Mushroom and Leek Soup with Thyme Cream

A rich and creamy soup featuring sautéed crimini mushrooms and tender leeks, finished with a luxurious thyme-infused cream topping. This elegant soup combines earthy mushrooms with delicate leeks in a velvety chicken stock base.

8 servings
2 hr 46 min

Ingredients

  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 3 teaspoons fresh thyme
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 pounds crimini mushrooms
  • 3 large leeks
  • 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 6 cups chicken stock
  • teaspoons salt
  • ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Using electric mixer, beat cream just until soft peaks form. Fold in 2 teaspoons thyme. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours to blend flavors. (Thyme cream can be made up to 1 day ahead. If cream separates, whisk until soft peaks re-form. ) Remove from refrigerator 1 hour before serving to come to room temperature.

    120 min

  2. 2.

    In 4-quart stock pot over moderately high heat, heat 2 tablespoons butter until hot but not smoking. Working in 2 batches (add 2 more tablespoons butter before second batch), cook mushrooms, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned, about 8 minutes. Transfer to large bowl.

    16 min

  3. 3.

    In same stock pot over moderate heat, heat remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Stir in leeks, cover, and cook, stirring often, until soft, about 5 minutes. Add cooked mushrooms, sprinkle with flour, and stir until flour is evenly distributed. Stir in stock, then salt, pepper, and remaining 1 teaspoon thyme. Bring to boil, stirring often, then reduce heat to low, set lid ajar, and simmer 20 minutes. (Soup can be made up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated, covered. Reheat before serving.)

    25 min

  4. 4.

    Divide soup among 8 bowls and top each portion with dollop of thyme cream. Serve immediately.

    5 min

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