Introduction
Country French Garlic Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that showcases the robust flavors of garlic. This recipe, sourced from EpicureanNest, combines simple ingredients to create a hearty soup perfect for any meal. With its aromatic base and creamy texture, it’s sure to warm you up on a chilly day.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 whole head of garlic, peeled and minced
– 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 4 slices of crusty bread (such as baguette), toasted
– 2 eggs
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Enjoy your comforting bowl of Country French Garlic Soup!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics:
– Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
– Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
– Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Simmer the Broth:
– Pour in the broth and add the thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
– Stir to combine, then bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
– Let it cook uncovered for about 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Prepare the Toasted Bread:
– While the soup is simmering, toast the bread slices until golden and crisp.
Temper the Eggs:
– In a small bowl, whisk the eggs.
– To prevent scrambling when added to the hot soup, temper the eggs by slowly drizzling a ladle of the hot broth into the eggs while whisking continuously.
– Once combined, slowly pour the egg mixture back into the soup, stirring constantly to create a silky, slightly thickened texture.
Serve:
– Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
– Ladle the soup into bowls, top each serving with a slice of toasted bread, and sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese.
– Garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor and color.
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
– This soup pairs well with a simple green salad or a light cheese platter.
Storage:
– Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Variations:
– For a richer flavor, you can add cooked potatoes or replace part of the broth with white wine.
Cook techniques
1. Sautéing Aromatics
Sautéing is a technique used to cook food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over medium to high heat. In this recipe, onions and garlic are sautéed to enhance their flavors and develop a rich base for the soup.
2. Simmering
Simmering involves cooking a liquid at a temperature just below boiling. This allows flavors to meld together without breaking down ingredients too much. In the soup, simmering the broth with herbs and spices brings out their aromas and taste.
3. Toasting Bread
Toasting bread involves exposing it to heat until it becomes crisp and golden. This creates a lovely texture and enhances the flavor, making it a delightful addition to the soup.
4. Tempering Eggs
Tempering is a technique used to gradually raise the temperature of eggs before adding them to a hot mixture. This prevents the eggs from scrambling and allows for a smooth incorporation into the soup, resulting in a creamy texture.
5. Garnishing
Garnishing involves adding final touches to a dish for flavor, color, and presentation. In this recipe, chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese are used to enhance the visual appeal and add complexity to the flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
While garlic powder can provide flavor, fresh garlic has a more robust taste and aroma, which is essential for the soup’s character. It’s best to use fresh garlic if possible.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the soup vegetarian-friendly.
Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?
Absolutely! You can substitute Parmesan with grated Pecorino Romano or even a shredded cheese blend, depending on your preference.
How long will the leftovers last?
Leftover Country French Garlic Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup without the eggs and bread for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw and reheat on the stove when ready to serve.
Conclusion
Enjoy the rich flavors of Country French Garlic Soup, a delightful dish that is not only comforting but also a great way to embrace the garlicky essence combined with savory broth. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, satisfying your craving for warmth and depth in each bowl.
Garlic and Herb Croutons
Add some homemade garlic and herb croutons for an extra crunch. Simply cube day-old bread, toss with olive oil, minced garlic, and herbs, then bake until golden.
Roasted Vegetable Medley
Pair the soup with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini drizzled with balsamic vinegar for a colorful and healthy complement.
Classic French Ratatouille
Consider serving this soup alongside a classic ratatouille, featuring layers of baked vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes to celebrate rustic French cuisine.
Mixed Green Salad with Vinaigrette
A fresh mixed green salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the garlic soup.
Cheese and Charcuterie Board
Serve a cheese and charcuterie board with assorted cheeses, cured meats, and pickles for a delightful appetizer that pairs beautifully with the soup.
Quiche Lorraine
A slice of quiche Lorraine, filled with bacon, eggs, and cheese, can transform your soup into a substantial meal, offering a wonderful contrast in textures.
Herbed Focaccia Bread
Homemade herbed focaccia bread makes for a perfect accompaniment, great for dunking into the flavorful broth of the soup.
Chilled Avocado Soup
Try a chilled avocado soup as a refreshing starter, providing a creamy contrast to the warmth of the garlic soup.
Fruit Tart for Dessert
Finish your meal with a light fruit tart, offering a sweet and tangy conclusion that complements the savory elements of your meal.
