Garlic soup, with its delightful essence and hearty warmth, pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes that can enhance your dining experience. Here are a few suggestions that I highly recommend:
- Crusty Bread: Nothing beats a slice of rustic, day-old bread for dipping. The texture contrasts nicely with the smoothness of the soup. Plus, it’s a traditional Italian companion.
- A Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad can cut through the richness of garlic soup. Think romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette. This will balance the flavors perfectly.
- Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses, particularly a sharp Parmigiano-Reggiano, complements garlic soup wonderfully. The saltiness of the cheese accentuates the soup’s savory notes.
What is Garlic Soup?
Garlic soup, traditionally known as “Sopa de Ajo” in Spain, or “Ajo Blanco” in certain regions, is a simple yet delightful dish. At its core, it showcases garlic as the star ingredient, combined with broth, herbs, and often a protein like eggs or meat. The result? A soup bursting with flavor that warms the soul.
Why This Recipe Works?
This garlic soup recipe has been crafted with a few key principles in mind. Here’s why it’s a winner:
1. Flavorful Base: Using essential ingredients such as fresh garlic, herbs, and quality broth creates a rich flavor profile. The balance of earthy and aromatic ingredients makes each spoonful satisfying.
2. Health Benefits: Garlic is loaded with health benefits. It has antimicrobial properties and can support immune function. When you sip this soup, you’re not just enjoying a dish; you’re nurturing your body.
3. Simple Preparation: Even if you’re a kitchen rookie, this recipe is straightforward. It requires minimal prep and cooking time, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without stress.
4. Customizable: This soup serves as a canvas for your creativity. Want to add a splash of cream? Or a sprinkle of your favorite cheese? Go for it. The flexibility of this recipe means it can cater to your taste preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
To make this delicious garlic soup, you’ll want to gather these essential ingredients:
- 6 cups (1.5 quarts) filtered water
- 2 fresh sage leaves
- 1 fresh bay leaf
- 12 medium garlic cloves, smashed, peeled, and roughly chopped
- 3/4 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- For the binding pommade:
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 large whole egg
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 ounce freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 egg yolks
- To serve:
- Day-old rustic crusty bread
- Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
- Day-old rustic crusty bread
How to Make This Garlic Soup
Let’s dive into the preparation. Making garlic soup is a journey that’s as delightful as enjoying the final product. Follow these detailed steps to create this comforting dish.
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
Start by bringing your 6 cups of filtered water to a boil. Add in the sage leaves and bay leaf. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes. This creates a fragrant herbal base that sets the stage for your soup.
Step 2: Add the Garlic
Once your broth is infused, stir in the garlic (all 12 cloves!) along with the fresh thyme and salt. Allow it to simmer for another 15 minutes. The garlic will become tender and start to release its aromatic oils into the broth. Your kitchen will smell incredible at this point!
Step 3: Create the Binding Pomade
While the broth is simmering, it’s time to make the binding pommade. In a small bowl, combine the egg yolks and the whole egg. Whisk them together with the black pepper and the freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. This mixture will thicken the soup and add a decadent creaminess.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Remove the broth from heat. Take out the sage leaves and bay leaf. Gradually stir in the egg mixture into the hot broth. It’s essential to do this slowly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Stir until everything is combined, and you see a beautiful cohesion in the soup.
Step 5: Final Touches
Drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil and stir in the lemon zest for a citrusy brightness that elevates the flavors. Adjust salt to your taste, if needed. This step is crucial; the olive oil adds richness, while the lemon zest brings a lively pop.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with fresh parsley and drizzle extra olive oil for that finishing touch. Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy each warm bite!
Tips & Tricks
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic is key. It brings a vibrant flavor that garlic powder simply can’t replicate.
- Quality Olive Oil: Invest in a high-quality extra virgin olive oil. It does wonders for flavor.
- Experiment with Herbs: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding yarrow or dill for new flavor dimensions.
- Creamier Texture: For a richer texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving. This thickens it beautifully.
- Make It Ahead: Garlic soup can be made a day in advance. This allows the flavors to deepen and develop overnight. Just reheat before serving.
Nutrition Information
This garlic soup packs a nutritional punch. Based on the ingredients provided, a serving can offer approximately:
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 10g (mostly from olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Vitamin C: 5% of daily value (from garlic and lemon)
Garlic soup is low in calories and can easily fit into many dietary regimens.
How Do You Store the Leftovers?
Storing garlic soup is easy. Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to eat, reheat on the stove or microwave until warmed through.
What Sides Would Complement Garlic Soup?
To elevate your meal, consider these side dishes that marry well with garlic soup:
- Caprese Salad: This Italian classic, with fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes, provides a refreshing contrast to the garlic soup. It brings a tangy element that rounds out the meal beautifully.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil creates a delightful crunch. The freshness of the toppings balances the warm soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: A plate of roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots makes for a hearty side. The caramelization enhances their natural sweetness and pairs wonderfully with the soup.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
Life is unpredictable. If you find yourself short on a few ingredients, don’t fret! Here are some alternatives:
- Garlic: If fresh garlic is unavailable, garlic powder can work. Use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove, but the flavor will differ slightly.
- Thyme: Fresh thyme can be replaced with dried thyme. Use about a third of the amount, as dried herbs are more potent.
- Eggs: For a vegan version, replace eggs with 1/4 cup of pureed silken tofu mixed with a dash of salt for creaminess.
- Parmesan: Nutritional yeast can replace grated Parmigiano-Reggiano for a vegan alternative, offering a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Conclusion
Making garlic soup is more than just following a recipe; it’s a delightful experience filled with warmth, flavor, and love. This dish bridges generations and brings people together, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy solo dinner.
I encourage you to embrace the simplicity of its preparation and the richness of its flavors. Each encounter with garlic soup is an invitation to savor life’s simplest joys. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and let the aroma fill your kitchen. Happy cooking!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
Garlic Soup – Simple Easy Meals
There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of garlic soup. It’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket after a long day. Growing up, my nonna made this soup whenever anyone felt under the weather.
It wasn’t just about warding off colds; it was about love, care, and the magic of simple ingredients. For many, garlic soup is a beloved tradition, a recipe steeped in history, and a remedy for any ailment.
Today, I'm excited to share my take on this classic dish that has been a staple in countless households. You’ll find that it’s not only easy to make but incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, want something comforting, or simply wish to impress at dinner, this soup is your ticket.
Ingredients
For the binding pommade:
To serve:
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
-
Start by bringing your 6 cups of filtered water to a boil. Add in the sage leaves and bay leaf. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes. This creates a fragrant herbal base that sets the stage for your soup.
Step 2: Add the Garlic
-
Once your broth is infused, stir in the garlic (all 12 cloves!) along with the fresh thyme and salt. Allow it to simmer for another 15 minutes. The garlic will become tender and start to release its aromatic oils into the broth. Your kitchen will smell incredible at this point!
Step 3: Create the Binding Pomade
-
While the broth is simmering, it’s time to make the binding pommade. In a small bowl, combine the egg yolks and the whole egg. Whisk them together with the black pepper and the freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. This mixture will thicken the soup and add a decadent creaminess.
Step 4: Combine Everything
-
Remove the broth from heat. Take out the sage leaves and bay leaf. Gradually stir in the egg mixture into the hot broth. It’s essential to do this slowly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Stir until everything is combined, and you see a beautiful cohesion in the soup.
Step 5: Final Touches
-
Drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil and stir in the lemon zest for a citrusy brightness that elevates the flavors. Adjust salt to your taste, if needed. This step is crucial; the olive oil adds richness, while the lemon zest brings a lively pop.
Step 6: Serve
-
Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with fresh parsley and drizzle extra olive oil for that finishing touch. Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy each warm bite!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 150kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 10g16%
- Total Carbohydrate 12g4%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Protein 7g15%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic is key. It brings a vibrant flavor that garlic powder simply can't replicate.
- Quality Olive Oil: Invest in a high-quality extra virgin olive oil. It does wonders for flavor.
- Experiment with Herbs: If you're feeling adventurous, try adding yarrow or dill for new flavor dimensions.
- Creamier Texture: For a richer texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving. This thickens it beautifully.
- Make It Ahead: Garlic soup can be made a day in advance. This allows the flavors to deepen and develop overnight. Just reheat before serving.
