cream of mushroom soup is a testament to the magic of cooking with what you already have. It's surprisingly rich, incredibly flavorful, and entirely plant-based. Say goodbye to food waste and hello to a comforting bowl of deliciousness.
Quick Tips for Success
- Soaking Cashews: If you forgot to soak your cashews, you can do a quick soak by boiling them in water for 10 minutes, then draining. For a no-soak method, a very high-powered blender might work, but soaking ensures maximum creaminess.
- Mushroom Variety: Don't be afraid to mix mushroom types for a deeper flavor profile.
- Flavor Boost: A splash of white wine or a teaspoon of soy sauce/tamari added with the broth can enhance the umami.
- Thickening: If your soup is too thick, add a little more broth or water. If it's too thin, blend a small portion of the soup and add it back, or simmer gently uncovered for a few extra minutes (be careful not to scorch).
Reduce Waste, Eat Well
This recipe is a fantastic way to clear out your fridge and pantry before your next grocery run. By using versatile ingredients like mushrooms and cashews, you can create a gourmet-tasting soup with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Give it a try and see how simple it is to make delicious meals from what you already have!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I make this soup without cashews? A: Yes! You can substitute soaked raw sunflower seeds (soak for at least 4 hours) or use a plant-based milk like unsweetened soy or oat milk, though the creaminess might be slightly less rich.
- Q: How long does this soup last? A: This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Q: Can I freeze this soup? A: Yes, it freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
- Q: What kind of mushrooms are best? A: Any kind works! Cremini mushrooms offer a good balance of flavor and texture. Shiitake mushrooms add a deeper, more intense umami flavor.
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