Mushroom Soup
45 Min
DF
GF
NF

Mushroom Soup

The Chinese lunar year, guided by the moon’s rhythm, is unfolding as we enter the year of the horse. It’s a time for fresh beginnings, renewed energy and spring joy. It is up to us to harness the energy of the ‘young thoroughbred’ in a mindful way and use it to our benefit. In keeping with the spirit of fresh starts, let’s celebrate with a simple aromatic mushroom soup. You can make this just as is or if you can get your hands on wild foraged mushrooms like chantarelles or morels, it will only increase the flavor of the soup. For the spinach to taste silky smooth, slide the leaves in the soup just before serving.

Share this recipe
Cook Time

45 minutes + Rest Time

Serves

4

Step 1
In a medium stockpot over high heat, warm the sesame oil. Add the sliced onions, mushrooms and garlic and cook on high heat until the mushrooms have reduced and most of their liquid has been absorbed.
Step 2
Add the star anise, red chiles, salt, black pepper, chicken broth and ginger and bring the soup to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes. Then turn the heat off and let the soup rest for 20 to 30 minutes. Add more stock or water if the soup has become too thick.
Step 3
When ready to serve, warm the soup and slide in the spinach leaves. Do not cook the spinach. Garnish with cilantro and serve with toppings.

3 tablespoons sesame oil

1/2 medium sliced onion

2 teaspoons minced garlic

4 cups of sliced mushrooms (button, shitake or cremini)

3 to 4 whole star anise

8 to 10 whole red dried chiles

1 teaspoon sea salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

3 cups chicken broth (or water)

2 tablespoons minced ginger

2 cups spinach leaves

Optional toppings:

Soy sauce

Rice wine vinegar

Minced cilantro

Notes & Variations

  • You could use regular or toasted sesame oil and if not, use peanut or sunflower oil.
  • Add tofu, shrimp or pulled chicken pieces to amplify the soup, however, add those towards the end so they don’t overcook.
  • For a vegetarian version, try making a stock using dry mushrooms, celery, bell peppers or any other vegetables in season.
Tags:
45 Min
DF
GF
NF

Why was the mushroom always invited to the kitchen?

Because he’s a champignon!

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.