Country French Garlic Soup

A Cozy and Aromatic Delight

If you’re a garlic lover, this Country French Garlic Soup is a must-try recipe. With a creamy, velvety texture and rich garlic flavor, this soup is both comforting and elegant. Inspired by the rustic cuisine of the French countryside, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as a starter for a special meal. Paired with toasted baguette slices and Parmesan cheese, this dish is a culinary experience that celebrates the simplicity and depth of garlic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Aromatic and Flavorful: Features the robust, sweet flavor of garlic complemented by thyme and bay leaves.
  • Creamy Texture: The egg yolk and cream mixture creates a rich, velvety consistency.
  • Perfect for Garlic Lovers: With 40 cloves of garlic, this soup is a dream come true for fans of the aromatic bulb.
  • Elegant and Comforting: A rustic yet refined dish that’s ideal for special occasions or everyday meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Roasted Garlic Instead of Raw?

Yes! Roasting the garlic before adding it to the soup will create a sweeter, more mellow flavor.

How Can I Make It Thicker?

Blend in a small boiled potato or reduce the broth slightly during simmering for a thicker consistency.

Is This Soup Gluten-Free?

The soup itself is gluten-free; just ensure the broth used is labeled gluten-free, and serve with gluten-free bread if needed.

Ingredients for Country French Garlic Soup

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

Kitchen Equipment

To make this soup, you’ll need:

  • A large pot or Dutch oven
  • Immersion blender or countertop blender
  • Whisk
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet (for toasting baguette slices)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Garlic and Onions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced garlic and onions, cooking for about 10 minutes, or until soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

2. Simmer the Soup

  1. Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot along with the dried thyme and bay leaves.
  2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

3. Blend Until Smooth

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

4. Prepare the Cream Mixture

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and heavy cream.
  2. Slowly add a ladle of the hot soup to the cream mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.

5. Finish the Soup

  1. Stir the tempered egg and cream mixture back into the pot.
  2. Heat gently over low heat, being careful not to let the soup boil, as this may curdle the eggs.

6. Serve

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with toasted baguette slices topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for Perfect Country French Garlic Soup

  • Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide a sweet, aromatic flavor. Avoid pre-minced garlic for the best results.
  • Temper Carefully: Adding hot soup gradually to the egg yolks prevents curdling and ensures a creamy consistency.
  • Toast Baguettes Evenly: Lightly brush the slices with olive oil before toasting for a crisp and flavorful accompaniment.
  • Don’t Skip the Parmesan: The nutty, salty flavor of Parmesan complements the richness of the soup beautifully.

Variations and Add-Ins

  • Vegan Option: Replace the cream with coconut milk and omit the egg yolks for a plant-based version.
  • Add Potatoes: For a heartier soup, add diced potatoes during the simmering step and blend with the rest of the ingredients.
  • Herb Infusion: Use fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for an even more aromatic flavor.
  • Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a bit of heat.

Storing and Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze the soup (before adding the egg and cream mixture) in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and finishing with the cream mixture.
  • Reheating: Warm the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid curdling.

Perfect Pairings

This Country French Garlic Soup pairs beautifully with:

  • Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
  • White Wine: Serve with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay for an elegant meal.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Complement the soup with roasted asparagus or carrots.

Savor the Comfort of Country French Garlic Soup

This Country French Garlic Soup is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for garlic lovers. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and elegant presentation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

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