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This creamy mushroom and pearl couscous soup is the dish I crave when I want something comforting but a little special. With tender baby bella mushrooms, chewy pearl couscous, and a silky, savory broth, this soup is a one-pot wonder that feels just right for chilly evenings or when you simply want to enjoy a cozy dinner at home.
I made this for my sister when she visited last fall and she still talks about the combination of earthy mushrooms and creamy couscous. The leftovers taste even better the next day.
Ingredients
- Butter: Adds richness and helps vegetables cook evenly always choose unsalted for better control
- Shallot: Sweeter than onion gives delicate flavor look for firm and unblemished ones
- Garlic: Essential for aroma and depth use fresh for best results
- Baby bella mushrooms: They offer a deep savory taste and a hearty texture fresh and firm mushrooms make a difference
- Beef broth: Gives body and rich flavor use low sodium so you can adjust saltiness
- White wine: Brightens the soup and adds acidity opt for a dry variety you would drink
- Worcestershire sauce: Packs umami and a hint of complexity choose a high quality brand
- Salt: Essential for balancing flavors always season to your taste
- Dried dill: Brings a fresh herby note make sure it smells fragrant not stale
- Paprika: Adds mild warmth and color choose Spanish smoked for bonus depth
- Dried thyme: Earthy and classic in soups always use dried for slow cooked recipes
- Pearl couscous: Adds chewiness and heartiness larger than regular couscous find it in most grocery stores or online
- Half and half: Makes everything creamy and luscious dairy freshness matters
- Sour cream: Adds tang and richness dollop at the end for true comfort
- Crusty bread: Ideal for dunking make sure it is fresh and has a good crispy crust
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat making sure it does not brown Add the sliced baby bella mushrooms minced shallot and minced garlic Stir and cook for 2 minutes The aromatics will become fragrant and start to soften which builds your flavor base for the soup
- Build the Broth and Season:
- Sprinkle the dried dill dried thyme and paprika into the pot and stir well Add the Worcestershire sauce white wine and beef broth While stirring scrape the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits Taste and add salt as needed Bring the mixture up to a boil
- Add the Couscous and Simmer:
- Pour the pearl couscous into the boiling soup and give it a good stir Place a lid on the pot reduce heat to medium and let the soup gently simmer for 20 minutes Stir once or twice so nothing sticks to the bottom
- Finish with Cream and Serve:
- Once couscous is soft and chewy take the pot off the heat Stir in half and half for that creamy finish Taste and adjust salt if needed Ladle the soup into bowls and add a dollop of sour cream on top Serve with thick slices of crusty bread to truly enjoy every bite
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My favorite thing about this soup is how dried dill wakes up the mushrooms and brightens each spoonful I remember making a double batch once for a movie night and every bowl was scraped clean.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days When reheating add a splash of broth or water to loosen the texture as it thickens in the fridge If you want to freeze it do so before adding half and half then stir in the cream after reheating for best results.
Ingredient Substitutions
Vegetarian version works well using a rich vegetable broth and plant based Worcestershire sauce You can substitute leeks for shallots for a sweeter note If you have no pearl couscous try small pasta like orzo just start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup as a main course with a big green salad and crusty bread It also makes a great starter for a fall dinner party Top each bowl with extra fresh herbs or a drizzle of truffle oil for an elegant touch My family loves it with a side of garlic butter toast.
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The first cold night every autumn I simmer this soup and remember how a warm bowl at the table can make friends and family feel at home All you need is a spoon and maybe a good story.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of mushroom?
Yes, white button mushrooms or cremini work well if baby bella aren't available. Mix varieties for deeper flavor.
- → Is there a substitute for pearl couscous?
Small pasta shapes, such as orzo, can replace pearl couscous. Adjust cooking time as needed.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Swap beef broth with vegetable broth for a satisfying meat-free option without losing depth.
- → What pairs well alongside this soup?
Crusty bread complements the creamy texture and helps soak up the flavorful broth.
- → How can I store leftovers?
Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
It's best enjoyed fresh, as the cream and couscous may change texture when frozen, but it's still safe to freeze if needed.