Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Here’s a rich, creamy, and deeply flavorful recipe for Hungarian Mushroom Soup — a comforting dish with Eastern European flair, thanks to paprika, dill, and sour cream. It’s a vegetarian-friendly soup that’s earthy, savory, and perfect for chilly nights.

🍄 Hungarian Mushroom Soup

🍽️ Serves: 4–6

🕐 Total Time: ~45 minutes

🧂 Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for extra richness)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 lb (450 g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini, button, or mixed)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (adds umami)

• 1 tablespoon paprika (Hungarian sweet paprika preferred)

• 1 teaspoon dried dill (or 1 tbsp fresh)

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

• 1/2 cup milk (or plant-based milk)

• 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)

• 2 teaspoons lemon juice or vinegar (for brightness)

• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

• Chopped fresh parsley or dill, for garnish

🍳 Instructions:

1. Sauté the base:
   In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter (and olive oil if using). Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Cook the mushrooms:
   Add sliced mushrooms and a pinch of salt. Sauté until they release their moisture and begin to brown, ~10–12 minutes.

3. Add seasoning:
   Stir in garlic, soy sauce, paprika, and dill. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Make a roux:
   Sprinkle in flour and stir to coat the mushrooms evenly. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

5. Add liquids:
   Gradually pour in the broth while stirring. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken.

6. Make it creamy:
   Lower the heat. Stir in milk and sour cream. Simmer gently for another 5 minutes — do not boil after adding dairy.

7. Balance flavors:
   Add lemon juice or vinegar to brighten the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Serve:
   Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or fresh dill. Serve with crusty bread.

🍞 Serving Ideas:

• Pair with buttered rye or sourdough bread

• Add cooked egg noodles for a heartier meal

• Serve with a side salad of greens with lemon vinaigrette