First Step: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Clean the Mushrooms: Mushrooms are porous and can absorb moisture, so it’s important to clean them carefully. Use a damp cloth or paper towel to gently wipe the mushrooms clean. Slice them thinly to help them cook evenly and release their juices.
2. Chop the Onion and Garlic: Finely chop the onion into small pieces and mince the garlic. These two ingredients will form the base of the soup, contributing to its rich flavor.
3. Measure Your Broth and Cream: Having your vegetable broth and heavy cream ready will make the cooking process smoother. You can use chicken broth for a heartier flavor, or stick with vegetable broth to keep the dish vegetarian.
4. Gather Your Spices: Paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper are key in creating the signature flavor of Hungarian Mushroom Soup. Make sure they’re ready to go so you can easily add them during cooking.

Second Step: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat the Oil and Butter: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Let the butter melt and combine with the olive oil, which helps to prevent it from burning.
2. Cook the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring often to avoid burning.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot. Stir to coat the mushrooms in the butter and oil. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to release their moisture and become tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Third Step: Add the Seasoning and Flour

1. Sprinkle the Paprika and Thyme: Once the mushrooms are tender and browned, add the paprika and thyme. Stir well to coat the mushrooms and onions with the spices. The paprika will provide the soup with its signature flavor, and the thyme adds a subtle herbal note.
2. Add the Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture. Stir to evenly combine. The flour will help thicken the soup and give it a creamy consistency once the liquid is added.

Fourth Step: Add the Broth and Simmer

1. Pour in the Broth: Gradually add the vegetable or chicken broth while stirring. This helps to deglaze the pot and pick up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Stir constantly to avoid lumps from the flour.
2. Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. The soup should thicken slightly, and the flavors will meld together during this time.

Fifth Step: Add the Cream and Adjust the Flavor

1. Stir in the Cream: Once the soup has simmered, add the heavy cream. Stir well to incorporate the cream into the soup, creating a rich and velvety texture. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, so the cream blends with the other ingredients.
2. Season the Soup: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt, pepper, and extra paprika for a deeper flavor. If you want a bit more tanginess, you can also add a squeeze of lemon juice.
3. Simmer and Thicken: If the soup is too thin, continue to simmer for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid and thicken it up. If it’s too thick, you can add a little extra broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.

Sixth Step: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with Dill: Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped dill. The dill adds a fragrant, herbal note that complements the richness of the soup.
2. Add Sour Cream and Parsley: For an extra layer of flavor, add a dollop of sour cream to each bowl. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve with Bread: Serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread or some homemade croutons to help soak up the delicious broth.
4. Enjoy: Serve the soup hot and enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors of Hungarian Mushroom Soup.