Mushroom Soup

The International Day of Happiness is celebrated on March 20. Together with economic growth, happiness is a recognized component of progress. The concept of happiness is subject to different interpretations, but the common ground is that everybody wants to be happy. Some people may equate happiness with money and possessions, but many others maintain that happiness is derived from the intangible things in their lives. 

A person’s degree of happiness is determined by different factors such as genetics and circumstances in life. Some people are clearly born predisposed to happiness, regardless of thesituation they are in. These people can find satisfaction even in the midst of deep trials. On the other hand, some people may seem to have every good thing imaginable and still find it hard to be content.

The experience of eating good food makes many of us happy. Certain foods, known as “mood foods,” have been attributed with affecting people’s outlook and sense of satisfaction. Mushrooms are a “superfood” that contain many nutrients. They are rich in selenium. People with selenium deficiencies may experiences anxiety, fatigue, and depression. Mushrooms are also a good source of natural vitamin D, an important nutrient that many of us need more of. Vitamin D can help elevate mood in some people.

A bowl of warm mushroom soup can help lift a sagging spirit. Here is a simple recipe to satisfy your craving:

Ingredients:

• 6 tablespoon of butter
• 1 thinly sliced small onion
• 12 ounces button mushrooms
• 4 cups chicken stock
• finely chopped parsley
• salt to taste
• freshly ground black pepper
• 2 ounces sherry (high quality)

Preparation:

Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until the slices get soft and translucent. Add the mushrooms and remaining butter and let sweat for 8 minutes, until the onion turns a golden color. Stir in the chicken stock and parsley and cook until the soup boils. When it starts boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for an hour. 

Let the soup cool down and transfer to a blender. Blend at high speed until smooth. After blending, return to the pot and add salt and pepper. Simmer again and add the sherry. Your “happy soup” is ready. Enjoy!