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Country French Garlic Soup

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Country French Garlic Soup is a rustic, comforting soup that highlights the mellow sweetness of slow-simmered garlic. With simple ingredients like broth, herbs, and crusty bread, it’s a nourishing and flavorful meal that’s perfect for cozy days or when you need a boost.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: French
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 heads garlic, cloves peeled and sliced or crushed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 6 cups water or vegetable/chicken broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 4 slices crusty bread (French or sourdough)
  • 1/2 cup grated Gruyère or Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Peel and slice or crush the garlic cloves. Optional: finely chop the onion.
  2. In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until golden and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.
  3. If using, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes more.
  4. Pour in the broth or water, add the bay leaf and thyme, and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30–40 minutes to allow flavors to develop and garlic to mellow.
  6. Remove the bay leaf and optionally blend the soup until smooth, or leave it rustic.
  7. Toast the bread slices. Place one slice in each serving bowl, sprinkle with grated cheese, and broil until bubbly and golden.
  8. Ladle hot soup into bowls over the cheesy toast and serve immediately with extra bread if desired.

Notes

  • Add a splash of white wine when sautéing garlic for extra depth.
  • Blend in a bit of cream or milk at the end for a creamy version.
  • Use vegetable broth and plant-based cheese to keep it vegan.
  • For a silky texture, stir in a beaten egg during the last minute of cooking.
  • Freeze the soup (without bread topping) for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/country-french-garlic-soup/