A deeply savory, restaurant-worthy mushroom soup at 297 calories. Rich enough to be a meal, elegant enough to impress.
Shiitake mushrooms have an intensity that ordinary mushrooms simply cannot match. This Cream of Shiitake Mushroom Soup leans into that depth fully, building a broth from both chicken and beef stock, toasted sesame seeds, and a generous pour of double cream for a result that is silky, complex, and genuinely satisfying. At 297 calories and 5 WW Classic Points per serving, it earns its place as a special occasion bowl or a very comforting solo dinner.
Recipe Info
Serves: 8 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Calories per serving: ~297
Nutrition per Serving (Estimated)
Protein: 3g | Fat: 28.4g | Carbohydrates: 5g | Fiber: 0.9g
WW Classic Points: Approximately 5 points per serving. Note: This estimate is based on the legacy WW points system and is provided as a general reference only.
Ingredients
- 225g / 8oz shiitake mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 1/2 medium onion, peeled and finely chopped
- 120g / 4.5oz butter, divided
- 750ml / 1.25 pints chicken stock
- 750ml / 1.25 pints beef stock
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted and crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 250ml / 8 fl oz double cream
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives, to garnish
Instructions
- Saute the mushrooms and onion. Melt half the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms and chopped onion and saute for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
- Build the stock base. Combine the chicken and beef stocks in a large bowl or jug, then add the mushroom and onion mixture to the combined stock.
- Add the butter and sesame seeds. Return the mixture to the saucepan. Add the crushed toasted sesame seeds and the remaining butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the butter has fully melted and incorporated.
- Simmer and finish with cream. Add the salt and cook over low heat for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly, then stir in the double cream until well blended. Do not allow the soup to boil after adding the cream.
- Serve and garnish. Ladle into warmed bowls and garnish with freshly chopped chives. The soup may be served warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a slice of toasted crusty sourdough for a complete and satisfying meal
- Pair with a light green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil
- Offer as an elegant first course at a dinner party before a lean protein main
- Finish each bowl with a few extra chives and a light drizzle of sesame oil for added aroma
- Serve alongside roasted asparagus or steamed broccolini for a balanced dinner
Tips and Variations
- Fresh shiitake mushrooms deliver the best flavor here. If unavailable, a mix of cremini and dried shiitake (rehydrated) works well as a substitute.
- Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully, until golden and fragrant before crushing.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or light cream for the double cream, which reduces the fat content while keeping the soup creamy.
- This soup is intentionally rich, making it well suited to smaller serving portions as a starter rather than a full bowl.
- The soup reheats gently but should never be boiled after the cream has been added, as this can cause the cream to separate.
Why This Recipe Works
Shiitake mushrooms are one of the most flavorful, low-calorie ingredients in any kitchen. They bring a deep, meaty umami quality that makes this soup taste far more indulgent than its ingredient list suggests. The combination of two stocks creates a layered base that no single stock could achieve on its own, and the toasted sesame seeds add a subtle nuttiness that quietly elevates every spoonful. The cream brings everything together into a velvety finish that feels like a real treat.
Storage and Reheating
Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat very gently over low heat, stirring frequently. Do not boil. This soup does not freeze well due to the cream content, which can separate on thawing.
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is estimated and may vary based on specific ingredients, brands, and portion sizes used. This recipe is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dietary or medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for guidance tailored to your individual needs.
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