Description
Rustic Country French Garlic Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of French countryside cooking. This hearty soup features a rich garlic-infused broth, tender potatoes, and aromatic herbs, creating a warming experience perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 10 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cups sliced potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the broth and add the sliced potatoes, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. For a chunkier texture, blend only half of it.
- Stir in the heavy cream, if using, and warm it through without boiling.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- Serve hot with crusty bread on the side for dipping.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use fresh garlic.
- Adjust soup thickness by adding an extra potato or some cooked rice, or by using less broth.
- Experiment with herbs like rosemary or sage for a unique twist.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- For a vegan version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and vegetable broth.
- Roasted garlic can be used for a deeper, sweeter flavor.
- Add grated Gruyère or Parmesan cheese just before serving for a cheesy variation.
- Top with homemade herbed croutons for added texture.
- Add fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
- For a meaty version, cook diced ham or crispy bacon before adding the onions.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.
- Reheat gently on low heat, adding broth or water if too thick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Fat: 14 g
- Protein: 5 g