Wild Mushroom Caramelized Onion and Kale Soup Recipe
A hearty and flavorful Wild Mushroom Caramelized Onion and Kale Soup featuring deeply caramelized onions, a mix of shiitake and baby bella mushrooms, nutrient-rich kale, and a creamy touch of coconut milk. This comforting soup combines umami-rich ingredients with a creamy broth, perfect for a nourishing meal any time of year.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 large sweet onion, sliced 1/2 inch thick
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 cups whole shiitake mushrooms, stems removed (about 6 ounces)
- 2 cups baby bella or cremini mushrooms, sliced (about 6 ounces)
- 2 cups loosely chopped kale leaves, stems removed (about 4 ounces)
Liquids & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt or pink salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 4 cups organic chicken broth or vegetable broth, gluten-free
- 1/2 cup coconut milk or coconut cream
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large 4-6 quart pot over medium heat. Add the sliced sweet onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown and caramelized, about 25-30 minutes. Don’t rush this step to develop the best flavor.
- Sauté Garlic and Season: Stir in the finely chopped garlic, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, allowing the garlic to release its aroma without burning.
- Cook the Mushrooms: Add the shiitake mushrooms and sliced baby bella or cremini mushrooms to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms soften and start to turn golden brown.
- Add Broth and Kale, Simmer: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and stir well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the chopped kale leaves. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and kale to soften.
- Finish with Coconut Milk: Uncover the pot and stir in the coconut milk or coconut cream. Heat through for 2-3 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed before serving.
Notes
- True caramelized onions require slow cooking over 25-30 minutes; rushing this compromises flavor.
- Add kale late in the cooking process to maintain its vibrant color and texture.
- Lacinato kale offers a more tender texture but spinach can be used as a substitute.
- Clean mushrooms by wiping with a damp cloth instead of rinsing to avoid waterlogging.
- Store soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Keywords: wild mushroom soup, caramelized onion soup, kale soup, healthy mushroom soup, gluten free soup, creamy vegetable soup, vegan alternative soup
