Country French Garlic Soup

A Warm Embrace of Comfort and Flavor

If you’re a fan of bold, aromatic flavors, this Country French Garlic Soup is the perfect dish for you. Infused with the natural sweetness of garlic and balanced by creamy, velvety textures, this soup is a comforting nod to rustic French cooking. It’s an ideal dish for cold evenings, special gatherings, or whenever you crave a bowl of something rich and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Aromatic and Flavorful: Garlic and thyme come together to create a wonderfully fragrant soup.
  • Creamy and Smooth: The tempered egg yolks and cream give the soup a luxurious texture.
  • Perfect for Garlic Lovers: With 40 cloves of garlic, this soup is a celebration of its star ingredient.
  • Rustic Elegance: Simple yet refined, this dish is perfect for entertaining or a quiet night in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Roasted Garlic?

Yes! Roasting the garlic beforehand adds a sweet, caramelized depth to the soup.

What’s the Best Way to Temper the Eggs?

Add the hot soup to the egg mixture slowly while whisking constantly to prevent curdling.

Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?

You can prepare the base ahead of time and stir in the egg and cream mixture just before serving.

Ingredients for Country French Garlic Soup

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 40 cloves garlic (peeled and sliced)
  • 1 onion (thinly sliced)
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 baguette (sliced and toasted)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need the following tools:

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Immersion blender or countertop blender
  • Whisk
  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Garlic and Onion

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced garlic and onion. Cook gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft but not browned.

2. Add the Broth and Seasonings

  1. Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaves and dried thyme.
  2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

3. Blend the Soup

  1. Remove the bay leaves from the pot.
  2. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If using a countertop blender, blend in batches and return the soup to the pot.

4. Prepare the Egg and Cream Mixture

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and heavy cream.
  2. Gradually add a few ladles of hot soup to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent curdling.

5. Finish the Soup

  1. Slowly stir the tempered egg mixture back into the pot of soup.
  2. Heat gently over low heat, ensuring the soup does not boil.

6. Serve

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with toasted baguette slices.
  2. Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch.

Tips for Perfect Country French Garlic Soup

  • Don’t Brown the Garlic: Cook the garlic gently to avoid bitterness, which can overpower the soup.
  • Temper Carefully: Whisking hot soup into the egg mixture slowly ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.
  • Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly peeled garlic cloves provide the best flavor and sweetness.
  • Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.

Variations and Add-Ins

  • Vegan Option: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and heavy cream with coconut cream.
  • Herb Boost: Add fresh parsley or rosemary for additional aroma and flavor.
  • Cheese Swap: Use Gruyère or Pecorino Romano for a different cheesy topping.
  • Add Protein: Include shredded chicken or crumbled sausage for a heartier soup.

Storing and Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Avoid freezing, as the cream and egg mixture may separate upon reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Do not boil.

Perfect Pairings

This soup pairs beautifully with:

  • Crusty Bread: Serve with extra toasted baguette slices for dipping.
  • Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
  • White Wine: Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay.

Savor the Warmth of Country French Garlic Soup

This Country French Garlic Soup is a comforting, aromatic dish that’s perfect for garlic lovers and anyone seeking a rich and satisfying meal. Its velvety texture and bold flavors make it a standout recipe for any occasion.

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