Country French Garlic Soup

Country French Garlic Soup is a rustic, comforting dish packed with the deep, rich flavor of slow-cooked garlic. This classic soup is known for its smooth texture, aromatic broth, and nourishing qualities. Traditionally enjoyed in French countryside homes, it’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that warms the soul and delights the taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and aromatic – Slow-cooked garlic brings out its natural sweetness and depth.
• Easy to make – Uses simple pantry ingredients and requires minimal effort.
• Comforting and nourishing – A perfect soup for chilly days or when you need a boost.
• Customizable – Enjoy it as a light broth or blend it into a creamy consistency.
• Pairs well with everything – Serve with crusty bread, cheese, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Garlic cloves, peeled
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Onion, finely chopped
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Fresh thyme
• Bay leaf
• Egg yolks
• Heavy cream (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Baguette slices (for serving)
• Gruyère or Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the garlic – In a saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the peeled garlic cloves and cook until golden and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Sauté the onion – Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.
3. Simmer the broth – Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, add the thyme and bay leaf, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
4. Blend (optional) – For a smooth texture, remove the bay leaf and blend the soup until creamy. If you prefer a rustic broth, leave it as is.
5. Prepare the egg yolk mixture – In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks with a bit of warm broth to temper them. Slowly stir the mixture into the soup for richness.
6. Add cream (optional) – If you want a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve – Ladle the soup into bowls, top with toasted baguette slices, and sprinkle with cheese. Enjoy warm!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version – Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Creamy Garlic Soup – Blend the soup and add more heavy cream for a velvety texture.
• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Herbal Touch – Experiment with fresh rosemary or sage for added depth.
• Cheesy Toast Topping – Broil the baguette slices with cheese before serving for a delicious crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

FAQs

Is this soup very strong in garlic flavor?

No, slow-cooking the garlic mellows its sharpness and brings out a sweet, nutty flavor.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

What kind of garlic should I use?

Fresh garlic cloves work best, but you can also try roasted garlic for a deeper flavor.

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Whole cloves are recommended for the best flavor, but pre-minced can work in a pinch.

How do I make this soup thicker?

Blend the soup until smooth and add a bit more cream or a small amount of flour.

What should I serve with this soup?

It pairs well with crusty bread, cheese, or a light salad.

Can I skip the egg yolks?

Yes, but they add a silky texture and help thicken the soup slightly.

Is this soup keto-friendly?

Yes, as long as you skip the baguette topping or use a low-carb alternative.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Use olive oil instead of butter and skip the cream.

How do I reheat this soup without curdling?

Warm it gently over low heat, stirring often, and avoid boiling.

Conclusion

Country French Garlic Soup is a simple yet elegant dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With its rich garlic-infused broth and delicate flavors, it’s a delightful addition to your recipe collection. Serve it with crusty bread and cheese for a truly authentic experience. Enjoy!

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