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Savory French Garlic Soup

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Rich, rustic, and loaded with garlic, this traditional French soup is soothing, aromatic, and perfect for chilly nights or when you need a cozy, immune-boosting bowl.

Ingredients

64 ounces (8 cups) chicken stock (or vegetable stock for vegetarian version)

1 large head of garlic, cloves separated and peeled

⅔ cup olive oil (or other neutral vegetable oil)

Optional additions:

12 bay leaves

1 sprig fresh thyme or ½ tsp dried thyme

Salt and pepper, to taste

Sliced crusty bread, for serving

Grated Parmesan or Gruyère (optional topping)

2 beaten eggs, for egg-drop style finish (optional)

Instructions

Prep Garlic:
Peel the garlic cloves (you can blanch them in hot water for 30 seconds to make peeling easier). Slice or lightly crush if desired for more flavor.

Sauté Garlic:
In a large pot over medium-low heat, warm the olive oil. Add garlic cloves and gently cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fragrant (not browned or burnt).

Add Stock & Simmer:
Pour in chicken stock. Add bay leaves, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes.

Blend (Optional):
For a smooth soup, remove bay leaves and blend the mixture with an immersion blender until creamy.
For a rustic version, leave the garlic whole or mash lightly.

Egg Drop Finish (Optional):
While simmering, slowly drizzle in the beaten eggs while stirring to create delicate egg ribbons.

Serve:
Ladle into bowls and top with crusty bread or grated cheese if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

Use roasted garlic for a sweeter, more mellow flavor.

Add leeks or onions for more depth.

Make it vegan by using vegetable broth and skipping the cheese and eggs.

This soup also pairs wonderfully with a poached egg on top for added richness.