Vegan Mushroom Soup: Creamy, Umami-Packed Comfort in a Bowl.

Vegan Mushroom Soup: Creamy, Umami-Packed Comfort in a Bowl

When the weather calls for something cozy and comforting, this Vegan Mushroom Soup is the ultimate answer. Creamy, dreamy, and bursting with umami, this soup combines golden, crispy mushrooms with a velvety cashew base that’s pure magic. It’s vegan, easy to make, and perfect for pairing with a slice of fresh-baked bread. Whether you’re curling up for a quiet night in or serving it to impress, this soup is a bowl of warmth you’ll want to savor again and again. Let’s dive into this soul-warming recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Mushroom Soup

• Rich and creamy: The cashew base creates a luscious, dairy-free creaminess that’s next-level delicious.

• Umami explosion: Sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and thyme bring deep, savory flavors to every spoonful.

• Vegan and wholesome: Packed with plant-based goodness, it’s as nourishing as it is indulgent.

• Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh produce, it’s easy to whip up any night of the week.

• Perfect for dipping: Pair it with crusty bread or your favorite vegan rolls for the ultimate cozy meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 4–6)

• 1 cup raw cashews

• 4 tbsp olive oil, divided

• 16 oz mushrooms (cremini, button, or a mix), sliced

• ¼ cup white wine (optional, for deglazing)

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)

• ¼ tsp black pepper (or to taste)

• Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)

• Crusty bread, for serving (optional but highly recommended!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Soften the cashews: Place 1 cup of raw cashews in a bowl and cover with very hot water. Let them soak while you prep the other ingredients to ensure a smooth, creamy blend.

2. Cook the mushrooms: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden and crispy. Deglaze the pan with ¼ cup white wine, scraping up all the flavorful browned bits. Once the wine evaporates, transfer the mushrooms to a plate and set aside.

3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, add 2 more tbsp olive oil. Toss in the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and thyme. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent and the aroma is irresistible.

4. Blend the base: Pour 4 cups of vegetable broth into the pot and stir to combine. Ladle about half of the mixture into a blender. Drain the soaked cashews and add them to the blender. Blend until smooth and creamy, leaving the blender lid slightly ajar to release steam if the mixture is hot. (Be careful blending hot liquids!)

5. Simmer and season: Pour the creamy cashew blend back into the pot with the reserved mushrooms. Add ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper, then let the soup simmer gently for 15 minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

6. Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired, and serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping. Cozy perfection achieved!

Tips for the Perfect Soup

• Mushroom variety: Cremini or button mushrooms work great, but try adding shiitake or oyster mushrooms for extra umami depth.

• No wine? No problem: Skip the white wine and deglaze with a splash of vegetable broth or water instead.

• Smooth blending: For an extra-smooth texture, blend the entire soup (with mushrooms) or use an immersion blender directly in the pot.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to maintain creaminess. This soup also freezes well for up to a month.

• Make it heartier: Add cooked lentils, chickpeas, or diced potatoes for a more filling meal.

Why This Soup is a Must-Try

This Vegan Mushroom Soup is the ultimate cozy dish, blending the earthy richness of mushrooms with the silky, cashew-based creaminess that makes every bite feel indulgent. It’s vegan, wholesome, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for chilly nights or when you just need a hug in a bowl. The cashew base is a game-changer, delivering a dairy-free creaminess that rivals any traditional soup. Pair it with fresh-baked bread, and you’re in for a treat!So, grab your pot and let’s make this creamy, umami-packed soup! What’s your favorite way to enjoy a cozy bowl of soup—solo or with a sidekick like bread or crackers? Share your thoughts and any tweaks you make on Pinterest! and check out the Ultimate Plant-Based Cookbook below!