Mushroom Bisque
A creamy mushroom bisque with rich flavors of mushrooms, onions, and cream, perfect for cozy gatherings or elegant starters that delight mushroom lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy 4-quart pot, melt margarine over moderate heat.
- Stir in flour and cook about 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Stir in chicken broth until smooth.
- Add chopped mushrooms and finely chopped onion.
- Bring mixture to a simmer.
- Cover and cook about 20 minutes over moderate heat.
- Stir in milk, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
- Heat until warm and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of wild mushrooms instead of just button mushrooms. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with additional milk. To thicken the bisque without flour, you can blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot. This technique is also used in recipes like Tennessee Cheddar Soup for a creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the mushroom bisque hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of truffle oil for an elegant touch. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside grilled chicken recipes, such as Savory Glazed Chicken, for a satisfying combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover mushroom bisque in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling, as this can separate the cream. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk to restore the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mushroom Bisque contains roughly 1303 calories, with 13g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 111g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1267mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this bisque vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this mushroom bisque vegetarian by substituting chicken broth with vegetable broth. Additionally, ensure that the margarine used is plant-based. This alteration will still provide a delicious flavor while keeping the dish meat-free.
How can I make this bisque ahead of time?
To prepare the bisque ahead of time, follow the recipe up to step 7, then cool the soup completely before storing it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, adding the cream just before serving for the best texture.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of sherry or white wine to the pot after cooking the flour, before adding the broth. You can also incorporate garlic or thyme during cooking for additional depth, enhancing the overall taste of the bisque.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).