Description
This Creamy Mushroom & Pearl Couscous Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy meal. Featuring tender mushrooms and pearl couscous simmered in a rich, creamy broth with fresh herbs, this soup balances earthiness and creaminess beautifully. It’s a delightful option for vegetarians seeking a hearty, satisfying soup that can be easily prepared in just over half an hour.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix), sliced
- 1/2 cup pearl couscous
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
Cream & Herbs
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Seasoning & Other
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.
- Toast Pearl Couscous: Stir in the pearl couscous with the mushroom mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the couscous to toast slightly to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the couscous is tender.
- Incorporate Cream and Herbs: Stir in the heavy cream, fresh thyme, and butter if using. Simmer gently for 3-5 minutes to combine the flavors and warm through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or chicken broth for a richer flavor.
- Add a splash of white wine when sautéing mushrooms for extra depth.
- Pearl couscous can be replaced with regular couscous or small pasta shapes if preferred.
- Butter is optional but recommended for added richness and smooth texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid curdling the cream.
