This Country French Garlic Soup is a rustic and flavorful dish that showcases the humble garlic in all its glory. Simple yet elegant, this soup is deeply aromatic, comforting, and perfect for a cozy meal. Paired with crusty bread, it’s a recipe that brings the heartwarming flavors of French countryside cooking to your table.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 heads garlic (about 20 cloves), peeled and minced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups water

• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley or thyme, croutons, grated Parmesan

Why You’ll Love This Soup

• Flavor-Packed: Garlic becomes mellow and sweet when cooked, creating a deliciously complex broth.
• Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together in a dish that feels sophisticated.
• Comforting and Nutritious: Garlic is known for its health benefits, making this soup both satisfying and wholesome.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with cream or extra herbs for your personal twist.

How to Make Country French Garlic Soup

1. Sauté the Garlic and Onion

• Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and cook gently for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
• Stir in the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.

2. Build the Broth

• Add the chicken broth, water, and bay leaf to the pot.
• Stir to combine and bring the soup to a gentle boil.

3. Simmer the Soup

• Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes. This allows the garlic and onion to infuse the broth with their flavors.

4. Season and Serve

• Remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
• Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, thyme, croutons, or grated Parmesan if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the fragrant broth.
• Soft Cheese: Pair the soup with a side of creamy brie or goat cheese.
• Simple Salad: A fresh green salad balances the richness of the garlic soup.

Tips for the Best Garlic Soup

1. Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh, high-quality garlic ensures the best flavor.
2. Avoid Burning: Cook the garlic gently to bring out its sweetness without bitterness.
3. Optional Creaminess: For a richer soup, stir in ½ cup of cream or a dollop of crème fraîche just before serving.
4. Add More Herbs: Thyme or rosemary sprigs can add an extra layer of flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Final Thoughts

This Country French Garlic Soup is a simple yet extraordinary dish that proves the magic of classic, rustic recipes. Whether you’re serving it as a starter, a light lunch, or alongside a crusty baguette for dinner, it’s a guaranteed hit for garlic lovers.

Let me know how yours turns out—don’t forget to share your photos and your favorite additions to the recipe! 🧄✨