Garlic soup

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

Who doesn't love a warm and comforting soup, especially on cool autumn or winter days? Garlic soup with vegetables is not only a delicious dish but also one packed with health benefits. Garlic, known for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, brings a unique and comforting flavor that will transform an ordinary meal into a true feast.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Essential ingredients:

- 1 head of garlic
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsley root (or celery)
- 2 small onions
- 200 g potatoes
- 50 g butter
- 1 large glass of milk
- 100 ml sour cream
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1/2 green bell pepper
- 1 tomato
- 100 g chanterelles (or other mushrooms)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

A bit of history

Garlic soup is a dish that has crossed generations, being part of the culinary traditions of many cultures. It is known for how it combines simple yet intense flavors and for its ability to be customized based on available ingredients. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, this soup brings a sense of warmth and familiarity to every home.

Preparing garlic soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the garlic, then melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic cloves and let them sauté gently until golden and fragrant. This step will release the essential oils from the garlic, giving the soup a rich flavor.

2. Chopping the vegetables: Clean and wash the carrots, parsley, onion, potatoes, and peppers well. Cut all the vegetables into small cubes for even cooking. If you choose fresh mushrooms, clean them and slice them thinly.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: Add all the chopped vegetables to the pot with garlic and sauté them together for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You can add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

4. Boiling the soup: Once the vegetables have softened slightly, add enough water to cover the ingredients. Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes or until all the vegetables are cooked and tender.

5. Adding milk and sour cream: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the milk and sour cream. Stir well to achieve a creamy texture. If desired, you can use an immersion blender for a smoother soup.

6. Finalizing the dish: Add the diced tomato and mushrooms to the soup, allowing them to simmer for another 5 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings to your liking.

7. Serving: Pour the soup into deep bowls, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and if desired, add a few drops of olive oil for extra flavor. This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of toasted bread or crunchy croutons.

Helpful tips for a perfect result:

- Use fresh garlic, as it has a stronger and more pleasant flavor.
- You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or broccoli, to add a different note to the soup.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, you can add chopped fresh chili or a pinch of paprika.

Delicious variations:

- Garlic soup with polenta: Serve the soup with a portion of warm polenta to create a contrast of textures.
- Garlic soup with cheese croutons: Prepare croutons from toasted bread, drizzled with olive oil and grated cheese, to add a crunchy note.
- Garlic soup with sausages: Add a few slices of smoked sausage for extra flavor and richness.

Nutritional benefits:

This garlic soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, with a low calorie content, making it ideal for a balanced diet. Garlic is known for its antioxidant properties, while the vegetables provide an important supply of fiber, vitamins A, C, and K.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can garlic soup be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it is recommended to do so without sour cream. Add the sour cream after thawing.
- How can I make the soup spicier? I recommend adding fresh or ground chili peppers, depending on your preferences.
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but it’s best to let them thaw before adding them to the soup.

This garlic soup with vegetables and sour cream is not just a simple dish, but also a recipe that brings joy and warmth to every bowl. Enjoy it with loved ones and let yourself be carried away by its delightful flavors! Enjoy your meal!