
How to Make Garlic Soup
Garlic soup is the perfect choice for those looking for an elegant and unique dish that fills the home with incredible aromas. This rich, flavorful soup highlights the essence of garlic, balanced with gentle seasoning to create a luxurious and unconventional culinary experience.
This simple recipe emphasizes garlic while maintaining a harmonious flavor profile and unique texture. It’s ideal as a surprising addition to a festive dinner or as a warming, hearty main course for winter.
Ingredients:
- 2 large garlic heads (about 20 cloves), peeled
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 medium potato, peeled and cubed
- 6–8 cups water or vegetable broth
- ½ cup cooking cream (optional), for a velvety texture
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Preparation:
- Wash the celery, peel the potato, and separate and peel the garlic cloves. Cut the potato into medium-sized cubes.
- Optional: Roast the garlic.
Place the peeled garlic cloves on a baking tray, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes, or until soft and golden. Roasting enhances the garlic’s natural sweetness and aroma while reducing its sharpness. If roasted, add the garlic later during cooking, after the potatoes.
Cooking the Base Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté the chopped onion and celery until the onion begins to soften and turn golden.
- Add the fresh garlic cloves (or roasted, if prepared) and the cubed potato. Stir and cook over medium heat for 2–3 minutes to combine flavors. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
Adding Liquids and Simmering:
- Pour water or broth over the ingredients in the pot, ensuring all components are covered with liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce to medium-low heat, and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes and garlic are very soft.
Blending the Soup:
- Remove the bay leaf if using, and let the soup cool slightly.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If desired, stir in the cooking cream for extra richness.
Tips for Enhancing the Soup:
- Homemade Croutons: Serve with garlic and parsley-seasoned croutons or toasted bread for added crunch.
- Herbs: Top with chopped parsley or chives for color and freshness.
- Smoky Flavors: Add grated Parmesan cheese or crispy bacon/lamb bacon cubes for a smoky twist.
- Coconut Milk: Replace cream with coconut milk for a unique, creamy flavor.
- Extra Roasted Garlic: Reserve a few roasted garlic cloves for garnish when serving.
Storing the Soup:
Garlic soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If it thickens, dilute with a bit of water or vegetable broth when reheating.
Enjoy your aromatic and comforting garlic soup!