Ultimate Creamy Keto Comfort: Low Carb Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of soup, but trying to stick to a low-carb or ketogenic diet? Look no further! This low-carb cream of mushroom soup recipe is the perfect solution. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with umami flavor, all while staying true to your dietary goals. This recipe uses clever substitutions to avoid the high carb counts of traditional cream of mushroom soups, without sacrificing any of the delicious taste. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to indulge in a guilt-free bowl of pure comfort.
This recipe is not only low in carbs but also gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. It is an excellent option for lunch, dinner, or even as a starter for a low-carb meal. The best part? It’s easy to make and can be customized to your personal preferences.
Let’s dive into the details of how to create this culinary masterpiece!
## Why This Low Carb Cream of Mushroom Soup Works
Traditional cream of mushroom soup often relies on flour as a thickening agent, which significantly increases the carb count. This low-carb version cleverly substitutes flour with other ingredients like cream cheese and xanthan gum. These ingredients provide the necessary thickening without adding unnecessary carbs, allowing you to enjoy the creamy texture you crave without the guilt.
Here’s a breakdown of why this recipe is a keto-friendly winner:
* **Low Carb Thickening Agents:** Instead of flour, we use cream cheese and a tiny amount of xanthan gum. Cream cheese adds richness and body, while xanthan gum acts as a powerful thickener, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture.
* **Healthy Fats:** This recipe includes healthy fats from ingredients like heavy cream and butter, which are essential for a ketogenic diet.
* **Umami-Rich Mushrooms:** Mushrooms are naturally low in carbs and high in umami, the savory flavor that makes this soup so satisfying. The combination of different mushroom varieties enhances the depth of flavor.
* **Customizable Flavors:** You can easily adjust the seasonings and ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Add herbs, spices, or even a splash of white wine for extra flavor.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable soup:
* **1 pound Mixed Mushrooms:** Such as cremini, shiitake, oyster, and portobello, sliced. A mix of mushrooms adds complexity to the flavor. Feel free to use your favorites.
* **4 tablespoons Butter:** Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness of the soup. It adds richness and flavor.
* **1 medium Onion:** Chopped. Onion provides a foundational aromatic flavor.
* **2 cloves Garlic:** Minced. Garlic adds a pungent and savory element.
* **4 cups Chicken Broth:** Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content. Vegetable broth can also be used for a vegetarian option.
* **4 ounces Cream Cheese:** Softened. Cream cheese adds creaminess and thickness.
* **1 cup Heavy Cream:** Heavy cream contributes to the rich and velvety texture of the soup.
* **1/4 teaspoon Xanthan Gum:** A little goes a long way! Xanthan gum is a powerful thickener, so use it sparingly.
* **Salt and Black Pepper:** To taste. Season generously to bring out the flavors.
* **Optional Garnishes:** Fresh parsley, chives, or a swirl of cream.
* **1/4 cup dry white wine (optional):** Adds depth of flavor and complexity.
* **1 tbsp of soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free):** Enhances the umami flavor.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create a delicious low-carb cream of mushroom soup:
**Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms**
* In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
* Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until they are softened and have released their moisture. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
* The mushrooms should be nicely browned, which will contribute to the depth of flavor in the soup.
**Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics**
* Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for 3-5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent.
* Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
**Step 3: Deglaze the Pot (Optional)**
* If using white wine, pour it into the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This process, called deglazing, adds a lot of flavor to the soup.
* Let the wine simmer for a minute or two until it reduces slightly.
**Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer**
* Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) and bring the mixture to a simmer.
* Add the soy sauce/tamari.
* Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
**Step 5: Blend the Soup**
* Remove the pot from the heat and carefully transfer the soup to a blender. Alternatively, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot.
* Blend the soup until it is smooth and creamy. Be careful when blending hot liquids, as they can create pressure and cause the blender lid to pop off.
* If using a regular blender, blend in batches and vent the lid to release steam.
**Step 6: Add Cream Cheese and Heavy Cream**
* Return the blended soup to the pot and place it over low heat.
* Add the softened cream cheese and stir until it is completely melted and incorporated into the soup.
* Pour in the heavy cream and stir until the soup is smooth and creamy.
**Step 7: Thicken with Xanthan Gum**
* In a small bowl, whisk together the xanthan gum with a tablespoon of the hot soup. This will prevent the xanthan gum from clumping.
* Pour the mixture into the soup and stir until it is evenly distributed.
* Let the soup simmer for a few minutes, allowing the xanthan gum to thicken it to your desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much xanthan gum, as it can make the soup too thick and gummy.
**Step 8: Season and Serve**
* Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
* If desired, garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or a swirl of cream.
* Serve hot and enjoy!
## Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you customize this low-carb cream of mushroom soup to your liking:
* **Mushroom Variety:** Experiment with different types of mushrooms to create unique flavor profiles. Consider adding porcini, morels, or chanterelles for a gourmet touch. Dried porcini mushrooms can be rehydrated in hot water, and the soaking liquid can be added to the soup for extra umami.
* **Add Protein:** For a more substantial meal, add cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp to the soup. This will increase the protein content and make it more filling.
* **Spice It Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a little kick.
* **Cheese Please:** Stir in some grated Parmesan or Gruyere cheese for added flavor and richness.
* **Vegetarian Option:** Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. You can also add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
* **Make It Ahead:** This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
* **Freezing:** This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
* **Adjusting Thickness:** If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add a tiny amount of xanthan gum (mixed with a little soup) and simmer for a few minutes.
* **Serving Suggestions:** Serve this soup with a side of low-carb bread, cauliflower breadsticks, or a green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also use it as a sauce for chicken or fish.
## Nutritional Information
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Per Serving (estimated, based on 6 servings):
* Calories: Approximately 250-300
* Net Carbs: 5-7 grams
* Fat: 20-25 grams
* Protein: 8-10 grams
This low-carb cream of mushroom soup is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a classic comfort food without derailing your ketogenic or low-carb diet. It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with flavor. So, go ahead and indulge in a bowl of pure creamy goodness!
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**Q: Can I use canned mushrooms?**
A: While fresh mushrooms are highly recommended for the best flavor and texture, canned mushrooms can be used in a pinch. Be sure to drain them well and sauté them to remove excess moisture.
**Q: Is xanthan gum necessary?**
A: Xanthan gum is used to thicken the soup without adding carbs. If you don’t have xanthan gum, you can try using a small amount of cream cheese or letting the soup simmer for a longer time to reduce and thicken naturally, but the texture may not be as smooth.
**Q: Can I make this soup dairy-free?**
A: To make this soup dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or coconut oil, the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative (like cashew cream cheese), and the heavy cream with coconut cream. Be aware that the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
**Q: How do I store leftover soup?**
A: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
**Q: Can I add other vegetables?**
A: Yes! Feel free to add other low-carb vegetables like spinach, kale, or cauliflower for added nutrients and flavor.
**Q: The soup is too thick, what do I do?**
A: Simply add more broth or cream to thin it out. Start with a small amount and stir until you reach your desired consistency.
**Q: The soup is not thick enough, what do I do?**
A: Dissolve 1/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum in 1 tablespoon of cold water and whisk until smooth. Slowly drizzle this mixture into the simmering soup, stirring constantly, until it thickens to your desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much, as it can make the soup gummy.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting low-carb cream of mushroom soup! This recipe is a fantastic addition to your keto or low-carb meal plan, offering a delightful and satisfying way to enjoy the flavors you love without the guilt.