ADVERTISEMENT
How to Make Mushroom & Caramelized Onion Soup with Cheesy Toasties and Bacon
1. Caramelize the Onions
The key to a deep, flavorful soup is the caramelized onions. Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally, allowing the onions to cook slowly for 25-30 minutes. The goal is to bring out their natural sweetness by allowing them to soften and turn a deep golden-brown color. This slow cooking process will give the soup a rich, savory base.
Once the onions are nicely caramelized, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Cook the Mushrooms
Now, add the sliced mushrooms to the pot. Mushrooms release moisture as they cook, so allow them to sauté for 8-10 minutes until they release their juices and start to brown. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and soak up the flavors of the caramelized onions.
3. Add the Broth and Seasoning
Once the mushrooms have cooked down, pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. If you’re using white wine, add it now to deglaze the pot, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Stir in the fresh thyme and rosemary, then bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
For a creamier soup, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream. This will give the soup a luxurious, velvety texture, but it’s optional if you prefer a lighter soup.
4. Prepare the Cheesy Toasties
While the soup simmers, make the cheesy toasties. Start by preheating your oven’s broiler. Butter one side of each slice of rustic bread. Place the buttered side down on a baking sheet, and spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard (optional) on the other side. Pile on the shredded cheese of your choice, and then place the bread under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is golden brown and crispy.
Once the cheesy toasties are done, remove them from the oven and set them aside. Slice them into quarters, ready to serve with the soup.
5. Cook the Bacon
While the cheesy toasties are in the oven, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the bacon slices until they’re crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side, and then chop them into small pieces. Set the crispy bacon aside for garnish.
6. Blend the Soup (Optional)
For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it’s creamy, or transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. If you prefer a chunkier texture, skip this step and keep the soup as it is.
7. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a few pieces of cheesy toasties. Sprinkle the crispy bacon over the top for an added crunch and savory flavor. If desired, garnish with a little extra fresh thyme or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for even more depth.
Tips for Perfect Mushroom & Caramelized Onion Soup
- Use a Variety of Mushrooms: Mixing different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake, cremini, or button mushrooms, adds complexity and depth to the flavor of the soup.
- Slow-Cook the Onions: Caramelizing the onions slowly over low heat is crucial for developing the soup’s rich, sweet flavor. Be patient—this step is what sets the soup apart.
- Add a Touch of Wine: If you’re using wine, don’t skip the deglazing step. The wine adds acidity and depth, helping to balance the richness of the mushrooms and onions.
- Customize the Toasties: Feel free to switch up the type of bread or cheese for your toasties. Gruyère or fontina work wonderfully, and a hearty sourdough adds extra texture. You can also add a dash of garlic powder or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
- Make Ahead: This soup is even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. You can make it in advance and simply reheat it before serving. The toasties and bacon should be prepared fresh, though.
Why This Soup Is So Special
Mushroom & Caramelized Onion Soup with Cheesy Toasties and Bacon brings together the best of comfort food in one bowl. The umami-rich mushrooms combined with the sweet caramelized onions create a soup that’s deeply satisfying. The crispy bacon and cheesy toasties add the perfect finishing touch, giving you layers of texture and flavor that make every spoonful a delight.
This dish is perfect for any occasion, from a cozy night in to a more elegant dinner gathering. It’s hearty, comforting, and a true crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Conclusion: A Bowl of Comfort and Flavor
There’s no better way to chase away the chill than with a steaming bowl of Mushroom & Caramelized Onion Soup with Cheesy Toasties and Bacon. This soup combines the earthy, hearty flavors of mushrooms and onions with the savory crunch of crispy bacon and melted cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food—rich, filling, and full of depth, making it perfect for any day of the week when you need a little extra warmth and love in your life.
So next time you’re craving something cozy and indulgent, whip up this mushroom and caramelized onion soup, and let it become your go-to dish for any occasion. You’ll be rewarded with a meal that’s not only delicious but incredibly satisfying—one bowl at a time.
ADVERTISEMENT
