Description
Rich, creamy, and infused with the bold flavor of garlic, Country French Garlic Soup is a comforting classic that celebrates rustic French cooking. This luxurious yet simple soup is perfect as a cozy main dish or an elegant starter, paired with crusty bread and garnished with fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 whole heads of garlic, peeled
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Thickening and Garnishing:
- 4 egg yolks
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Crusty bread (for serving)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients:
- Peel the garlic cloves and chop the onion.
- Grate the Parmesan cheese and separate the egg yolks into a small bowl.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic cloves and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Simmer the Broth:
- Add chicken or vegetable broth to the pot.
- Stir in fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
- Remove Herbs and Season:
- Carefully remove thyme sprigs and bay leaves from the soup.
- Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
- Temper the Egg Mixture:
- In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Slowly ladle a small amount of hot soup into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Thicken the Soup:
- Gradually pour the tempered egg mixture back into the soup, stirring continuously.
- Simmer for 5 more minutes to thicken slightly, but do not let it boil.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
- Serve with crusty bread on the side and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor—avoid pre-minced or jarred options.
- Tempering the egg yolks is essential to prevent curdling when added to the hot soup.
- Adjust the soup’s consistency by adding a bit more broth if it becomes too thick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: French