This Country French Garlic Soup is a warm and velvety dish that showcases the bold yet comforting flavor of garlic. Enhanced with thyme, a touch of cream, and hearty potatoes, it’s the perfect soup for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something rustic and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The heavy cream adds a luxurious texture to the soup.
• Rustic and Simple: A handful of humble ingredients combine for a deeply flavorful dish.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Garlic offers health benefits while delivering bold flavor.
• Perfect for Any Meal: Enjoy as a starter or pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp (1 ounce) olive oil: For sautéing the onion and garlic.
• 1 small onion, chopped (about 1 cup): Adds sweetness and depth.
• 1 cup minced garlic (about 10 cloves): The star of the show, offering bold, aromatic flavor.

• 4 cups (32 ounces) chicken broth: The base for a rich and savory soup.
• 1 large potato, washed and chopped (about 1 cup): Adds body and creaminess to the soup.
• 1/2 cup (4 ounces) heavy cream: For a velvety finish.
• 1 tsp dry thyme: A classic French herb that pairs beautifully with garlic.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Blender or immersion blender
• Measuring cups and spoons

How to Make Country French Garlic Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, until softened and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Potato

1. Pour in the chicken broth and add the chopped potato, thyme, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

1. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a countertop blender, work in batches to blend the soup, then return it to the pot.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, if needed.

Step 4: Add the Cream

1. Stir in the heavy cream and heat the soup gently over low heat for 2–3 minutes, being careful not to let it boil.

Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme, cracked black pepper, or a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Serve warm with crusty French bread or a side salad.

Tips for the Best Garlic Soup

• Don’t Burn the Garlic: Keep the heat low to medium when cooking garlic to avoid bitterness.
• Use Fresh Thyme: Substitute dried thyme with fresh thyme for a brighter flavor, if available.
• Add a Splash of White Wine: Deglaze the pan with a little dry white wine before adding the broth for extra depth.
• For a Thicker Soup: Add an extra potato or reduce the broth slightly.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Gruyère or Parmesan cheese at the end for a cheesy flavor.
• Roasted Garlic: Roast the garlic cloves before adding them to the soup for a milder, sweeter flavor.
• Herbaceous Additions: Add fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness.

What to Serve with Country French Garlic Soup

• Crusty Bread: French baguette, sourdough, or garlic bread for dipping.
• Side Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use roasted garlic instead of fresh?

Yes! Roasting the garlic will give the soup a sweeter, milder flavor. Use about 1 1/2 cups of roasted garlic cloves for this recipe.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely! Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your chicken broth is gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Sugar: 4g

Final Thoughts

This Country French Garlic Soup is the perfect blend of rustic simplicity and rich flavors. With its creamy texture and aromatic notes of garlic and thyme, it’s a dish that warms both the heart and the soul.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your photos on Instagram or Pinterest, and let me know if you added your own creative twist.

Bon appétit! 🥖🧄✨