French Garlic Soup from the Country

Roasted Garlic and Potato Soup

A comforting, creamy soup bursting with the mellow sweetness of roasted garlic and the heartiness of potatoes. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy meal, served with warm, toasted country bread. Add a touch of cream for extra richness or keep it light—it’s delicious either way!

Ingredients (Serves 4–6):

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 eggs, whisked
• 2 garlic bulbs (20–25 cloves), peeled
• 6 cups (1.5 liters) chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
• Country-style bread, toasted (to serve)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic cloves and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden. Avoid overcooking to prevent bitterness.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

1. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened and translucent.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Stir in the broth, diced potatoes, thyme, and bay leaf.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Blend the Soup (Optional)

1. Remove the bay leaf and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
2. If you prefer a chunkier soup, skip this step.

Step 5: Add the Eggs

1. Whisk the eggs in a small bowl.
2. Slowly pour the whisked eggs into the hot soup, stirring constantly to create thin ribbons.

Step 6: Add Cream (Optional)

1. For extra creaminess, stir in the heavy cream.
2. Heat gently without bringing the soup to a boil.

Step 7: Season and Garnish

1. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with slices of toasted country bread for dipping.
• For a French-inspired touch, place a slice of bread on top of the soup and sprinkle with grated cheese before broiling briefly until golden.

Tips for Success

• Roasting Option: For a deeper flavor, roast the garlic cloves in the oven until caramelized before adding them to the soup.
• Customize the Texture: Blend fully for a creamy consistency, or leave some chunks for a rustic feel.
• Make It Vegan: Use vegetable broth and skip the eggs and cream. Add a splash of coconut milk for creaminess.

Preparation Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The roasted garlic adds a mellow sweetness that pairs perfectly with potatoes.
• Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together to create a satisfying meal.
• Versatile: Easily adjust the creaminess and texture to your liking.