Description
Country French Garlic Soup is a smooth, comforting soup made with tender garlic cloves simmered in flavorful chicken stock and fresh sage. Emulsified with egg and olive oil, this rustic classic delivers rich creaminess without cream, perfect for garlic lovers seeking a cozy, elegant starter or light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup
- 1 head of garlic, cloves separated and peeled
- 6 cups chicken stock (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 2 fresh sage leaves
Emulsion
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic: Slice the peeled garlic cloves in half lengthwise. If the cloves are large, slice them into thirds or quarters to ensure even cooking.
- Make the Broth: In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced garlic, chicken stock, and sage leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently for about 15 minutes, or until the garlic becomes tender. Remove and discard the sage leaves.
- Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer the hot mixture to a blender, blend until completely smooth, then return it to the pot. Keep the soup warm over low heat.
- Prepare the Emulsion: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and extra virgin olive oil until fully emulsified, forming a creamy mixture.
- Thicken the Soup: Gradually whisk the egg and oil emulsion into the warm soup. Stir continuously over low heat until the soup thickens slightly. Be careful not to let the soup boil in this step to avoid curdling the egg.
- Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with homemade croutons or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth.
- Do not boil the soup after adding the egg emulsion to prevent curdling.
- Use an immersion blender for ease or a regular blender, but be cautious when blending hot liquid.
- Fresh sage adds authentic flavor, but it can be omitted or substituted with thyme if unavailable.
- If desired, garnish with toasted bread cubes or fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
