Hairy Bikers’ Mushroom Soup Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Mushroom Soup is a flavorful, creamy, and comforting dish that features the natural earthiness of mushrooms as the star ingredient. This soup is renowned for its rich and velvety texture, which is achieved through a careful combination of sautéed mushrooms, onions, garlic, and cream.

It is a delightful, hearty option for lunch or dinner, ideal for those who enjoy a simple yet indulgent meal. The Hairy Bikers, a popular British TV cooking duo, are known for their accessible and hearty recipes, and their mushroom soup recipe is a perfect example of their comforting and satisfying cooking style. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of the mushrooms to shine through, while the creamy base provides a smooth, luxurious mouthfeel.

Hairy Bikers’ Mushroom Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Hairy Bikers’ Mushroom Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Mushrooms: Typically, a mix of button and chestnut mushrooms is used. The button mushrooms provide a mild flavor, while chestnut mushrooms add a deeper, more robust taste.
• Butter: Used to sauté the vegetables, butter adds richness and depth to the soup’s flavor.
• Onion: A medium-sized onion, finely chopped, is sautéed to create a sweet base flavor that complements the earthiness of the mushrooms.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic, minced or chopped, gives the soup a fragrant kick.
• Vegetable Stock: This provides the soup with a savory, umami-rich base. You can use homemade stock or a good-quality store-bought version.
• Double Cream: For the creamy, luxurious texture that gives the soup its velvety finish.
• Thyme: Fresh thyme is often used for its herbal notes, though dried thyme can also be used if fresh isn’t available.
• Salt and Pepper: To season and enhance the overall flavor.

Optional garnishes:

• Fresh parsley
• A drizzle of cream
• Crusty bread or croutons for serving

Equipment Needed

To make Hairy Bikers’ Mushroom Soup, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven: A wide pot is ideal for sautéing the vegetables and cooking the soup.
• Sharp Knife: For chopping the mushrooms, onion, and garlic finely.
• Wooden Spoon: For stirring the vegetables as they cook and to avoid damaging your cookware.
• Blender or Immersion Blender: To blend the soup into a smooth, creamy consistency. A hand blender (immersion blender) can be used directly in the pot, making it a bit easier.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure the stock and cream accurately.
• Ladle: For serving the soup once it’s ready.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Hairy Bikers’ Mushroom Soup

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Start by washing and slicing the mushrooms. Finely chop the onion and garlic, and measure out your stock and cream.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In your large pot or Dutch oven, melt a generous knob of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent. Then, add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. Cook the Mushrooms:
   Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook them for about 8-10 minutes. The mushrooms will release their moisture and begin to shrink down. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. Allow them to cook until they have softened and browned slightly.

4. Add the Stock and Thyme:
   Pour in the vegetable stock and add a few sprigs of fresh thyme (or dried thyme). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Blend the Soup:
   Once the soup has simmered and the mushrooms are fully cooked, remove it from the heat. If you’re using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup directly in the pot until it reaches a smooth consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.

6. Add the Cream:
   After blending, return the soup to low heat and stir in the double cream. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine, and let the soup warm through for a few more minutes.

7. Serve:
   Ladle the soup into bowls. You can garnish it with a drizzle of cream, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or serve it alongside crusty bread or croutons for added texture.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• For a Richer Flavor: If you prefer a more intense mushroom flavor, try roasting the mushrooms in the oven before adding them to the soup. This will concentrate their flavors and deepen the taste of your soup.
• Make It Vegan: To make this soup vegan, simply substitute the butter with olive oil and replace the cream with coconut cream or another plant-based cream alternative.
• Texture Adjustments: If you like your soup to have a little more texture, you can blend only half of the soup and leave the rest with chunks of mushroom. This will give you a chunky-creamy hybrid texture.
• Add Some Spice: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to bring some warmth to the soup.
• Storage: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for storage.

Hairy Bikers’ Mushroom Soup is a perfect balance of creamy, comforting, and savory flavors, with the mushrooms shining through as the star of the dish. It’s a versatile recipe, suitable for various dietary preferences and easy to adjust to suit your personal tastes. Whether you’re a fan of the rich, velvety texture or prefer to add your own spin with some additional herbs or spices, this soup is a wonderful way to enjoy mushrooms in a delicious and heartwarming dish.

Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Mushroom Soup Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ classic mushroom soup recipe is the very definition of rustic comfort: earthy mushrooms, silky cream, garlic, onions, and a whisper of thyme – it’s a warm hug in a bowl.

But once you’ve mastered the original, why not take it further with a few creative flourishes?

These simple, bold twists will elevate your soup from familiar to unforgettable.

1. Roasted Garlic & Porcini Depth:
   Swap out regular garlic for slow-roasted cloves, squeezed into the soup just before blending. Then, add a handful of rehydrated porcini mushrooms and a splash of their soaking liquid – this adds a deep, woodsy umami that amplifies the soup’s character.

2. Add a Hint of Smoke:
   Incorporate smoked paprika or a touch of smoked sea salt for a sultry, campfire-kissed variation. Alternatively, fry a few lardons of smoked bacon until crisp and use the rendered fat in place of butter for sautéing your mushrooms.

3. Asian-Inspired Umami Boost:
   Give the soup an Eastern flair with a dash of soy sauce, a sprinkle of white miso, and a swirl of toasted sesame oil at the end. Garnish with sliced spring onions and a tangle of crispy fried shallots for crunch.

4. Nutty Elegance:
   Toast a handful of hazelnuts or walnuts, crush them lightly, and stir them into the soup right before serving. Their buttery crunch contrasts beautifully with the soup’s velvety texture.

5. Cream Swap:
   Try crème fraîche, coconut milk, or even cashew cream in place of traditional double cream. Each lends a unique richness – tangy, tropical, or subtly nutty.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Whether you’ve made a large batch for meal prep or simply have some leftovers from dinner, proper storage ensures that your mushroom soup remains just as delightful the next day – or even the next week.

1. Cool Before You Store:
   Let the soup cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Putting hot soup directly into the fridge can raise the overall temperature inside, risking bacterial growth. Speed up cooling by placing the pot in a sink filled with ice water and stirring occasionally.

2. Airtight Containers:
   Use BPA-free airtight containers, preferably glass, which won’t retain odor or stain. Leave about an inch of headspace to allow for expansion if you’re freezing it.

3. Label It:
   Include the date on the container. Mushroom soup will last up to 4-5 days in the fridge, and about 2-3 months in the freezer without any loss of quality.

4. Reheating Like a Pro:
   Always reheat only what you’ll consume – avoid reheating the whole batch multiple times. Use a saucepan over low heat and stir frequently to maintain that velvety consistency. If it thickens too much, stir in a little water, broth, or milk to revive the texture.

What To Eat With Hairy Bikers’ Mushroom Soup?

A bowl of mushroom soup is nourishing and satisfying on its own, but with the right accompaniments, it becomes a full sensory experience. Here’s how to round out your meal beautifully:

1. Crusty Bread or Savory Scones:
   Serve the soup with warm sourdough slices, garlic-rubbed ciabatta, or cheesy chive scones. The crunch and chew complement the creamy soup wonderfully.

2. Herby Croutons:
   Toss cubes of day-old bread in olive oil, garlic, and herbs like rosemary or thyme, then bake until golden. These little crunchy gems add texture and flavor to every bite.

3. A Tangy Side Salad:
   Balance the earthiness of the mushrooms with a sharp, refreshing salad – think arugula, fennel, apple, and a Dijon vinaigrette. The crispness and acidity cleanse the palate between spoonfuls.

4. A Slab of Cheese:
   Go for something strong and nutty like Comté, Taleggio, or a blue cheese. Even a smear of Boursin on crackers or toast is magical when paired with mushroom soup.

5. Poached Egg or a Drizzle of Truffle Oil:
   Top your soup with a soft poached egg for a luxurious twist, or a drizzle of truffle oil for a high-end restaurant feel. A bit of black pepper and a scatter of microgreens finishes the look.

Conclusion

The Hairy Bikers’ mushroom soup is a masterclass in cozy, earthy flavor – but it’s also a blank canvas just waiting for your creativity. With a few thoughtful tweaks and pairings, it can transform into a gourmet meal, a health-conscious staple, or an elegant dinner-party starter.

Whether you’re storing it for later or dressing it up with an unexpected topping, this soup is endlessly versatile. Embrace the earthy goodness, experiment with flavors, and above all – savor the simplicity of a truly good bowl of soup.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For The Hairy Bikers’ Mushroom Soup Recipe?

The Hairy Bikers’ mushroom soup recipe requires a selection of fresh mushrooms, usually including chestnut and button mushrooms, along with onion, garlic, butter, vegetable stock, double cream, and seasoning such as salt, pepper, and thyme. Some versions also include a splash of white wine for added depth of flavor.

How Long Does It Take To Prepare The Hairy Bikers’ Mushroom Soup?

The preparation time for the Hairy Bikers’ mushroom soup is typically around 10-15 minutes, including chopping the vegetables and preparing the stock. The cooking process usually takes about 20-30 minutes, so the total time for the recipe is roughly 35-45 minutes.

Can I Make The Hairy Bikers’ Mushroom Soup In Advance Or Freeze It?

Yes, the Hairy Bikers’ mushroom soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you wish to freeze it, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra stock or water to reach the desired consistency.