Garlic soup with flavored croutons

Garlic soup with flavored croutons – a simple and delicious recipe

If you are looking for a soup recipe that will delight your taste buds and provide a sense of comfort, garlic soup with flavored croutons is the perfect choice! This soup is not only easy to prepare but also extremely affordable, using ingredients that you likely always have in your pantry. The intense aroma of garlic combined with the crunchy texture of the croutons will turn any meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.

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

Ingredients needed for the soup:

- 6 large cloves of garlic
- 1.5 liters of water
- 3 vegetable stock cubes
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch (heaped)
- 4 tablespoons of oil (olive or sunflower)
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of pepper paste or thick tomato sauce (optional)
- A few sprigs of fresh dill

Ingredients for the croutons:

- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 10-15 slices of bread (preferably day-old, sliced)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Dried oregano or thyme (optional)

For serving:

- A little sour cream
- A few pieces of cheese

The history of garlic soup

Garlic soup is a classic dish found in many culinary cultures. Garlic has been known since ancient times for its medicinal properties and intense flavor. Throughout history, this soup has been appreciated not only for its taste but also for its health benefits, often used as a remedy for colds and other ailments. So, not only will you enjoy a delicious meal, but you'll also gain a health boost!

Preparation method:

1. Preparing the garlic: Peel the 6 cloves of garlic and lightly crush them with a knife or garlic press. This method will release more of their intense aroma and flavor.

2. Preparing the soup: In a large pot, add 1.5 liters of water and the vegetable stock cubes. Put it on the heat and wait for it to boil.

3. Sautéing the garlic: Meanwhile, in a skillet, add 4 tablespoons of oil and the crushed garlic cloves. Cook them over low heat, stirring continuously, for 1 minute. The goal is to coat them in oil without browning them. This step will intensify the garlic aroma in the soup.

4. Combining the ingredients: Once the water has started to boil, add the oil with garlic to the pot with the soup. Let it simmer over medium heat for 15-20 minutes for the flavors to blend perfectly.

5. Thickening the soup: Near the end, dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a little cold water and pour the mixture into the pot. Stir well and check the taste; add salt and pepper to your preference. If you want a splash of color and a more complex flavor, you can also add 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika and, optionally, 1 tablespoon of pepper paste or thick tomato sauce. Let it boil together for another 10 minutes.

6. Finishing the soup: Turn off the heat and add the chopped dill. This will add a touch of freshness and complete the soup's aroma.

Preparing the croutons:

1. Cutting the bread: Cut the slices of bread into small cubes, about 1.5 cm.

2. Seasoning the croutons: In a baking tray lined with parchment paper, arrange the bread cubes in a single layer. Add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, and desired spices (oregano or thyme). Mix well to ensure all bread cubes are evenly coated.

3. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the croutons turn golden and crispy.

Serving:

Serve the garlic soup hot, adding the flavored croutons on top. If desired, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream and a few pieces of cheese for extra flavor. This soup is perfect for a light dinner or as an appetizer in a meal with friends and family.

Useful tips:

- Use fresh garlic to achieve an intense aroma. Dried or granulated garlic will not provide the same depth of flavor.
- If you are looking for a vegan option, make sure to use a vegetable stock without animal-derived ingredients.
- You can experiment with different herbs, such as basil or parsley, to add another level of complexity to the soup.
- This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a recipe for bruschetta with tomatoes and basil.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use roasted garlic instead of fresh garlic?
It is recommended to use fresh garlic to achieve the characteristic aroma, but you can use roasted garlic, keeping in mind that it will add a sweeter note.

2. How can I store the soup?
Garlic soup can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. The croutons can be stored separately to avoid getting soggy.

3. Is this a healthy recipe?
Yes, garlic soup is rich in antioxidants due to garlic, and the croutons add a boost of complex carbohydrates, providing a balanced meal.

4. What drinks pair well with this soup?
An excellent choice would be a dry white wine or fresh lemonade. Additionally, a pale beer can complement the flavors of the soup very well.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! This garlic soup with flavored croutons will surely delight you and bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!