Wild Mushroom, Caramelized Onion & Kale Soup
This Wild Mushroom, Caramelized Onion & Kale Soup is a rich, earthy, and nourishing dish perfect for cozy evenings. The deep umami flavors of wild mushrooms pair beautifully with sweet caramelized onions, while kale adds a boost of nutrients and texture. This comforting soup is both hearty and wholesome, making it a great option for a light meal or a flavorful starter.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
2 yellow onions, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 lb wild mushrooms (shiitake, oyster, or cremini), sliced
4 cups kale, stems removed, chopped
4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk)
1 tsp dried thyme
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Juice of ½ lemon (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Caramelize the Onions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onions & a pinch of salt. Cook 15-20 min until golden & caramelized. Remove & set aside.
Sauté Mushrooms & Garlic
Add more oil if needed.
Cook mushrooms for 7-10 min until browned.
Stir in garlic, cook 1-2 min until fragrant.
Add Kale & Seasonings
Stir in kale, cook 2-3 min until wilted.
Add thyme, smoked paprika, salt & pepper.
Build the Soup Base
Pour in broth & simmer 10-15 min to blend flavors.
Add Cream & Onions
Stir in cream (or coconut milk) & caramelized onions.
Adjust seasoning & add lemon juice for brightness.
Serve & Enjoy
Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.
Tips & Tricks for Wild Mushroom, Caramelized Onion & Kale Soup
Choose a Variety of Mushrooms – A mix of cremini, shiitake, oyster, or porcini mushrooms adds depth of flavor. Dried mushrooms can also be used for extra umami—just soak them in hot water and use the liquid in the soup.
Caramelize Onions Slowly – Cook onions over low heat for at least 15-20 minutes until golden brown. This enhances their natural sweetness.
Deglaze for Extra Flavor – Use a splash of white wine, balsamic vinegar, or sherry to scrape up the browned bits from the pan.
Boost Creaminess – Blend a portion of the soup for a thicker texture or add a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream.
Season Well – Fresh thyme, rosemary, or a bay leaf add depth. A final squeeze of lemon or a dash of balsamic vinegar brightens the flavors.
Use Sturdy Kale – Lacinato (dinosaur) kale holds up well in soups, but curly kale works too. Remove the stems for a more tender bite.
Make it Heartier – Add cooked lentils, quinoa, or a handful of white beans for extra protein and fiber.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 180-220
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: Varies based on broth and seasoning