Description
This rustic French garlic soup is a cozy and comforting dish with deep, rich flavors. Slow-cooked garlic mellows into a smooth, slightly sweet broth, enhanced with aromatic herbs and finished with a velvety egg yolk mixture. It’s a simple yet elegant soup that pairs perfectly with crusty bread for dipping. Whether you’re seeking warmth on a cold day or a nourishing meal to soothe the soul, this traditional French recipe is sure to impress
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 whole heads of garlic, peeled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 egg yolks
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Crusty bread, for serving
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Sauté the Base:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, approximately 5 minutes.
Incorporate Garlic:
- Introduce peeled garlic cloves to the pot, cooking for 2-3 minutes while stirring to prevent burning.
Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in chicken or vegetable broth.
- Add fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaves.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Let the mixture cook for 30 minutes, allowing the garlic to soften and infuse the broth.
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
Temper the Eggs:
- Gradually add a ladle of the hot soup into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent curdling.
Thicken the Soup:
- Slowly pour the tempered egg mixture back into the pot, stirring constantly.
- Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the soup slightly thickens.
Finalize and Serve:
- Remove thyme sprigs and bay leaves from the pot.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot alongside crusty bread.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, roast the garlic before adding it to the soup.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- If you prefer a dairy-free option, omit the Parmesan cheese.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: French