Garlic Soup (Simple, Hearty & Comforting)
Garlic Soup is a humble yet deeply flavorful dish made with slow-simmered garlic, warm broth, and simple pantry ingredients. Known for its comforting and restorative qualities, garlic soup has long been enjoyed in many cultures as a warming meal, especially during cold seasons or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Despite its simplicity, this soup develops a surprisingly rich and mellow flavor as the garlic softens and sweetens during cooking.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Soup
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Made with simple, affordable ingredients
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Naturally comforting and warming
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Light yet satisfying
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Easy to customize
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Ready in under 30 minutes
Ingredients
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2 heads of garlic (about 20–24 cloves), peeled
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2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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4 cups (1 liter) vegetable or chicken broth
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1 bay leaf
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Optional: pinch of paprika or thyme
Optional Add-Ins
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1 egg (traditional in some versions)
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Croutons or toasted bread
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Grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic
Lightly crush the garlic cloves with the flat side of a knife. This helps release flavor while allowing the garlic to soften without burning.
Step 2: Sauté
Heat olive oil or butter in a pot over medium-low heat. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add the garlic and cook gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring often. Do not brown the garlic—keep the heat low to prevent bitterness.
Step 3: Simmer
Pour in the broth and add the bay leaf. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Reduce heat and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until the garlic is very soft and fragrant.
Step 4: Finish the Soup
Season with salt and black pepper. Remove the bay leaf.
For a smoother soup, blend part or all of the soup using a hand blender.
Optional Traditional Egg Finish
For a richer, traditional touch:
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Beat 1 egg in a bowl
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Slowly drizzle into the hot (not boiling) soup while stirring constantly
This creates delicate egg ribbons and adds body to the soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve garlic soup hot with:
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Crusty bread or toast
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Croutons sprinkled on top
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Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan
Tips for the Best Garlic Soup
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Use fresh garlic for the best flavor
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Keep heat low when cooking garlic
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Simmer gently to mellow garlic’s sharpness
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Blend partially for a creamy texture without cream
Variations
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Creamy Garlic Soup: Add ½ cup cream or milk
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Spanish Style: Add smoked paprika and bread cubes
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French Style: Use butter and finish with egg yolk
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Healing Version: Add turmeric and ginger
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Soup is proof that simple ingredients can create incredible comfort. Warm, nourishing, and full of mellow garlic flavor, it’s perfect as a light meal or soothing starter.