Warm up with this velvety French Garlic Soup, a regional specialty from the South of France thickened with a surprising ingredient! This delightful dish is perfect for cozy evenings, offering warmth and comfort. Its rich garlic flavor combined with a creamy texture makes it an exceptional choice for gatherings, dinner parties, or even a quiet night in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and sage gives this soup a unique depth that warms your soul.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in just 25 minutes.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a starter or pair it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Low in carbs and high in flavor, this soup fits well into various diets.
- Elegant Presentation: Garnish with olive oil, smoked paprika, and parsley for a beautiful finish that impresses.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing your French Garlic Soup easy and enjoyable. Below is a list of essential tools you’ll need to create this comforting dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or stock pot
- Sharp knife
- Small saucepan
- Fork
- Immersion blender
- Small jar (for mayonnaise)
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Dutch oven or stock pot: Perfect for simmering the chicken stock evenly without burning.
- Immersion blender: This handy tool allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot for a smooth texture without transferring to another container.
- Sharp knife: Essential for easily peeling and preparing garlic cloves.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 64 ounces chicken stock
- small bunch fresh sage
- 1 large head of garlic
For the Creamy Emulsion
- 2/3 cup olive oil, or other vegetable oil you prefer
- 1 large egg, separated
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- pinch salt
How to Make French Garlic Soup
Step 1: Heat the Stock
Heat the chicken stock and sage in a large Dutch oven or stock pot. Bring to a simmer and then simmer very gently while you prep your garlic.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic
Remove the skins from the garlic cloves and slice them in half lengthwise. Remove the little embryonic shoot; these can be bitter. Use the tip of a sharp knife or toothpick to pry them out and discard.
Step 3: Boil the Garlic Cloves
Bring a small saucepan of water to a boil and add the garlic cloves. Boil for 3-4 minutes. Drain the cloves.
Step 4: Mash the Garlic
Use the back of a fork to mash the softened garlic until finely mashed. Add this mashed garlic to your stock and continue to gently simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Make Mayonnaise
Put the egg yolk, mustard, salt, and olive oil in a small jar, just wide enough for your immersion blender. Reserve the egg white for later use if needed. Blend at the bottom of the jar, gently lifting to emulsify all contents. If it doesn’t thicken instantly, add egg white and blend again.
Step 6: Strain (Optional)
If desired, strain your soup at this point for a velvety smooth texture. Return strained soup back into pot.
Step 7: Combine Soup with Mayonnaise
Take a ladle-full of hot soup and stir it into your mayonnaise to temper it. Immediately stir this mixture back into your soup pot while whisking.
Step 8: Reheat Gently
Return soup to stove and heat until warm but do not let it boil as this risks curdling.
Step 9: Serve
Serve with crusty croutons, an extra drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, and fresh parsley if desired.
Enjoy your deliciously comforting French Garlic Soup!
How to Serve French Garlic Soup
French Garlic Soup is not just a dish but an experience that warms your soul. Here are some delightful ways to serve this comforting soup.
Crusty Croutons
- Add homemade or store-bought croutons for a satisfying crunch. Toast them in olive oil with garlic and herbs for extra flavor.
Extra Drizzle of Olive Oil
- A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the richness of the soup. Use it just before serving for the best effect.
Smoked Paprika
- Sprinkle smoked paprika on top for a pop of color and a hint of smoky flavor that complements the garlic beautifully.
Fresh Parsley
- Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness and color. It also adds a mild herbal note to each bowl.
Side Salad
- Serve alongside a light side salad for a complete meal. A simple green salad with vinaigrette works well to balance the richness.
Baguette Slices
- Offer slices of crusty baguette on the side for dipping. They soak up the flavors and make each bite satisfying.
How to Perfect French Garlic Soup
To elevate your French Garlic Soup, consider these helpful tips.
Use fresh garlic: Fresh cloves provide superior flavor compared to pre-minced garlic. The taste will be more vibrant and aromatic.
Adjust seasoning: Always taste before serving. You may want to add more salt or pepper based on your preferences.
Strain for smoothness: If you prefer an ultra-smooth texture, strain the soup after blending. This step creates that velvety consistency.
Add herbs wisely: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary, which can add depth and complexity to your soup.
Serve warm, not boiling: Heat the soup gently before serving. Boiling can curdle the mayonnaise, so keep it at a gentle simmer.
Make ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Consider preparing it in advance and storing it in the fridge overnight.
Best Side Dishes for French Garlic Soup
Pairing side dishes with French Garlic Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
Goat Cheese Tart: A flaky tart filled with creamy goat cheese adds elegance and pairs nicely with the garlic flavor.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness and complement the savory notes of the soup.
Cheese Platter: Offering a variety of cheeses allows guests to create their own pairings, enhancing flavors enjoyed in each bite.
Savory Galette: A rustic galette filled with seasonal vegetables provides a hearty accompaniment that pairs well with soup.
Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats filled with herbs and cheese offer delightful bursts of flavor alongside your soup.
Antipasto Skewers: Skewers loaded with olives, salami, and cheese create an appealing presentation that pairs well with any soup course.
Focaccia Bread: Soft, herb-infused focaccia is perfect for dipping into your flavorful garlic soup while adding another layer of texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making French Garlic Soup can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes might hinder your results.
- Ignoring the garlic prep: Properly preparing the garlic is essential. Always remove the skins and the bitter shoots for a smoother taste.
- Boiling the soup too hard: Simmering is key to preventing curdling. Keep the heat low after adding mayonnaise to maintain a velvety texture.
- Skipping the straining step: While optional, straining the soup can enhance its creamy consistency. Don’t skip this if you prefer a smoother soup.
- Underestimating seasoning: A pinch of salt can make a difference. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust seasonings accordingly.
- Not using fresh herbs: Fresh sage elevates the flavor of French Garlic Soup. Dried herbs won’t provide the same vibrant taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it.
Freezing French Garlic Soup
- Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
Reheating French Garlic Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
- Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is French Garlic Soup?
French Garlic Soup is a creamy, flavorful dish that highlights garlic as its main ingredient, often thickened with homemade mayonnaise.
How do I make French Garlic Soup vegetarian?
You can substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock for a vegetarian version of this comforting soup.
Can I make French Garlic Soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat before serving.
What should I serve with French Garlic Soup?
Crusty bread or croutons pair perfectly with this warm and hearty soup, adding texture and flavor.
Can I customize my French Garlic Soup?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like leeks or potatoes for extra body and flavor according to your tastes.
Final Thoughts
French Garlic Soup offers warmth and comfort, making it perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors are versatile, allowing you to customize it with various ingredients. Try this recipe today and enjoy its delightful simplicity!
French Garlic Soup
Warm up with this velvety French Garlic Soup, a delightful regional specialty from the South of France. This comforting dish combines the rich flavors of garlic and sage, creating a creamy texture that’s perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this elegant soup that’s not only easy to make but also pairs beautifully with crusty bread or croutons, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Garnished with olive oil and smoked paprika, it’s sure to impress your guests while providing a heartwarming culinary experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
- 64 ounces chicken stock
- 1 large head of garlic
- small bunch fresh sage
- 2/3 cup olive oil (or preferred vegetable oil)
- 1 large egg (separated)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- pinch salt
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven, heat the chicken stock and sage until simmering gently.
- Peel and halve the garlic cloves, removing any bitter shoots.
- Boil the garlic in water for 3-4 minutes, then mash it finely.
- Add mashed garlic to the stock and simmer for another 10 minutes.
- In a small jar, combine egg yolk, mustard, salt, and olive oil. Blend with an immersion blender until emulsified.
- Optional: Strain the soup for a smoother texture.
- Temper the mayonnaise by mixing it with a ladle of hot soup before stirring it back into the pot.
- Reheat gently without boiling before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 530mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 62mg
