This classic garlic soup is rich, warming, and deeply flavorful. Made with lots of slow-cooked garlic, onions, broth, and bread, it’s a comforting old-world recipe often enjoyed during cold seasons.
Ingredients
- 50 garlic cloves, peeled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large onions, finely diced
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 3 cups stale bread, diced (rustic or crusty bread works best)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional:
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the garlic
Peel all the garlic cloves. You can leave them whole or lightly crush them for a stronger garlic flavor. - Sauté the aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the diced onions and cook for 5–7 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add the garlic cloves and cook gently for another 2–3 minutes, stirring often. Do not brown the garlic. - Add the broth
Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf if using.
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes. The garlic should become very soft and fragrant. - Add the bread
Stir in the diced stale bread. Let the soup simmer for another 10–15 minutes, allowing the bread to absorb the broth and naturally thicken the soup. - Blend or mash (optional)
For a smooth soup, blend using an immersion blender until creamy.
For a rustic texture, lightly mash with a spoon or potato masher and leave some chunks. - Season
Add salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf. - Serve
Ladle hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Add an egg yolk per serving (stirred in off heat) for a richer, traditional touch
- Drizzle with extra olive oil before serving
- Add a pinch of paprika or thyme for depth
- Serve with toasted bread or croutons for extra texture
Why People Love This Soup
- Deep, comforting garlic flavor
- Simple pantry ingredients
- Naturally thick and satisfying
- Warming and soothing during cold weather