French Garlic Soup: A Creamy Winter Soup for Comfort
This French Garlic Soup recipe is a simple yet flavorful classic from the French countryside. Combining garlic, herbs, creamy egg yolks, and rustic bread, it delivers a comforting and wholesome experience. Whether you're cooking for yourself or hosting guests, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 20-30 garlic cloves peeled
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 slices day-old French bread
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic
- Peel the garlic cloves using the blanching or knife-crushing method. Optionally, roast half of the garlic cloves at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.
- Sauté Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic and onions, sautéing until garlic is golden and onions are translucent.
- Deglaze the Pot
- Pour in a splash of white wine or broth, scraping up any browned bits.
- Simmer the Broth
- Add chicken or vegetable broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and let simmer for 30-40 minutes.
- Blend or Leave Chunky
- Blend the soup for a smooth texture or leave it rustic with chunks of garlic and onion.
- Add Egg Yolks
- Whisk egg yolks with a splash of warm broth to temper. Slowly add the yolks to the soup while stirring continuously.
- Prepare Bread Garnish
- Toast French bread slices brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with herbs.
- Assemble and Serve
- Place a toasted bread slice in each bowl. Ladle the soup over the bread. Optionally, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Notes
- To enhance creaminess, stir in a tablespoon of butter or a splash of cream.
- Adjust seasoning at the end to suit your taste.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently to preserve texture.