Name: Hungarian Mushroom Soup: 1 Amazing Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Hungarian
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons butter; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1 pound cremini mushrooms, sliced; 2 tablespoons flour; 1 tablespoon Hungarian paprika; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 cup milk; 1 tablespoon Tamari sauce; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt, pepper, and ground chili pepper to taste

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Hungarian mushroom soup has a way of transporting me straight to my grandmother’s kitchen, enveloped in the most comforting aromas. I remember being a little girl, peering over the counter as she stirred a pot of creamy, golden goodness, the scent of toasted paprika and earthy mushrooms filling our home. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a hug in a bowl. Making this Hungarian mushroom soup recipe feels like bringing a piece of that cherished tradition into my own home. It’s remarkably easy to whip up, and the result is a rich, velvety bowl that tastes like it simmered for hours. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Incredibly rich and savory flavor from browned mushrooms and toasted paprika.
Perfectly creamy texture that’s pure comfort in every spoonful.
Ready in under an hour, making it a fantastic weeknight meal.
This easy Hungarian mushroom soup is surprisingly budget-friendly, using simple pantry staples.
Packed with earthy mushrooms and fresh herbs for a satisfying, wholesome meal.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Making this easy Hungarian mushroom soup is a rewarding culinary experience.
A delightful starter for holiday meals or a cozy main course.

Ingredients for Authentic Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to making a truly delicious Hungarian mushroom soup with sour cream. The foundation of this creamy soup starts with simple, quality components:

4 tablespoons butter – This is key for sautéing and building that rich base.
1 medium onion, finely chopped – Caramelizing this onion adds a wonderful sweetness.
1 pound cremini mushrooms, sliced – These earthy mushrooms are the star, and browning them well is crucial for flavor.
2 tablespoons flour – This helps to thicken the soup, creating that signature creamy texture.
1 tablespoon Hungarian paprika – The soul of the soup! Use good quality paprika for that authentic taste.
3 cups chicken broth – Provides a savory liquid base.
1 cup milk – Adds creaminess without being too heavy.
1 tablespoon Tamari sauce – For a boost of umami and depth.
1/2 cup sour cream – Stirred in at the end, this makes it wonderfully tangy and rich.
1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens all the flavors.
3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – For freshness and a pop of green.
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped – An essential herb in traditional Hungarian cooking.
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped – Adds a subtle earthy note.
Salt, pepper, and ground chili pepper to taste – To season perfectly.

How to Make Hungarian Mushroom Soup

This recipe for traditional Hungarian mushroom soup is surprisingly straightforward and yields incredible results, even on a busy weeknight. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a bowl of pure comfort ready in no time!

Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, melt 4 tablespoons butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Step 2: Add the 1 medium onion, finely chopped, and cook until it’s soft and translucent, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. You’ll start to smell its sweetness.
Step 3: Toss in the 1 pound cremini mushrooms, sliced. Sauté them for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and turn a beautiful golden brown. Don’t rush this step; well-browned mushrooms are key to a flavorful traditional Hungarian mushroom soup.
Step 4: Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons flour and 1 tablespoon Hungarian paprika over the mushroom and onion mixture. Stir everything together thoroughly, coating all the ingredients. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to toast the paprika and cook out the raw flour taste.
Step 5: Gradually pour in the 3 cups chicken broth while continuously stirring to prevent any lumps from forming.
Step 6: Stir in the 1 cup milk and 1 tablespoon Tamari sauce. Mix well to combine all the elements.
Step 7: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom. This is where the magic of this Hungarian mushroom soup recipe really starts to happen.

Hungarian Mushroom Soup: 1 Amazing Recipe - Hungarian Mushroom Soup - additional detail

Step 8: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped, and 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped. Season generously with salt, pepper, and ground chili pepper to your taste. Mix everything until the soup is smooth and beautifully combined. Letting the soup rest off the heat before adding the dairy helps make it extra creamy.
Step 9: Let the soup rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle. Garnish with a little extra fresh dill or parsley if you like. Enjoy your delicious bowl of authentic Hungarian goodness!

Pro Tips for the Best Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Achieving that perfect, restaurant-quality bowl of Hungarian mushroom soup is all about a few key techniques. Here are my top tips to make your soup truly exceptional:

Don’t crowd the mushrooms when sautéing; cook them in batches if necessary. This ensures they brown properly instead of steaming, which is crucial for developing deep flavor in your creamy Hungarian mushroom soup.
Always use good quality Hungarian paprika. It makes a world of difference in both color and taste compared to regular paprika.
The final addition of sour cream and lemon juice off the heat is vital. It keeps the soup’s texture smooth and prevents the dairy from separating.
Taste and adjust seasoning at the very end. The saltiness can change as the soup simmers, so a final check ensures perfection.

What’s the secret to perfect Hungarian mushroom soup?

The real secret to a truly perfect and savory mushroom soup Hungarian style lies in browning the mushrooms deeply and using high-quality Hungarian paprika. Caramelizing the onions and toasting the paprika also build layers of flavor. For more culinary inspiration, check out these latest recipes.

Can I make Hungarian mushroom soup ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the soup base (up to step 7) a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. Then, gently reheat it, remove from heat, and stir in the sour cream, lemon juice, and fresh herbs just before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Hungarian mushroom soup?

The most common mistake is not browning the mushrooms enough, which leads to a bland soup. Another pitfall is boiling the soup after adding the sour cream, which can cause it to curdle. Always add dairy off the heat. For more tips on dairy, you might find this guide on making homemade mayonnaise helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Hungarian Mushroom Soup

This hearty soup is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. It’s perfect as a starter or a light main course, and its rich flavor makes it feel quite special.

For a truly traditional experience, serve this Hungarian mushroom soup with crusty bread or small dumplings. The bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious broth.
If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, consider pairing it with a light green salad or some simple roasted vegetables. It also makes a fantastic accompaniment to a dish like chicken paprikash.
For those who love the heartiness of a stew, you might find yourself enjoying this as a delicious alternative to a classic goulash soup mushroom. It offers a similar comforting warmth and depth of flavor, but with a distinct creamy profile.

Nutrition Facts for Hungarian Mushroom Soup

This nourishing bowl of Hungarian mushroom soup offers a delightful balance of flavor and wholesome ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving:

Calories: 265 kcal
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Protein: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 17 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 1039 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For more information on nutritional guidelines, consult resources on healthy eating guidelines.

How to Store and Reheat Hungarian Mushroom Soup

This delicious Hungarian mushroom soup is perfect for making ahead, which is great for busy weeknights. Once the soup has cooled down completely, transfer it into airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. This makes it a fantastic option for a truly quick Hungarian mushroom soup meal whenever the craving strikes! If you’re looking for other quick meal ideas, try these easy ground beef and broccoli.

When you’re ready to enjoy your stored soup, reheating is simple. Gently warm it on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. Avoid boiling, especially if the sour cream is still in the soup, to maintain its creamy texture. If reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first, then follow the stovetop method. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. For a different kind of comfort food, check out this fiery chicken ramen recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hungarian Mushroom Soup

What is Hungarian mushroom soup?

Hungarian mushroom soup is a classic, comforting dish originating from Hungary. It’s known for its rich, creamy texture and earthy mushroom flavor, often enhanced by the distinct taste of Hungarian paprika, sour cream, and fresh herbs like dill and parsley. It’s a truly heartwarming soup.

Why is Hungarian mushroom soup popular?

Its popularity stems from its incredible flavor profile – it’s both savory and slightly tangy, with a wonderful creaminess that’s deeply satisfying. It’s also relatively easy to make, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or as an elegant starter for special occasions. The earthy notes of mushrooms combined with the unique warmth of paprika make it a beloved comfort food worldwide. For more popular dishes, explore our dinner recipes.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. For a vegan rendition, use olive oil instead of butter and opt for a dairy-free sour cream alternative (like cashew-based or oat-based cream) and unsweetened plant-based milk. The flavor remains wonderfully rich and satisfying.

How do I make the soup extra creamy?

The key to an extra creamy texture is ensuring you don’t boil the soup after adding the sour cream and milk. Whisking a ladleful of the hot soup into the sour cream before adding it back to the pot helps temper it and prevent curdling. Using whole milk and a good amount of sour cream will also contribute to a luxurious creaminess. If you enjoy creamy dishes, you might like this creamy cucumber salad.

Variations of Hungarian Mushroom Soup You Can Try

While this classic recipe is fantastic on its own, there are several ways to put your own spin on this beloved dish. Experimenting with these variations can offer new flavors and textures to your Hungarian mushroom soup experience.

Krumplis Gombaleves (Potato Mushroom Soup): For an even heartier meal, try adding cubed potatoes along with the mushrooms. This variation turns the soup into a more substantial dish, perfect for a chilly evening. It’s a wonderful twist on the traditional krumplis gombaleves recipe.
Tejfölös Gombaleves (Sour Cream Mushroom Soup): If you love the tangy creaminess, you can amp it up! Increase the sour cream slightly or add a dollop more upon serving. This version really highlights the richness of a classic tejfölös gombaleves recipe.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch more ground chili pepper or a dash of cayenne pepper along with the paprika. You could also sauté a finely minced jalapeño with the onions for an extra layer of spice.
Mushroom Medley: Don’t be afraid to mix your mushrooms! While cremini are great, adding shiitake for earthiness or oyster mushrooms for a delicate texture can elevate the flavor profile of your Hungarian mushroom soup.