Description
Homemade French Garlic Soup, or Soupe à l’ail, is a rustic, aromatic dish made by simmering whole garlic cloves in a flavorful broth. It’s comforting, deeply nourishing, and perfect with crusty bread for a cozy, elegant meal.
Ingredients
- 2 heads garlic, cloves peeled
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, chopped (optional)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 sprig fresh thyme or 1 bay leaf
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten (optional for thickening)
- Crusty bread, for serving
- Grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Peel garlic cloves and gently sauté in olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add chopped onion (if using) and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Pour in the broth and add thyme or bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30–40 minutes, until garlic is very tender and flavors are blended.
- Remove herbs. For a creamy soup, blend with an immersion or standard blender until smooth.
- If using eggs, slowly drizzle the beaten eggs into the hot soup while stirring to create silky ribbons.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with crusty bread and a sprinkle of cheese, if desired.
Notes
- Add a splash of cream for extra richness.
- Poach whole eggs in the simmering soup for a traditional French twist.
- Use roasted garlic for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
- Serve over toasted bread with melted cheese for a heartier dish.
- Make vegetarian by using veggie broth and omitting eggs and cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
