Mushroom and spinach soup is a hearty, nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect for a light meal or a starter.
Let’s dive into the steps to prepare this wholesome vegetarian mushroom and spinach soup.
Pin it for later!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to gather to make this savory soup:
- 1 lb mushrooms, chopped
You can use a variety of mushrooms to enhance the flavors. Cremini, button mushrooms, or shiitake mushrooms all work well. Choose whichever you prefer, or mix them for a deeper, more complex taste. - 2 cups fresh spinach
Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients, rich in iron, vitamins, and antioxidants. Fresh spinach works best, but if you only have frozen spinach on hand, that’s also an option — just be sure to drain it thoroughly. - 1 onion, diced
The onion provides a nice base for the soup’s flavor, adding sweetness and complexity. Red or yellow onions are best, but you can also use white onions for a sharper taste. - 3 garlic cloves, minced
Garlic is a must for enhancing the overall flavor of the soup. Fresh garlic is ideal, but you can substitute garlic powder if necessary. - 4 cups vegetable broth
A good vegetable broth acts as the soup’s backbone. Whether store-bought or homemade, choose one that is rich in flavor to enhance the soup’s overall depth. - 1 tsp cumin
Cumin brings warmth and a hint of spice to the soup, making it more interesting and balancing out the earthy mushrooms. - 2 tbsp olive oil
Olive oil helps sauté the vegetables and adds a subtle richness. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its health benefits and flavor. - Salt and pepper, to taste
Adjust these seasonings according to your preference at the end of the cooking process.
Now that you have all your ingredients prepared, let’s get into the steps to bring this dish to life.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
To begin, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the diced onion. Cook the onion for about 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently. You’ll know the onion is ready when it turns translucent and begins to soften.
Next, toss in the minced garlic. Garlic can burn easily, so stir constantly and allow it to cook for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Garlic adds an irresistible aroma to the soup and enhances the umami flavor of the mushrooms.
Step 2: Add the Mushrooms and Cumin
After the onion and garlic are cooked, it’s time to add the star of the dish — the mushrooms. Add the chopped mushrooms directly into the pot. Stir well to ensure the mushrooms are evenly distributed and coated with the sautéed onions and garlic.
Allow the mushrooms to cook for about 5–10 minutes. Mushrooms release water as they cook, so at first, they may seem to steam rather than fry. However, as the moisture evaporates, the mushrooms will start to brown and develop a richer flavor. Browning the mushrooms is essential because it deepens their natural umami notes.
While the mushrooms are cooking, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of cumin. The cumin infuses the soup with a smoky, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the mushrooms. Stir the cumin thoroughly into the mixture, making sure it coats the vegetables evenly.
Step 3: Add the Vegetable Broth
Once the mushrooms have browned and the cumin has been incorporated, it’s time to add the liquid base of the soup. Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth, stirring the pot as you go. The broth will combine with the cooked vegetables and spices, creating a rich soup base.
Bring the broth to a gentle simmer. Allow the soup to simmer for about 15 minutes, uncovered. This will allow all the flavors to meld together, giving the soup a deeper, more integrated taste.
While the soup simmers, take a moment to taste it. Adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper to your liking. Start with a pinch of each, stir, and taste again. Adding these seasonings in increments ensures you don’t overdo it.
Step 4: Add the Fresh Spinach
Now, for the final step — adding the spinach. Fresh spinach wilts quickly in hot liquids, so it should be added just before serving. Stir the spinach into the soup in batches if needed, ensuring that it gets submerged in the broth. As it wilts, it will shrink down significantly.
Allow the spinach to cook for about 2–3 minutes, just until wilted but still vibrant in color. The spinach adds a pop of green to the soup, making it not only nutritious but also visually appealing.
Step 5: Final Taste and Serve
Once the spinach is wilted, give the soup a final taste. If necessary, adjust the salt, pepper, or cumin levels to suit your preference. The balance of flavors should be warm and savory, with the earthiness of the mushrooms complemented by the mild sweetness of the sautéed onion and garlic, along with the hint of spice from the cumin.
Your mushroom and spinach soup is now ready to be served! Ladle it into bowls and, if desired, drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil over the top for added richness. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, or a sprinkle of red chili flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Tips for Customizing the Soup
- Add creaminess: For a richer soup, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end.
- Boost protein: Toss in a handful of cooked chickpeas or lentils to make the soup more filling.
- Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or freshly chopped chili for an extra kick.
- Use different greens: If you don’t have spinach on hand, you can substitute kale, Swiss chard, or arugula.
Serving Suggestions
Mushroom and spinach soup is versatile and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with sides. Serve it with crusty bread, a grilled cheese sandwich, or a simple side salad for a complete meal. It’s light enough to be an appetizer but hearty enough to stand alone as a main course, especially when paired with a protein-rich side.
Conclusion
This vegetarian mushroom and spinach soup is both nutritious and satisfying, making it a great choice for any meal. The combination of earthy mushrooms, fresh spinach, and the warming spices of cumin creates a flavorful dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly day or a light dinner, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
