This Country French Garlic Soup combines the rich aroma of garlic with creamy textures and the rustic charm of crusty bread. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup is simple yet elegant, offering a delightful balance of hearty flavors and delicate creaminess. Follow this easy recipe to bring a taste of the French countryside to your table.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 whole heads of garlic, cloves peeled and sliced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
4 slices crusty bread, toasted
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Sauté the Garlic and Onion
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the sliced garlic and gently sauté for 3–4 minutes until lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Add the finely diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened.
2. Build the Flavor Base
Pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme and bay leaf.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
3. Simmer the Soup
Let the soup simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Remove and discard the bay leaf after simmering.
4. Add the Creamy Element
Stir in the heavy cream and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and thicken slightly.
5. Prepare the Garnish
While the soup simmers, toast the slices of crusty bread until golden brown.
Grate the Parmesan cheese and chop some fresh parsley for garnish.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
Top each serving with a slice of toasted bread, sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese, and garnish with parsley.
Serve immediately for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best French Garlic Soup
Roast the Garlic: For a deeper, sweeter garlic flavor, roast the garlic cloves before adding them to the soup.
Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, replace dried thyme with fresh thyme for an elevated flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.
Pairing Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
Pair the soup with a glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay to complement its creamy richness.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 8g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
This Country French Garlic Soup is a classic recipe that will quickly become a family favorite. Its creamy, garlicky goodness paired with crusty bread and Parmesan makes it a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Bon appétit! 🌟
