Garlic soup, a beloved culinary treasure from the south of France, is a symphony of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the soul. This classic Provençal dish, also known as "Soupe à l'Ail" or "Aïgo Boulido" in the Occitan language, is a testament to the region's rich culinary heritage. With its humble origins in peasant kitchens, garlic soup has evolved into a sophisticated delicacy, gracing the menus of renowned restaurants worldwide. In this article, we present a collection of three distinct garlic soup recipes, each offering a unique interpretation of this timeless classic. From the traditional Provençal version featuring a luscious broth brimming with garlic, croutons, and a hint of saffron, to a modern take infused with the vibrant flavors of roasted red peppers and a touch of cream, these recipes cater to diverse palates and culinary preferences. Additionally, we venture beyond the borders of France to explore an Italian-inspired garlic soup enriched with the nutty flavor of white beans and the aromatic essence of rosemary, sage, and thyme. Whether you seek a comforting bowl of soup to ward off the winter chill or a delightful dish to impress your dinner guests, our carefully curated selection of garlic soup recipes promises an unforgettable culinary experience.
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PROVENçAL GARLIC SOUP (AïGO BOULIDO)
Translating in Provencal dialect as "boiled water", the Aïgo Boulido is an unassuming broth of garlic and sage, enriched with eggs. It is delicately aromatic and believed to have powerful curative properties. This soup is widely consumed in the South of France to aid digestion, ward off winter ills, as a detox soup after days of feasting - and as a salving cure for hangovers too. The Origins of the Aïgo Boulido Anchored in the peasant food traditions of Provence, the Aïgo Boulido was born from making use of humble...
Provided by Audrey
Categories Appetizers
Time 35m
Yield 2
Number Of Ingredients 1
Steps:
- Step 1 - Peel the garlic cloves. In a pot, bring 1 liter of water to a boil. Dump in the whole garlic cloves, sage and bay leaves. Simmer for about 15 minutes (lid off), until the garlic has softened.
- Step 2 - With a slotted spoon, remove the garlic cloves from the water and place them in a bowl. Mash them using the back of a fork until you reach a paste consistency. Mix in 1 tablespoon (15ml) of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
- Return the garlic to the broth, and reduce for 15 more minutes. Pass the broth through a fine-meshed strainer and return it to the pot. Bring to a low simmer again.
- Step 3 - Place egg whites in a small bowl and whisk with a fork to loosen (if using whole eggs, whisk them until blended). Slowly pour the beaten egg whites (or eggs) into the simmering broth, whisking them with a fork as you pour. Do not stop whisking until the eggs are cooked and appear as stringy egg drops. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Turn off the heat.
- Step 4 - Divide the cheese evenly onto the 2 slices of bread and pass them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- For serving, pour the Aïgo Boulido into each bowl and top with a slice of bread.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 200, Fat 20 grams
GARLIC SOUP
Do not be intimidated by the amount of garlic in this fragrant, creamy soup. The bulk of the garlic is slow cooked first in oil and then with broth to bring out the sweetness and downplay the sharpness of raw garlic. A touch of bread and sour cream adds body and richness and lightly fried sliced garlic, as a garnish, adds a final crisp touch of garlic flavor.
Provided by Food Network Kitchen
Time 1h10m
Yield 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the smashed garlic and onion and cook, stirring, until soft and lightly golden, about 8 minutes. Add the wine, thyme, bay leaf, 1/2 teaspoon salt, pepper to taste and the cheese rind. Bring to a simmer and cook until reduced by half, about 5 minutes. Add 5 cups water, reduce the heat to low and bring to a gentle simmer; cook until the garlic is very soft, about 30 minutes. Remove from the heat, add the bread and let soak, 10 minutes.
- Remove the thyme, bay leaf and cheese rind from the saucepan; stir in the grated cheese, sour cream and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Transfer the soup to a blender in batches and puree until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine the remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil, the sliced garlic and a pinch of salt in a skillet over low heat; cook until the garlic is golden and crisp, 12 to 15 minutes.
- Divide the soup among bowls. Top with the fried garlic, some of the garlic oil, and dill.
GARLIC SOUP (SOUPE A L'AIL)
Bon Appetit, May 1994. This is a healthier version than many garlic soup recipes. This is a popular soup throughout France.
Provided by swissms
Categories Potato
Time 30m
Yield 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- Combine first 4 ingredients in medium saucepan. Bring to boil. Cover, reduce heat to low and simmer until vegetables are tender, about 25 minutes. Puree in batches in blender. Season with salt and pepper. Rewarm over medium heat. Drizzle with cream, if desired.
SOUPE A L'AIL AUX POMMES DE TERRE - SAFFRON FLAVORED GARLIC SOUP
Adaption from original recipe in Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child, Louisette Bertholle and Simone Beck.
Provided by Queen Dana
Categories Potato
Time 1h35m
Yield 6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- Remove excess layers of paper from head of garlic and slice off the very top of head. Place on aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, cover and roast at 400 F for about 30 mins or until garlic becomes soft.
- In a 3 qt sauce pan saute shallots. Combine all the ingredients in the same sauce pan except for the potatoes, cream and saffron. Bring the soup to a boil and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Use an immersion hand blender to puree the soup (or run through a food processor).
- Add the potatoes, cream and saffron to the soup and simmer for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Divide the soup into 6 oven safe bowls and top with french bread. Sprinkle cheese on top of the bread and broil until the cheese begins to brown. Serve while warm.
Tips for Making the Best Soupe à l'Ail:
- Use fresh garlic: The fresher the garlic, the more flavorful the soup will be.
- Roast the garlic: Roasting the garlic mellows its flavor and makes it more digestible.
- Use a variety of mushrooms: Different types of mushrooms will add different flavors and textures to the soup.
- Don't overcrowd the pot: If you add too much garlic or mushrooms to the pot, they will not cook evenly.
- Simmer the soup gently: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer gently for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to develop.
- Serve the soup hot: Soupe à l'ail is best served hot, with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives.
Conclusion:
Soupe à l'ail is a delicious and versatile soup that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a great way to use up leftover garlic and mushrooms, and it is also a healthy and affordable meal. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, soupe à l'ail is sure to please.
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