If you are searching for an authentically rustic dish that celebrates the simple beauty of fresh ingredients, look no further than this Country French Garlic Soup. This heartwarming recipe hails straight from the soulful kitchens of the French countryside, where simmering pots of garlicky broth turn humble staples into magic. Creamy yet light, with layers of mellow garlic, buttery undertones, and a beguiling silkiness from egg yolks and Parmesan, every sip feels like a hug from Provence. Whether you want to cozy up on a chilly night or impress guests with something timeless and full of character, Country French Garlic Soup will transport your senses to sun-washed villages with each savory spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This classic soup comes together with a short list of kitchen staples, each one bringing something unique to the pot. Don’t skimp on quality—every ingredient in Country French Garlic Soup plays a starring role, from the fresh garlic to the rich cheese.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds fruity richness that helps carry all those gorgeous garlic aromas.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Lends a velvety mouthfeel and a subtle touch of luxury to the base.
- Peeled garlic cloves (3 cups, about 3 bulbs): The heart and soul of this soup, offering depth and sweetness after slow cooking.
- Large yellow onion (1, sliced): Enhances the broth’s natural sweetness and rounds out the garlic’s boldness.
- Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (6 cups): Forms the flavorful background, so choose a broth you’d happily sip solo.
- Crusty day-old bread (1 cup, cubed): Thickens the soup and provides rustic body; a wonderful way to use up loaves on their last legs.
- Large egg yolks (4): Deliver that signature silkiness and transform the soup into something extraordinary.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Brings a nutty, savory finish and a hint of saltiness.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for fine-tuning all the nuanced flavors.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish): Offers color, freshness, and a dash of herbal brightness right before serving.
How to Make Country French Garlic Soup
Step 1: Gently Cook the Garlic and Onion
Start by heating the olive oil and butter together in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the mountain of peeled garlic and let it cook gently for about 10–12 minutes, stirring often. The goal isn’t to brown the garlic, but to coax out its mellow sweetness until it’s soft and light golden. Once that heady aroma fills your kitchen, add the sliced onion and cook for another 5–7 minutes, stirring now and then, until the onion turns translucent and irresistibly fragrant.
Step 2: Simmer the Broth
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, scraping up any bits sticking to the bottom. Raise the heat to bring it all to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Leave it uncovered for 20 minutes, letting the flavors deepen and mingle while your kitchen becomes the coziest place in the house.
Step 3: Add Bread and Blend
Toss in the cubes of day-old bread and simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes. The bread softens and nearly dissolves, giving Country French Garlic Soup its characteristic farmhouse body. Next, purée the soup until smooth using an immersion blender right in the pot, or carefully transfer batches to a countertop blender. Once everything is velvety, return it to low heat.
Step 4: Temper and Add Egg Yolks
In a small bowl, whisk your egg yolks. Ladle a bit of hot soup into the yolks, whisking constantly to temper and prevent curdling. Now, pour this yolk mixture back into the pot, stirring gently as the soup turns even silkier. Cook for another 2–3 minutes on low—do not let it boil at this point, as you want a creamy soup, not scrambled eggs!
Step 5: Finish With Parmesan and Season
Stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and dreamy, then season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Give it a final taste—you’ll know when it’s perfect. Country French Garlic Soup is now ready to dazzle!
How to Serve Country French Garlic Soup
Garnishes
A final flourish of fresh chopped parsley adds color and a breath of herbaceous freshness to every bowl. I also love to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan over the top for even more savory depth—there’s something irresistible about the cheese melting into that steamy soup!
Side Dishes
Country French Garlic Soup shines as both a starter and a main. Pair it with a leafy green salad tossed in a sharp vinaigrette to cut through the soup’s richness, or serve with thick slices of toasted baguette ready to dunk. Roasted vegetables or a simple cheese plate also work beautifully, making any meal feel like an occasion in a provincial farmhouse.
Creative Ways to Present
For a chic dinner party, try ladling the soup into small cups or ramekins as part of an appetizer course. It’s also stunning served in a rustic bread bowl or topped with a drizzle of good olive oil and a scatter of microgreens. Feel free to experiment—you can make Country French Garlic Soup as casual or elegant as you wish!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Country French Garlic Soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container, and don’t be surprised if the flavors become even more magical after a night of mingling—garlic has a way of deepening in deliciousness!
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this soup, though it’s best to freeze before adding the egg yolks and Parmesan for optimal texture. Cool the soup completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to two months. When ready to serve, reheat gently and finish with the yolks and cheese as directed.
Reheating
Warm leftover soup slowly over low heat, stirring frequently. If it’s thickened up too much, stir in a splash of broth or water. Avoid letting it boil once egg yolks are in, as gentle heat preserves the soup’s creamy silkiness.
FAQs
Can I use pre-minced garlic from a jar?
For best results, stick with fresh, whole garlic cloves. Pre-minced garlic doesn’t offer the same sweetness and depth of flavor that real Country French Garlic Soup needs to shine.
Is this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely—as long as you opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken. Everything else in Country French Garlic Soup is naturally vegetarian-friendly and full of plant-based comfort.
Can I make this soup vegan?
With a few clever swaps—think olive oil instead of butter, plant-based Parmesan, and omitting the egg yolks—you can still create a luscious, garlicky soup. It won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll be satisfying and deeply flavorful.
What’s the best bread for this recipe?
Day-old rustic country bread, French baguette, or any thick-crusted loaf works best. Bread adds structure and old-world heartiness, so choose something flavorful yet sturdy.
How do I avoid the egg yolks turning into scrambled eggs?
Tempering is key! Slowly introduce warm soup to the yolks while whisking, then add the yolk mixture back gradually, always keeping the heat low. Stir constantly, and never let the soup boil once the yolks are in.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience the soul-soothing comfort and timeless appeal of Country French Garlic Soup. Whether you’re feeding family or savoring a moment of cozy solitude, this recipe brings a little French countryside magic to any table. Give it a try—you’ll want to make it again and again!
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Country French Garlic Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Warm up with a bowl of comforting Country French Garlic Soup. This rustic soup is rich with the flavors of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and hearty bread, making it a perfect choice for a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Garlic Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cups peeled garlic cloves (about 3 bulbs)
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup crusty day-old bread, cubed
Additional Ingredients:
- 4 large egg yolks
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic and Onion: Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot. Add garlic, cook until soft. Add onion and cook until translucent.
- Simmer: Pour in broth, simmer for 20 minutes. Add bread and simmer until softened.
- Purée: Use immersion blender or regular blender to purée soup until smooth. Return to low heat.
- Temper Egg Yolks: Whisk yolks, add hot soup gradually, then return mixture to pot. Cook gently.
- Finish: Stir in Parmesan, season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Notes
- Use high-quality garlic for best flavor.
- Roasting garlic beforehand enhances sweetness.
- Pair soup with crusty bread or a simple salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
