A Garlicky Soup is a simple, flavorful dish that can be comforting and full of depth. Garlic adds an aromatic, savory richness to the broth, and when combined with the right ingredients, it creates a delicious, nourishing soup. Below is a classic Garlic Soup recipe that’s easy to make and packed with garlic goodness.
Garlicky Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 cloves garlic, minced (you can use more if you love garlic!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced (optional, for a creamy texture)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few sprigs of fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- 1/2 cup small pasta (like orzo or small shells), or croutons (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions:
- Sauté the Garlic and Onion:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant and the onion softens (be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter).
- Add the Broth and Potato (if using):
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Stir in the diced potato (if using), thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes. Bring the soup to a simmer.
- Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender (if using potatoes).
- Blend the Soup (Optional):
- For a smoother, creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until it reaches your desired consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
- If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step and leave it as is.
- Season and Add Pasta or Croutons (Optional):
- Taste the soup and add salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. If you’re adding pasta, stir in the small pasta and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until tender. Alternatively, you can add croutons to the soup for extra crunch.
- Finish and Serve:
- Stir in the butter (if using) for added richness and creaminess.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions:
- Bread: Serve the soup with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- Cheese: Top with freshly grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Side: This soup pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or a charcuterie platter.
Tips:
- More Garlic: If you want an even stronger garlic flavor, you can roast the garlic first (by wrapping whole cloves in foil and baking at 400°F for about 30 minutes) and add them to the soup.
- Vegan Version: To make it vegan, simply use vegetable broth and skip the butter (or use vegan butter).
- Protein Add-ins: For a heartier soup, you can add cooked chicken, sausage, or beans.
This Garlicky Soup is the perfect combination of comfort and flavor, perfect for a cozy evening or as a starter to a bigger meal!