Garlic Soup is a fragrant, savory dish that brings out the deep, aromatic flavors of garlic, paired with a light, comforting broth. It’s a perfect choice for a cozy meal on chilly days or when you need a nourishing boost. This simple yet flavorful soup can be enjoyed on its own or as a starter to a larger meal. Garlic has natural health benefits, making this soup not only delicious but also soothing.

Ingredients:

  • 1 head of garlic (about 10-12 cloves)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if preferred)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the garlic: Peel the garlic cloves (you can leave them whole or chop them up for a more intense flavor). If you’re using a whole head of garlic, slice off the top to expose the cloves.
  2. Cook the garlic and onion: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic cloves and chopped onion, cooking for about 5-7 minutes, until the onions become soft and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and add the thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Let the soup cook for about 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
  4. Blend the soup (optional): For a smoother texture, remove the bay leaf, and use an immersion blender to puree the soup right in the pot. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender. If you prefer a chunkier soup, simply skip the blending step.
  5. Finish the soup: If you’re using heavy cream, stir it in now for a richer, creamier texture. Add a splash of lemon juice if you want to brighten the flavors.
  6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy with some crusty bread or as a light meal!

Nutrition (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

  • Calories: 100 kcal
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Fat: 6 g
    • Saturated fat: 1.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
    • Fiber: 1 g
    • Sugars: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 5 mg (if using heavy cream)
  • Sodium: 500 mg
  • Potassium: 250 mg

This Garlic Soup is simple to prepare, full of flavor, and can be adapted based on your preferences for texture or creaminess. Whether you enjoy it with or without cream, it’s a comforting bowl of goodness!