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
- 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.
- Sauté the onion – Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.
- Simmer the broth – Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, add the thyme and bay leaf, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add cream (optional) – If you want a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 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!
PrintCountry French Garlic Soup (Soupe à l’Ail)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Country French Garlic Soup (Soupe à l’Ail) is a rustic, comforting dish made with roasted garlic, fresh herbs, and a rich broth. Simple yet deeply flavorful, this traditional French soup is perfect for cold days or when you need a soothing, nourishing meal. Serve it with crusty bread and a drizzle of olive oil for an authentic touch!
Ingredients
- 2 heads of garlic, cloves peeled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 egg yolks (for richness, optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 1/2 baguette, sliced and toasted
- Grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese (for serving, optional)
Instructions
-
Roast the Garlic (Optional for Milder Flavor):
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Toss the peeled garlic cloves with 1 tbsp olive oil and wrap them in foil.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes until soft and golden.
-
Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic (roasted or raw) and sauté for another 2 minutes.
-
Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the broth, add the bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaf.
-
Blend for a Smooth Texture (Optional):
- For a creamy consistency, blend the soup using an immersion blender or a regular blender until smooth.
-
Finish with Egg Yolks & Cream (Optional):
- If using egg yolks, whisk them in a bowl with the heavy cream.
- Slowly add 1 cup of hot soup to the mixture, stirring constantly.
- Pour the mixture back into the pot, stirring gently over low heat (do not boil).
-
Serve & Enjoy:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with toasted baguette slices.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese, if desired.
- Drizzle with olive oil and serve warm!
Notes
- For a Vegan Version: Use vegetable broth and skip the butter, eggs, and cream.
- For Extra Depth: Add a splash of white wine before simmering.
- Serving Tip: This soup pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and a glass of white wine.
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