Garlic soup

Garlic Soup - a culinary journey full of flavor and comfort

Who doesn't love a warm and aromatic soup that warms the soul? Garlic soup is a traditional recipe, rich in flavors and nutritional benefits, that combines simple ingredients to create a comforting dish. This soup is not only delicious but also an excellent choice in the cold season or on days when you need a boost of energy.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 1 head of garlic (about 10-12 cloves)
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 root parsley (or 1 small parsley)
- 2 small onions
- 200 g potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes)
- 50 g butter
- 1 large glass of milk (about 250 ml)
- 100 ml cream
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1/2 green bell pepper
- 1 fresh tomato
- 100 g chanterelles (or other mushrooms of your choice)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the garlic. Cut off the top of the head and remove the skin. If you want a milder flavor, you can soak the garlic cloves in warm water for a few minutes. This will make peeling easier.

2. Chopping the vegetables: Peel the carrots, parsley, potatoes, and onions. Cut the carrots and parsley into small cubes, and the onion into scales. The potatoes can be cut into cubes of about 1 cm for even cooking. The red and green bell peppers are sliced into strips, and the tomato is finely chopped. If using chanterelles or other mushrooms, make sure they are cleaned and cut into small pieces.

3. Sautéing the garlic: In a large pot, add the butter and place it over medium heat. When the butter has melted, add the garlic cloves and sauté for 2-3 minutes. The garlic should turn golden, but do not let it burn, as it will become bitter.

4. Adding the vegetables: Once the garlic is sautéed, add all the chopped vegetables: carrots, parsley, onion, potatoes, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Mix well and let them sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step will intensify the flavors and give the soup a wonderful texture.

5. Boiling the soup: After the vegetables have softened, add water until all ingredients are covered. You can use about 1.5 liters of water. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes or until the vegetables are cooked.

6. Finishing the soup: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the milk and cream, stirring well to achieve a creamy consistency. Let the soup cook for another 5 minutes, but no longer, to avoid boiling the cream.

7. Serving: Finally, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Pour the soup into bowls, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top, and serve hot. You can add toasted bread croutons for a crunchy texture.

Practical tips:

- Fresh garlic: Always choose fresh garlic for a more intense flavor. Old or dried garlic can significantly reduce the taste of the soup.
- Vegan option: If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can replace the milk with almond or soy milk and the cream with a plant-based yogurt.
- Adding protein: To make the soup more filling, you can add diced chicken or boiled chickpeas. These will enrich the soup with protein and provide a more complete meal.
- Exotic flavors: Experiment with spices like cumin or sweet paprika to give the soup a distinctive note.

Nutritional benefits:

Garlic soup is not only tasty but also extremely beneficial for health. Garlic is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, playing an important role in strengthening the immune system. The vegetables in the soup add fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals to the body, making this recipe a nutritious and healthy dish.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I add other vegetables?
Of course! You can experiment with the vegetables you like the most. Celery, zucchini, or pumpkin are excellent additions.

2. How can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze it as well to have it on hand for busy days.

3. What can I accompany the soup with?
This soup pairs perfectly with homemade bread, croutons, or a fresh salad. You can enjoy it alongside a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

The garlic soup recipe is a perfect choice for a light dinner or a comforting lunch. Its intense and rich aroma will make every bite a true pleasure. Experiment with the ingredients and adapt the recipe to your preferences to create a personalized soup that will become a family favorite! Enjoy every moment of the preparation and the joy of authentic taste!