Mushroom and Rice Soup

I first made this mushroom and rice soup in autumn, and it seems to suit the season perfectly. The idea was to cook something nourishing and yummy to warm me up after being out in the cold. Adding rice bulks it out, making for a more substantial and satisfying main course.

Adding double cream also ensures a luxurious texture. The flavour is really savoury, and ideal when you crave an umami hit. Or like me, just can’t get enough mushrooms.

This is cream of mushroom soup and rice all in one comforting bowlful. It’s super cheap, simple, and speedy to make. Unless you’re one of the anti-fungi league, what’s not to love?

This rice and mushroom soup serves 4

Mushroom and Rice Soup Ingredients

• Olive oil, for frying
• Shallots, 2 to 4 (depending on size), chopped finely
• Carrot, 1, chopped finely
• Mushrooms, 2 packs (about 650g)
• Chicken or vegetable stock pot or cube, 1
• Cornflour, 2 tbsp
• Brown rice (microwavable), 1 pouch
• Double cream, 100ml
• Lemon juice, a squeeze
• Black pepper, 1/2 tsp

Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Chopping board
• Large saucepan
• Wooden spatula

How to Make Rice and Mushroom Soup

• Heat a splash of oil in a large saucepan or stock pot while you chop the shallots and peeled carrot finely.
• Add the chopped veg to the pan and stir. Cook for a few minutes, stirring often, while you chop the mushrooms into small pieces.
• Add the mushrooms to the pan, and cook until they start to brown.
• Next, add around 1.5 pints (850ml) water to the pan, plus the stock pot or cube. Stir well.
• Make up a paste with the cornflour and a dash of cold water, then stir this into the soup to thicken it.
• Microwave the pouch of rice as per pack instructions, and stir into the soup. Simmer for around 10 minutes.
• Add the double cream, lemon juice, and some black pepper, then heat through thoroughly for a few minutes before serving.

Serve the soup with crusty, buttered bread or rolls.

Related recipes:

• Mushroom curry
• Mushroom ragu
• Creamy mushroom pasta
• Slow cooker Northumbrian broth
• Best Saturday night dinner ideas