Country French Garlic Soup

Name: Country French Garlic Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 heads of garlic; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your kitchen with the rich, comforting aroma of Country French Garlic Soup. This velvety soup features roasted garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of wine, making it the perfect starter or a delightful meal on its own. Serve it with crusty bread for a truly authentic experience that captures the essence of rustic French cooking.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2025-11-27T06:24:35.551Z

This soup is a beloved classic in French kitchens, cherished for its simplicity and deep flavors. The warm, earthy tones of roasted garlic combined with fresh herbs create a magical dish that warms the soul.

A Rustic Delight

Country French Garlic Soup is a classic dish that encapsulates the heart of rustic French cuisine. Its rich, hearty flavor is a testament to the beautiful simplicity of country cooking. Roasting the garlic elevates its natural sweetness, creating a smooth and velvety texture that's hard to resist. This soup is not just food; it’s an experience that transports you to the quaint villages of France, where cooking is all about freshness and warmth.

What makes this soup truly delightful is its straightforward preparation process. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that impresses both family and friends. The blend of roasted garlic and fresh herbs brings a robust flavor profile, while a splash of white wine adds a subtle complexity. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings or a peaceful evening at home, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Health Benefits of Garlic

Garlic is not only delicious but also packed with numerous health benefits. Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic is rich in antioxidants and has been linked to reducing the risk of heart disease. Including garlic in your diet may help lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. Furthermore, the unique compounds in garlic are known to support overall health, making this soup a nutritious choice.

The combination of garlic with fresh herbs like thyme further enhances its health benefits. Thyme is known for its antimicrobial properties and is rich in vitamins and minerals. Together, these ingredients create not only a delightful flavor but also a nourishing bowl of soup that warms the body and soul, perfect for chilly evenings.

Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

Ingredients for Country French Garlic Soup

2 heads of garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup dry white wine
2 sprigs fresh thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all your ingredients before starting.

Instructions

Prepare the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the tops off the garlic heads, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes until soft.

Sauté the Onions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the roasted garlic (squeezed out of the skins), vegetable broth, white wine, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Remove the thyme sprigs and blend the soup with an immersion blender until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy with crusty bread!

Make sure to enjoy your soup while it's fresh and hot!

Tips for Perfecting Your Garlic Soup

To ensure your Country French Garlic Soup is flavorful, use high-quality ingredients. Fresh garlic, good-quality olive oil, and a dry white wine you would enjoy drinking will translate to a better soup. Additionally, consider experimenting with herbs. Adding fresh basil or a dash of rosemary can introduce new layers of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.

Timing is key when it comes to roasting garlic. Monitor it closely as it cooks to prevent burning; it should emerge soft and caramelized after 30-35 minutes. If you want a deeper flavor, let it roast a bit longer, keeping an eye on it. The ideal garlic should be creamy and spreadable, allowing it to blend seamlessly into your soup.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Country French Garlic Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For best results, allow the soup to cool completely before sealing the container. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup has thickened too much during storage.

If you want to extend the shelf life of your soup, consider freezing it. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual. This makes for a quick and satisfying meal whenever you’re short on time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, simply omit the heavy cream or substitute with coconut cream, and use vegetable broth.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.