Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Hungarian Mushroom Soup is a creamy, earthy soup with a rich, savory flavor that comes from paprika and sour cream. This comforting dish is perfect for chilly days. Here’s a traditional recipe:

Table of Contents

Ingredients

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large onion, finely chopped

1 lb (450g) mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or a mix)
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon sweet Hungarian paprika
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup whole milk

1 cup sour cream
2 teaspoons dried dill
2 teaspoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the onions and sauté for 5-6 minutes, until softened and translucent.
Add the mushrooms and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and are lightly browned.

2. Build the Base:

Stir in the garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour and paprika over the mushrooms, stirring well to coat evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

3. Add the Liquid:

Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Stir in the milk, soy sauce, and dill. Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Finish the Soup:

Lower the heat to prevent curdling and whisk in the sour cream. Stir until fully incorporated and smooth.
Add the lemon juice, if using, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve:

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or a slice of rye.

Tips:

For an extra creamy soup: Use heavy cream in place of milk.
For a smoky twist: Add a pinch of smoked paprika along with the sweet paprika.

Vegetarian-friendly: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Thicker soup: Simmer longer or add an extra tablespoon of flour when sautéing.

This Hungarian Mushroom Soup is earthy, tangy, and deeply comforting—a perfect bowl of warmth on a cold day. 🍄✨