Imagine a creamy, hearty soup that instantly transports you to a cozy kitchen on a chilly evening. This Mushroom and Potato Chowder is not just a recipe; it's a culinary embrace that combines earthy mushrooms, tender potatoes, and a velvety broth that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this American-style chowder promises to be your new comfort food obsession that's surprisingly simple to prepare.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 500g mushrooms, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chives for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Introduce sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for 6-8 minutes, allowing them to release their moisture and begin to brown, which will enhance their deep, earthy flavor.
- Add diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the mushrooms and onions, ensuring even distribution and coating with the existing oils.
- Pour in vegetable broth, covering the vegetables completely. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Using a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon, partially mash some of the potatoes to help thicken the chowder's consistency.
- Stir in milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
- Remove from heat and let the chowder rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to settle.
- Ladle into serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped chives. Serve hot with crusty bread if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Mushrooms: Opt for a mix of mushroom varieties like cremini, shiitake, or button mushrooms to add depth of flavor.
- Don't Rush the Sautéing: Take your time caramelizing the onions and mushrooms. This step builds a rich, complex base for your chowder.
- Potato Tip: Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold, which help naturally thicken the chowder when partially mashed.
- Milk Matters: For a richer chowder, substitute half-and-half for milk, or use a combination of heavy cream and milk.
- Season Gradually: Add salt and pepper in stages, tasting as you go to achieve the perfect balance.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh chives add a pop of color and a subtle onion-like freshness. Don't skip this final touch!
- Make Ahead: This chowder tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance.
- Texture Trick: For an extra creamy consistency, blend a small portion of the chowder and mix it back in.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 5mg
