Country French Garlic Soup

This rustic Country French Garlic Soup (Soupe à l’Ail) is warm, comforting, and full of old-world flavor. Made with slow-simmered garlic, herbs, and a rich broth, it’s simple yet incredibly satisfying—perfect for cold evenings or when you need a soothing, nourishing bowl of goodness. Traditionally served with toasted bread and melted cheese, it’s a cozy classic you’ll want to make again and again.

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⭐ Ingredients

• 3 whole garlic heads (about 25–30 cloves), peeled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few fresh sprigs)
• 1–2 bay leaves
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, brightens the flavor)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Gruyère, Swiss, or Parmesan cheese
• Crusty bread, sliced and toasted

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⭐ Instructions

1. Sauté the garlic

Add olive oil to a large pot over medium heat.
Add the peeled garlic cloves and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until softened and lightly golden.
(Be careful not to burn them—the goal is gentle caramelization.)

2. Add onions and herbs

Add the sliced onion and cook for another 5 minutes until translucent.
Stir in thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.

3. Simmer the soup

Pour in the chicken broth.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen and the garlic to become very soft.

4. Create the traditional egg-thickened broth

In a separate bowl, beat the 2 eggs.
Take a ladle of the hot broth and slowly whisk it into the eggs to temper them.
Then pour the egg mixture back into the soup, whisking gently.
This gives the soup a silky, rich texture.

(Do not boil after adding eggs—just warm.)

5. Add lemon and adjust seasoning

Stir in a little lemon juice if desired.
Taste and adjust salt and pepper.

6. Serve with cheesy toast

Place toasted bread slices in bowls.
Sprinkle generously with Gruyère or Parmesan.
Pour the hot garlic soup over the bread so it melts the cheese and softens the toast.

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⭐ Tips & Variations

• Add a splash of white wine with the onions for extra depth.
• Blend part of the soup for a creamier texture.
• Add roasted garlic instead of sautéed for a deeper, sweeter flavor.
• Top with fresh parsley for color and freshness.

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