VEGAN CREAM OF MUSHROOM SOUP

INGREDIENTS1/2 cup raw cashews1/4 cup olive oil1 sweet onion finely chopped3 cloves garlic finely chopped1 1/2 lb cremini mushrooms sliced1/4 cup all-purpose flour2 cups vegetable broth6 sprigs thyme tied with twine2 bay leaves1 tsp sea salt1/4 tsp pepper1 tbsp miso white or redSTEPSIn a small bowl and the cashews and pour in boiling water to soak. Set aside.In a large pot, add the olive oil, onion and garlic and bring to medium-high heat. Cook, stirring often until the onions have softened, about 7 minutes).

Add the mushrooms and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, then sprinkle in the flour and mix together. Cook for 2 minutes, then pour in 1/2 cup of the vegetable broth and bring to a low simmer. Toss in the thyme, bay leaves, salt and pepper. Simmer the soup for 5 minutes, then pour in the remaining broth. Cover and let the soup simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.Meanwhile, make the cashew cream: strain the cashews and add to a high-speed blender with the miso and 3/4 cup of fresh water. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Turn the heat to low and pour the cashew cream into the soup. Stir everything to combine. Scoop out the thyme and bay leaf and serve.