When it comes to soul-warming dishes, Hungarian Mushroom Soup is in a league of its own. With its velvety texture, earthy mushroom base, and the unmistakable kick of Hungarian paprika, this soup is the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or enjoy a cozy bowl on a chilly evening, this recipe has you covered.

In this guide, you’ll discover how to make authentic Hungarian Mushroom Soup, learn tips for perfecting the recipe, and explore variations to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love Hungarian Mushroom Soup

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of sour cream and milk creates a luscious texture that’s hard to resist.
• Flavorful and Aromatic: With the unique spice of Hungarian paprika and the herbaceous notes of dill, every bite is a sensory delight.
• Easy to Prepare: Despite its complex flavors, this soup comes together in less than an hour.
• Versatile: Customize the recipe to fit dietary preferences or add your personal twist.

Ingredients for Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Here’s everything you need to create this comforting dish:

Main Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: For sautéing and adding richness.
• 1 yellow onion, chopped: Provides a sweet, savory base.
• 2 lbs. cremini or white button mushrooms, sliced: The star of the dish, offering earthy and meaty flavors.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (or 2 teaspoons dried dill): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
• 1 tablespoon Hungarian sweet paprika: The defining spice of this soup, delivering a mild, smoky sweetness.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: For thickening the soup.
• 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth): The base liquid for the soup.
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce: Enhances the umami flavor.
• 1 cup milk (preferably whole milk at room temperature): Adds creaminess to the soup.
• ½ cup sour cream (plus more for garnish): Creates the signature tangy flavor.
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice: Balances the richness with a hint of acidity.

Seasonings and Garnishes:

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste.
• Chopped fresh Italian parsley: For garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Base Ingredients

1. In a Dutch oven or soup pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and sliced mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent, and the mushrooms are browned (about 8–10 minutes).

2. Add Spices and Thickener

1. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the chopped dill and Hungarian paprika. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to release the spices’ aromas.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and mushroom mixture. Stir well and cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

3. Build the Soup Bas

1. Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while stirring to prevent lumps.
2. Add the soy sauce and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens slightly.

4. Finish with Creamy Ingredients

1. Remove the pot from heat and whisk in the milk, sour cream, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
2. Season the soup with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

5. Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and an optional dollop of sour cream.
2. Serve immediately with crusty bread or a fresh green salad.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	240
Protein	7g
Fat	16g
Carbohydrates	17g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	380mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Tips for Making the Perfect Hungarian Mushroom Soup

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms and dill elevate the flavor and texture of the soup.
2. Don’t Skip the Paprika: Hungarian sweet paprika is key to the authentic taste. Look for high-quality paprika for the best results.
3. Avoid Curdling: Make sure the milk and sour cream are at room temperature before adding them to the hot soup. Stir them in gradually.
4. Blend for Texture: For a smoother consistency, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the milk and sour cream.
5. Balance the Flavors: Adjust the seasoning and acidity with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Serving Suggestions

• With Bread: Pair with crusty bread, garlic knots, or fresh baguette for dipping.
• Side Salad: Serve alongside a light salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the creaminess.
• Over Rice or Noodles: For a heartier meal, ladle the soup over cooked rice or egg noodles.

Variations to Try

1. Vegan Hungarian Mushroom Soup

• Replace the butter with olive oil or vegan margarine.
• Use plant-based milk and dairy-free sour cream.
• Opt for vegetable broth to keep it fully vegan.

2. Spicy Version

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
• Use hot paprika instead of sweet paprika.

3. Protein Boost

• Stir in cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu cubes for added protein.

4. Gluten-Free Option

• Substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the soup.

FAQs About Hungarian Mushroom Soup

1. What is Hungarian paprika?

Hungarian paprika is a sweet, mild spice with a slightly smoky flavor. It’s essential for authentic Hungarian dishes and can be found in most grocery stores.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! Hungarian Mushroom Soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed.

3. Can I freeze Hungarian Mushroom Soup?

While the soup can be frozen, the texture of the dairy ingredients may change slightly upon reheating. For best results, freeze the soup before adding the milk and sour cream, then stir them in after reheating.

4. What mushrooms work best for this soup?

Cremini mushrooms are ideal for their rich flavor, but white button mushrooms or a mix of wild mushrooms also work well.

5. How can I thicken the soup without flour?

Blend part of the soup or add a slurry made with cornstarch and water for a gluten-free thickener.

6. What’s a good substitute for dill?

If you don’t have dill, fresh parsley or tarragon can provide a similar herbaceous flavor.

Conclusion: A Bowl of Comfort and Flavor

Hungarian Mushroom Soup is a dish that brings comfort, warmth, and a burst of flavor to your table. Its creamy texture, savory mushrooms, and aromatic spices make it a standout choice for cozy nights or when you’re craving something indulgent yet wholesome. Whether you enjoy it as a starter or a main course, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Ready to bring the flavors of Hungary to your kitchen? Gather your ingredients and start cooking today!

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