WOODLAND MUSHROOM AND THYME PURÉE
Woodland Mushroom And Thyme Purée is an earthy and velvety soup that captures the comforting essence of autumn and winter in a single bowl. With only five wholesome ingredients, it delivers deep umami flavour from the mushrooms and aromatic lift from fresh thyme. Simmered gently in broth and blended to a silky finish, this dish works beautifully as a minimalist standalone meal or a refined appetiser for dinner gatherings. Olive oil provides richness and helps to round out the savoury notes, while the thyme cuts through with a herbaceous clarity. This recipe is ideal for those seeking clean and plant-based nourishment that doesn’t compromise on taste. Enjoy it on its own with crusty sourdough or serve it alongside roasted vegetables or grains. Whether enjoyed as comfort food or part of a lighter course, it’s a soothing dish to savour slowly.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Appetisers
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
French Provençal
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Simmer, One-Pot Wonders
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Winter, Fall, Thanksgiving, New Year’s Day
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Quick & Easy, Low Fat, Healthy, Wheat / Gluten-Free
DISH TYPE
Soup / Stew
INGREDIENTS
There are the following ingredients for Woodland Mushroom And Thyme Purée:
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt and black pepper (optional)
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 52.2 kilocalories
- Fat: 4.7 grams
- Saturated Fat: 0.6 grams
- Carbohydrates: 2.1 grams
- Sugar: 0.8 grams
- Sodium: 508.8 milligrams
- Fibre: 0.7 grams
- Protein: 1.2 grams
- Vitamin D: 0.1 milligrams
- Calcium: 16.6 milligrams
- Iron: 0.4 milligrams
- Potassium: 137.1 milligrams
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for the preparation of Woodland Mushroom And Thyme Purée:
- Sauté The Mushrooms: In a small saucepan, heat 1 teaspoon olive oil over medium heat. Add ½ cup sliced mushrooms and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and lightly browned.
- Add The Thyme: Stir in 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (leaves stripped from stems) and sauté for another minute to release its aroma.
- Pour In The Broth: Add 1 cup vegetable broth, stirring once to combine with the mushrooms and thyme.
- Simmer Gently: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover partially and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, until the mushrooms are fully tender.
- Blend To Silky Smooth: Remove from heat and allow to rest for 1 minute. Use an immersion blender (or transfer carefully to a countertop blender) to purée until completely smooth.
- Season And Serve: Taste and season with a pinch of sea salt and black pepper if desired. Ladle into warmed bowls or cups and serve immediately.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
10 minutes
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for Woodland Mushroom And Thyme Purée:
- Choose Flavourful Mushrooms: Cremini or chestnut mushrooms offer deeper flavour than standard white button mushrooms.
- Blend Warm, Not Boiling: Let the mixture cool slightly before blending to avoid splatter or burning.
- Remove Thyme Sprigs: If using whole sprigs, remove the woody stems before blending.
- Use A High-Powered Blender: For an ultra-smooth texture, a high-speed blender works best.
- Don’t Overcrowd The Pan: Sauté mushrooms in a single layer to encourage browning and maximise flavour.
VARIATIONS
- Add Garlic: Sauté a minced garlic clove with the mushrooms for extra depth.
- Make It Creamy: Add 1 tablespoon unsweetened plant milk or oat cream during blending for a silkier texture.
- Include Onion: Sauté a tablespoon of finely chopped onion for a more savoury base.
- Boost Protein: Stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of cooked white beans before blending.
- Create A Drizzle: Top with a swirl of herbed olive oil or tahini before serving.
- Introduce Spice: Add a dash of smoked paprika or a tiny pinch of chilli flakes for gentle heat.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store cooled purée in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Allow to cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the hob over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if needed to adjust consistency.
- Meal Prep Ready: Make a batch and portion into small containers for light lunches, work snacks, or elegant appetisers.