Garlic cream soup

Garlic cream soup – a quick, comforting dish full of flavors, perfect for days when you seek culinary comfort with minimal effort. This simple recipe is ideal not only for those who want a delicious meal in a short time but also for those who wish to enjoy the health benefits of garlic. Whether you prepare it for a quick dinner or to impress guests, this soup will surely win you over.

Total time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 heads of garlic
- 1 large onion
- 3 medium potatoes
- 200 ml cooking cream
- 200 ml milk
- 500 ml water
- Salt, to taste
- White pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for sautéing
- Croutons, for serving

A brief story about garlic cream soup:
Over time, garlic has been considered not just a culinary ingredient but also a natural remedy for various ailments. This soup has been especially appreciated in the cold season, often referred to as "vampire-repelling soup" due to its immune-boosting power. However, don't worry, the intense smell of garlic won't linger on you, making this soup a perfect choice for anyone.

Preparation techniques:
1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Peel the garlic, making sure to remove all the skins. An effective method is to lightly hit the heads with the blade of a knife, which will make the skin come off more easily.
- Cut the onion into large pieces, as we will use the blender later and it doesn't need to be finely chopped.
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into uniform cubes for even cooking.

2. Making the soup:
- In a pot, add a few tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the onion over medium heat. Let it become translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the peeled and halved garlic. Sauté it with the onion for another 2 minutes, being careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can spoil the soup's taste.
- Add the potato cubes and mix well. Pour in the water and let the soup boil over medium heat for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft enough.

3. Transforming into cream:
- Once the potatoes are cooked, add the milk, salt, and white pepper. Let it boil for another 2-3 minutes.
- Using a hand blender, puree everything until you achieve a smooth and homogeneous cream. If you don't have a hand blender, you can use a countertop blender, but make sure the soup has cooled slightly before blending.
- In a bowl, add the cream and pour a bit of the hot soup over it, stirring constantly to homogenize. This step is essential as it helps prevent the cream from curdling.

4. Finishing and serving:
- Pour the cream mixture back into the pot and mix well. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve the garlic cream soup hot, garnished with crispy croutons and a drizzle of olive oil. For an extra flavor boost, you can add crispy bacon or grated parmesan on top.

Practical tips:
- If you want an even more aromatic version, try adding some fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme during the cooking process.
- You can experiment with the cream, using a vegan alternative like coconut or soy cream for a lighter version.
- If you're a fan of spicy soups, feel free to add a pinch of chili powder or a few drops of chili sauce to the dish.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This garlic cream soup offers about 250 calories per serving, depending on the amount of cream used. Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, positively impacting the immune system. Additionally, potatoes provide a significant amount of healthy carbohydrates, while milk and cream contribute protein and calcium.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use roasted garlic instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, but the taste will be different, and the soup will have a sweeter flavor.

- What other ingredients can I add?
You can experiment with vegetables like carrots or celery, or even add ingredients like feta cheese for a salty taste.

- How can I store the soup?
The soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little milk to restore its creaminess.

This garlic cream soup is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. With each spoonful, you'll feel the warmth and comfort that only a good soup can provide. Enjoy it alongside a slice of toasted bread and a fresh salad for a complete and delicious meal!