The Country French Garlic Soup Recipe is a traditional and flavorful dish that highlights the rich, aromatic taste of garlic in a warm and comforting broth. This classic French soup is simple yet elegant, perfect for a cozy dinner, a light starter, or even a remedy for colds. The slow-cooked garlic brings out its natural sweetness, complemented by fresh herbs, a hint of cream, and crispy baguette slices topped with cheese.
This guide will walk you through how to make the perfect Country French Garlic Soup, with variations, tips, and serving suggestions.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 2 heads of garlic
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried rosemary
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 egg yolks (optional, for richness)
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
For Serving:
- Baguette slices, toasted
- Grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the garlic heads, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35-40 minutes until soft. Let cool, then squeeze out the roasted garlic cloves.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (3-4 minutes). Stir in the roasted garlic, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and salt.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the chicken broth, water, and add the bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Remove the bay leaf and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches using a blender.
Step 5: Add Egg Yolks and Cream (Optional)
If using egg yolks, whisk them in a separate bowl with ½ cup of the warm soup to temper them. Slowly whisk the mixture back into the pot. Stir in the heavy cream for a richer texture.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls, top with toasted baguette slices, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan or Gruyère. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Dairy-Free Option: Skip the butter and heavy cream or replace with coconut milk.
- Extra Creamy: Blend in a boiled potato for a thicker texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Cooking Notes
- Roasting Garlic: Brings out its natural sweetness and enhances flavor.
- Blending Tip: If using a traditional blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending to prevent splattering.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling if using egg yolks.
Country French Garlic Soup Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Pairs well with roasted carrots or asparagus.
- As a Starter: A great appetizer for a French-themed dinner.
- With Wine: Pairs well with a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
Tips
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh, high-quality garlic makes a significant difference in flavor.
- Toast the Baguette: Adds texture and crunch to complement the creamy soup.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Make It Ahead: Flavors deepen if made a day in advance and reheated before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 18g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Use vegetable broth and replace butter with more olive oil. Skip the egg yolks and heavy cream or use plant-based alternatives.
How do I prevent the soup from being too thin?
Simmer uncovered for a longer time to reduce the broth or add a boiled potato for thickness.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently, stirring well.
What’s the best cheese for this soup?
Gruyère and Parmesan both work well, but Comté or Emmental are great alternatives.
Can I use pre-minced garlic?
Fresh roasted garlic is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use 3 tbsp minced garlic sautéed with onions in a pinch.
Conclusion
The Country French Garlic Soup Recipe is a rich, aromatic, and comforting dish that highlights the deep flavors of slow-roasted garlic. Whether served as a starter or a light meal, this classic soup is a perfect way to enjoy the warmth and simplicity of French cuisine. Pair it with crusty bread and cheese for a satisfying experience!
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Country French Garlic Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 55 min
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 2 heads of garlic
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried rosemary
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 egg yolks (optional, for richness)
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
For Serving:
- Baguette slices, toasted
- Grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the garlic heads, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35-40 minutes until soft. Let cool, then squeeze out the roasted garlic cloves.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (3-4 minutes). Stir in the roasted garlic, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and salt.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the chicken broth, water, and add the bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Remove the bay leaf and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches using a blender.
Step 5: Add Egg Yolks and Cream (Optional)
If using egg yolks, whisk them in a separate bowl with ½ cup of the warm soup to temper them. Slowly whisk the mixture back into the pot. Stir in the heavy cream for a richer texture.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls, top with toasted baguette slices, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan or Gruyère. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Roasting Garlic: Brings out its natural sweetness and enhances flavor.
- Blending Tip: If using a traditional blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending to prevent splattering.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling if using egg yolks.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 45 min
Nutrition
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Protein: 6 g