Garlic cream soup with sour cream

Garlic cream soup with sour cream: a warm hug in every spoon

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

In a world full of quick and easy recipes, garlic cream soup with sour cream shines like a gem, offering not only a delicious taste but also numerous nutritional benefits. This simple recipe is not just a comforting dish, but also an excellent way to incorporate garlic, an ingredient with antibacterial and antioxidant properties, into your diet. Let's discover together how to prepare it and some useful tips for achieving the perfect soup!

Ingredients needed

- 1 liter chicken broth or water (for a vegetarian option, use water or vegetable broth)
- 50 g butter (for a more intense flavor, you can use salted butter)
- 2 tablespoons flour (to thicken the soup)
- 10 garlic cloves (helps with intense flavor and health benefits)
- 5 medium potatoes (approximately 600 g, which add creaminess)
- 100 ml sweet cream (you can use plant-based cream for a vegan option)
- Croutons (for added texture)
- Grated cheese (for a savory taste, optional)
- Chopped parsley (for garnish and flavor)
- Pepper and salt (to taste)

Step by step: Preparing the soup

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the potatoes well and peeling them. Cut them into cubes of about 1-2 cm, so they cook evenly. Also, peel the garlic cloves and slice them thinly.

2. Melting the butter: In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat. Don’t rush, you want to ensure it melts evenly without burning, to preserve the delicate flavor of the butter.

3. Cooking the flour: Add the 2 tablespoons of flour to the pot and mix well with a wooden spoon. Let the flour cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it becomes slightly golden. This step helps eliminate the raw flour taste and adds a pleasant aroma.

4. Adding the liquid: Gradually add the chicken broth or water, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture becomes smooth.

5. Cooking the potatoes: Add the potato cubes to the pot and let the soup boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very soft.

6. Potato puree: Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the potatoes in the soup. This will add a creamy and smooth texture. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can leave a few chunks of potato unblended.

7. Adding the garlic: Add the sliced garlic cloves to the soup and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes. The garlic will add a strong and delicious flavor, but make sure not to overcook it to avoid a bitter taste.

8. Finalizing the soup: Remove the pot from the heat and add the sweet cream. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper to your liking.

9. Serving: Transfer the soup to bowls and garnish with crunchy croutons, grated cheese, and freshly chopped parsley. This not only adds a beautiful appearance but also an extra flavor and texture.

Serving suggestions and variations

To transform this soup into an unforgettable culinary experience, you can experiment with various toppings. Instead of croutons, you can add roasted pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts for a crunchy note. Also, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top will bring an extra flavor.

If you want a spicier version, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or a few drops of Tabasco sauce. Another delicious variation is to add fresh herbs, such as dill or basil, instead of parsley.

Nutritional benefits

Garlic cream soup with sour cream is not only delicious but also healthy! Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to strengthen the immune system. Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy, while the cream adds a dose of healthy fats.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
While it is possible, the taste will not be as intense and fresh as that of fresh garlic. We recommend using fresh garlic for the best results.

2. Can the soup be frozen?
Yes! This soup freezes very well. Make sure to place it in an airtight container, leaving space for expansion. When you're ready to consume it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it over low heat.

3. What other recipes can I make with garlic?
Garlic pairs wonderfully in various dishes, from sauces and marinades to different types of meat and roasted vegetables. A classic recipe is aioli sauce, which can be served alongside fresh vegetables or seafood.

Conclusion

Garlic cream soup with sour cream is more than just a simple soup; it is a flavorful and healthy choice that can bring comfort on cold days. With every spoonful, you will enjoy the intense flavor of garlic and the creamy texture of potatoes. Feel free to customize it according to your preferences and the ingredients you have on hand. Try this recipe today and treat yourself and your loved ones to an unforgettable culinary experience!