Mustard soup might not be the first dish that comes to mind, but it’s a surprisingly comforting and flavorful option worth trying. This unique soup blends the tangy zest of mustard with creamy textures for a delightful balance that warms you from the inside out. Originating from European kitchens, mustard soup has been a humble yet beloved staple, perfect for chilly days or when you want something a little different.
We love how easy it is to make this recipe with simple ingredients that pack a punch. Whether you’re a mustard enthusiast or just curious to explore new flavors, this soup offers a delicious twist that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Let’s dive into creating a bowl of mustard soup that’s creamy, tangy, and utterly comforting.
Ingredients
To craft our mustard soup with the perfect balance of tangy warmth and creamy comfort, we rely on a few key ingredients. Below, you’ll find everything needed to get started, plus optional touches to elevate the dish.
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
(for sautéing and richness) - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
(builds a flavorful base) - 2 cloves garlic, minced
(adds depth and aroma) -
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
“The heart of our soup, delivering sharp, tangy character”
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
(for the savory liquid foundation) - 1 cup heavy cream
(for smooth, velvety texture) - 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
(adds body and slight earthiness) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
(to enhance all flavors)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons | Sautéing and richness |
| Yellow onion | 1 medium | Flavor base |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Depth and aroma |
| Dijon mustard | 3 tablespoons | Tangy flavor core |
| Chicken/vegetable broth | 4 cups | Soup liquid base |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Creamy texture |
| Potatoes | 2 medium | Adds body and texture |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Flavor enhancement |
Optional Garnishes
To enhance the mustard soup experience, we recommend these garnishes that add color, texture, and layers of flavor:
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley
Brightens the bowl visually and adds fresh herbal notes
- A swirl of extra heavy cream
Creates an inviting marbled effect and extra indulgence
- Croutons or toasted bread slices
Add satisfying crunch and contrast
- Shredded sharp cheddar or Gruyère cheese
Melts beautifully for added richness
- A sprinkle of smoked paprika or freshly ground black pepper
Equipment Needed
To make our Mustard Soup Recipe perfectly, gathering the right equipment is essential. Here’s what we use to ensure smooth preparation and a consistent result every time:
- Large Soup Pot
We choose a heavy-bottomed large soup pot or Dutch oven. This provides even heat distribution for cooking the onions, potatoes, and simmering the broth without burning.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
For stirring, a wooden spoon or heat-resistant silicone spatula helps us mix ingredients gently and scrape the bottom of the pot.
- Chef’s Knife
A sharp chef’s knife is crucial for chopping onions, garlic, and potatoes with precision and ease.
- Cutting Board
Use a sturdy cutting board to protect your surfaces and give you a stable area for chopping prep.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements of broth, cream, and mustard enhance the flavor balance. We rely on standard measuring cups and spoons for consistency.
- Immersion Blender or Regular Blender
To achieve the smooth, creamy texture characteristic of this mustard soup, an immersion blender is ideal. Alternatively, transfer soup batches to a regular blender in small amounts—just take care with hot liquids.
- Ladle
For serving, a large ladle lets us portion the soup efficiently into bowls.
- Soup Bowls and Spoons
Have bowls ready for serving with appropriate spoons to fully enjoy the creamy, tangy flavors.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Soup Pot | Even cooking and simmering |
| Wooden Spoon / Silicone Spatula | Gentle stirring and scraping |
| Chef’s Knife | Precise chopping of vegetables |
| Cutting Board | Stable chopping surface |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Immersion or Regular Blender | Creating smooth, creamy texture |
| Ladle | Easy serving |
| Soup Bowls & Spoons | Presentation and consumption |
Pro tip: Using an immersion blender directly in the pot minimizes cleanup and preserves the soup’s velvety consistency.
By having these tools ready, we streamline the cooking process and ensure our mustard soup achieves that perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Prep Work
Before we begin cooking the mustard soup, proper preparation ensures a smooth and efficient process. Let’s get everything ready so our flavors blend perfectly.
Preparing Vegetables
First, we’ll prep the vegetables which form the base of our soup. Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into 1-inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly and soften perfectly. Next, finely chop the yellow onion for a mild sweetness that balances the tang of mustard. Mince the garlic cloves to release their aromatic pungency that lifts the entire flavor profile.
Here’s how to prep our key vegetables:
| Vegetable | Prep Step | Size/Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Potatoes | Peel and dice | 1-inch cubes |
| Yellow Onion | Peel and finely chop | Small uniform pieces |
| Garlic Cloves | Peel and mince | Fine mince |
Measuring Ingredients
Accurate measurement plays a crucial role in achieving the optimal balance in our mustard soup. Use precise measuring cups and spoons for each ingredient to maintain consistency. For liquids like broth and heavy cream, measure at eye level for accuracy. For Dijon mustard, be exact with tablespoons to keep the flavor tangy yet balanced without overpowering the soup’s creaminess.
| Ingredient | Measurement Tool | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | Tablespoon | Softened |
| Yellow Onion | Finely chopped | About 1 cup |
| Garlic Cloves | Minced | 2 cloves |
| Dijon Mustard | Tablespoon | 2-3 tbsp depending on taste |
| Chicken/Vegetable Broth | Cups | 4 cups |
| Heavy Cream | Cups | 1 cup |
| Potatoes | Cups diced | About 2 cups |
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create a rich and flavorful Mustard Soup that balances creamy textures with the tangy zest of Dijon mustard.
Making the Soup Base
- Melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large soup pot over medium heat until it is fully melted and begins to foam.
- Add 1 finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and soft but not browned.
- Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add 3 cups peeled and diced potatoes (1-inch cubes) and stir well to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.
- Pour in 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth and increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the potatoes cook until tender—about 15 to 20 minutes.
Incorporating Mustard
- Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. (Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender.)
- Return the pureed soup to low heat.
- Gradually whisk in 1/4 cup Dijon mustard to ensure it integrates smoothly without clumping.
- Stir in 1 cup heavy cream to add richness and balance the tanginess of the mustard.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper and adjust as desired.
Simmering the Soup
- Continue to simmer the soup gently on low heat, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes to blend the flavors thoroughly.
- Check the consistency; if the soup is too thick, add additional broth 1/4 cup at a time until desired thickness is reached.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, enhancing with extra mustard or cream for your preferred flavor profile.
| Step | Ingredient/Action | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sauté onions and garlic | Butter, onion, garlic | 6 to 8 minutes | Stir to avoid browning |
| Cook potatoes in broth | Potatoes, broth | 15 to 20 minutes | Potatoes should be fork-tender |
| Blend soup | Immersion blender or blender | 5 minutes | Blend until fully smooth |
| Add mustard and cream | Dijon mustard, heavy cream | Immediate | Whisk to fully incorporate |
| Simmer final mixture | Fully combined soup | 10 minutes | Stir regularly |
Use these steps to master the perfect Mustard Soup base and build layers of flavor that delight the palate.
Serving Suggestions
To enjoy our mustard soup at its best, pairing it thoughtfully and storing leftovers properly ensures every bowl stays delicious and satisfying.
Recommended Pairings
Our mustard soup shines alongside hearty and complementary foods that balance its tangy creaminess. Consider these options for a complete meal experience:
- Crusty Bread or Baguette: The crisp exterior and soft interior soak up the soup’s rich texture perfectly.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Melted cheese with toasted bread provides a comforting contrast to the soup’s bright mustard flavor.
- Green Salad with Vinaigrette: A fresh, acidic salad with mixed greens cuts through the richness, keeping the meal balanced.
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus roasted with olive oil add earthiness and texture.
- Smoked Sausage or Ham: These savory proteins enhance the soup’s European roots and add depth.
- Garnishes: Fresh parsley, chives, or a dollop of sour cream elevate the presentation and add bursts of flavor.
| Pairing Type | Description | Why it Works |
|---|---|---|
| Crusty Bread | Fresh or toasted | Absorbs soup, adds texture |
| Grilled Cheese | Melty, crispy sandwich | Complements creamy tanginess |
| Green Salad | Light greens with vinaigrette | Balances richness with acidity |
| Roasted Vegetables | Olive oil roasted seasonal vegetables | Adds earthiness and visual appeal |
| Smoked Sausage/Ham | Cooked, sliced | Boosts savoriness and heartiness |
| Fresh Herb Garnishes | Parsley, chives, sour cream | Brightens flavor and enhances creaminess |
Storage Tips
To preserve the luscious flavor and creamy texture of our mustard soup, proper storage is essential. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigeration: Transfer cooled soup to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container, leaving room for expansion. It stays good for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Avoid Overheating: High heat can cause the cream to separate. Always reheat slowly and stir continuously.
- Separate Garnishes: If adding fresh herbs or sour cream, store them separately and add after reheating for maximum freshness.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Duration | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Airtight | Up to 3 days | Reheat over low heat, stir often |
| Freezer | Freezer-safe | Up to 2 months | Thaw overnight, reheat gently |
By following these serving suggestions, we enhance every spoonful of our comforting mustard soup with thoughtful pairings and maintain its delightful taste through careful storage.
Conclusion
Mustard soup offers a unique blend of tangy and creamy flavors that make it a standout choice for any meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a dish we can easily add to our cooking repertoire.
By using the right tools and paying attention to prep details, we ensure each batch turns out smooth and flavorful. Whether served with crusty bread or garnished with fresh herbs, this soup is both comforting and versatile.
Let’s embrace this delightful recipe as a cozy option that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends, bringing warmth and a touch of European charm to our tables.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mustard soup?
Mustard soup is a creamy and tangy soup that combines the sharp flavor of Dijon mustard with ingredients like potatoes, onions, garlic, broth, and cream. It offers a comforting taste often enjoyed in European cuisine.
What are the main ingredients in mustard soup?
The key ingredients include unsalted butter, yellow onion, garlic, Dijon mustard, chicken or vegetable broth, heavy cream, and potatoes. Optional garnishes may include fresh herbs, croutons, cheese, and spices.
Do I need special equipment to make mustard soup?
Yes, essential equipment includes a large soup pot, wooden spoon or silicone spatula, sharp chef’s knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, and a blender or immersion blender for smooth texture.
How do I prepare the vegetables for mustard soup?
Peel and dice potatoes into 1-inch cubes, finely chop yellow onions, and mince garlic cloves. Accurate measurement and prep help ensure the soup cooks evenly and tastes balanced.
What is the basic cooking process for mustard soup?
Sauté onions and garlic in melted butter, add diced potatoes and broth, cook until tender, blend smooth, then stir in Dijon mustard and heavy cream. Simmer to blend the flavors perfectly.
What can I serve with mustard soup?
Mustard soup pairs well with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, green salads, roasted vegetables, or smoked meats like sausage or ham. Garnishes like fresh herbs or sour cream also enhance the presentation.
How should I store leftover mustard soup?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze for up to two months. Reheat gently to avoid separation and maintain creamy texture.
Can I make mustard soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the soup vegetarian while preserving its rich flavor and creamy texture.