Step 1: Prepare the Garlic

  • Peel 12 to 15 garlic cloves. To make peeling easier, blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then cool and slip off the skins.
  • If you prefer a milder flavor, roast the garlic beforehand at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes until golden and soft. This step caramelizes the garlic and brings out its sweetness.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add the sliced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the garlic cloves and cook gently for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent browning.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

  • Pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable stock.
  • Add the thyme sprigs and bay leaf.
  • Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the garlic is tender and has infused the broth.

Step 4: Blend the Soup

  • Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf from the pot.
  • Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth. Return the soup to the pot.

Step 5: Enrich with Cream and Egg Yolks

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and heavy cream.
  • Temper the mixture by adding a ladle of hot soup to the bowl while whisking continuously. This prevents the eggs from curdling.
  • Gradually stir the tempered mixture back into the soup, ensuring a silky texture.
  • Heat gently for 2 to 3 minutes without boiling.

Step 6: Prepare the Bread Topping

  • While the soup simmers, slice the stale baguette or rustic bread and toast the slices until golden.
  • Rub each slice with a cut garlic clove for extra flavor, then sprinkle with grated Gruyère or Parmesan cheese.
  • Place the slices under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve the Soup

  • Ladle the soup into bowls and float a slice of cheesy bread on top of each serving.
  • Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper, or chopped fresh herbs for a touch of color.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Soup:

  1. Balance the Garlic Flavor: If you’re concerned about the soup being too strong, use a mix of roasted and fresh garlic to balance the flavor.
  2. Choose Quality Ingredients: Since the soup relies on simple components, use high-quality stock, fresh garlic, and artisan bread.
  3. Make It Ahead: The flavors deepen and improve if the soup is made a day ahead and reheated gently before serving.

Why You’ll Love It

Country French Garlic Soup is the epitome of rustic comfort food. It’s rich in flavor but light on the stomach, making it ideal as an appetizer or a main course with a simple green salad. The golden cheesy toast adds texture and indulgence to every bite. Plus, the garlic’s immune-boosting properties make it a perfect remedy for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Enjoy this timeless French classic that proves delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated!