Garlic Soup Recipe

Garlic soup, also known as sopa de ajo in Spain, is a dish that marries bold, earthy flavors with the comforting qualities of a traditional soup. Often regarded as a humble meal, garlic soup has roots in Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine, where it’s cherished not only for its rich, savory taste but also for its health benefits. Whether you’re battling a cold or simply craving something warm and hearty, garlic soup is an incredible way to enjoy the potent and aromatic goodness of garlic in a way that comforts the soul.

Garlic has been celebrated for centuries, not only as a culinary staple but also for its medicinal properties. It’s packed with antioxidants and nutrients, such as vitamin C, manganese, and selenium, that are believed to boost immunity, promote heart health, and have anti-inflammatory effects. So, in addition to being delicious, garlic soup may just be a natural remedy your body will thank you for.

Now, let’s dive into the recipe-trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

Garlic Soup Recipe

This recipe is a straightforward, flavorful take on garlic soup, blending the boldness of garlic with the warmth of broth and the depth of rustic ingredients. It’s perfect for any time of year but particularly comforting during the colder months. While garlic may seem like the star of the show, the rich broth, subtle undertones of paprika, and the addition of eggs make it incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients Needed

• Garlic (10-12 cloves) – Fresh, peeled garlic is key to bringing out the full flavor in the soup. You can adjust the amount based on how bold you want the garlic flavor to be.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons) – A high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness to the base.
• Onion (1 medium, diced) – The onion provides sweetness and depth to balance the garlic’s intensity.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Either sweet or smoked paprika works, lending an earthy, smoky flavor to the soup.
• Vegetable or chicken broth (4 cups) – Broth is the heart of the soup, providing the savory base. Choose a low-sodium version if you want to control the salt content.
• Eggs (2 large) – Eggs are a traditional addition, poached directly in the broth for extra creaminess and texture.
• Crusty bread (2-3 slices) – This is to help thicken the soup and provide a hearty texture.
• Salt & Pepper – To taste, for balancing the flavors.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients: Start by peeling and smashing the garlic cloves with the side of a knife. Dice the onion and set the broth aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent.
3. Add the Garlic and Paprika: Toss the smashed garlic into the pot and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic to release its fragrance. Stir in the paprika, and cook for an additional minute to bring out the smoky flavors.
4. Add the Broth: Pour in the broth, stir well, and bring it to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the garlic to infuse the broth and soften.
5. Add the Bread: Tear the crusty bread into small pieces and add it to the pot. Let the bread soak for 3-4 minutes, helping to thicken the soup.
6. Poach the Eggs: Gently crack the eggs into the soup, spacing them evenly apart. Cover the pot with a lid and let the eggs cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny.
7. Season & Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring that each portion has a poached egg. Serve immediately, with additional crusty bread on the side for dipping.

Ingredient Insights

• Garlic: The central ingredient, garlic, is not just a flavor powerhouse but also offers remarkable health benefits. It contains allicin, a sulfur compound that is believed to have antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. The longer the garlic is cooked, the milder and more nuanced its flavor becomes, making it perfect for soups.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is a healthy fat that not only enhances the flavor of the dish but also adds richness and smoothness to the soup. It’s packed with monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
• Paprika: Paprika adds depth and a mild smokiness to the soup. It is made from dried and ground peppers, and depending on the variety, can range from sweet to hot. If you prefer a milder flavor, sweet paprika is perfect, while smoked paprika will bring a more complex, charred note.
• Eggs: Adding eggs to the soup brings a luxurious element, with their yolks enriching the broth as they cook. The eggs are typically poached directly in the soup, giving it a creamy texture without needing to add any dairy.

Expert Tips

• Control the Garlic Flavor: If you’re not a fan of the intense raw flavor of garlic, you can roast the garlic before adding it to the soup. Roasting mellows the garlic, making it sweeter and less pungent.
• Bread Choice: Crusty bread is the traditional choice because it soaks up the broth while maintaining its texture. Avoid using soft, sandwich bread, as it’ll dissolve too quickly and won’t give the soup the right consistency.
• Spice It Up: For a little extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small chopped chili to the soup. It pairs wonderfully with the smoky paprika and brings a new level of complexity to the dish.
• Broth Variations: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, vegetable broth is a great option. For a more robust flavor, you can use chicken broth or even beef broth if you’re not concerned about keeping the dish plant-based.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan Version: Swap out the eggs for tofu or chickpea flour scrambled ’eggs’ to keep it plant-based. Use vegetable broth and ensure the bread is dairy-free.
• Spicy Garlic Soup: Add chili flakes, or use hot smoked paprika in place of the sweet variety for a spicier version. You could even top the soup with a dollop of harissa or your favorite hot sauce to intensify the heat.
• Herb-Infused Garlic Soup: Add a sprig of thyme, rosemary, or bay leaf to the broth for a more aromatic experience. Fresh herbs give the soup an additional layer of flavor without overpowering the garlic.
• Spanish Influence: For a more authentic Spanish version, add chorizo or serrano ham to the soup. These cured meats add a savory, umami-rich depth that’s perfect for garlic soup enthusiasts.

Final Words

Garlic soup is an incredibly versatile dish. It’s rich in flavor, deeply comforting, and can be modified to suit various dietary preferences or to highlight different regional tastes. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity-just a few key ingredients come together to create something heartwarming and satisfying.

Whether you enjoy it as a restorative meal on a chilly evening or as a way to make use of extra garlic in your kitchen, this garlic soup is bound to become a go-to recipe. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that only improves with time, so feel free to make a big batch and enjoy it over several days.