Easy Garlic Soup Recipe

I absolutely love this cozy soup recipe because it transforms simple, pantry-friendly ingredients into a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. The aromatic garlic and savory spices elevate this humble concoction, while the swirl of eggs adds a delightful texture that makes each spoonful irresistibly satisfying.

Making this Easy Garlic Soup, which is both comforting and aromatic, is something I love to do. With six cloves of garlic and the faintest hint of smoked paprika, this soup’s got a punchy flavor.

And with olive oil and chicken (or vegetable) broth, combined with cubed bread and eggs, it makes for a very hearty, very fast meal.

Ingredients

Garlic: Strengthens the immune system; is rich in antioxidants; and adds aromatic flavor.

Heart-healthy fats, rich in antioxidants, enhance taste and make olive oil a good part of any diet.

Providing depth, hydration, and a savory base, broth is the very essence of a soup.

Loaf: Contributes to the supply of carbs, tends to thicken caldron liquids, and delivers a heartier mouthfeel.

Paprika, when smoked, adds depth and complexity to flavors.

Its richness and color enhance whatever dish it graces.

Eggs are a source of protein; they add creaminess; they enrich the texture.

Parsley: Revitalizes tastes, brings a dynamic hue, and has a wealth of nutrients.

Ingredient Quantities

• 6 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup bread, cubed (preferably stale bread)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. In a big saucepan, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Stir in the smashed garlic cloves and cook, stirring often, until they are golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Don’t let the garlic clove or the oil get too hot.

2. Incorporate the dried thyme and smoked paprika into the pot with the garlic, stirring well to combine and permitting the spices to steep for around 1 minute.

3. Add the chicken or vegetable broth and heat the mixture until it just simmers.

4. After the broth is simmering, add the bread, cut into cubes, to the pot. Stir to make sure that the pieces of bread are well coated and submerged in the broth.

5. Lower the heat and let the soup simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring now and then until the bread softens and breaks down.

6. Use a handheld immersion blender or a whisk to break up the bread and garlic in the soup further until it is slightly thickened.

7. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You can use a salt grinder or the more common method of adding salt directly. If you use a salt grinder, hold it over the pot and turn the handle a few times. A few comments on the ingredients:

8. In a small bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Slowly drizzle the eggs into the soup that is simmering. Stir gently to create ribbons of cooked egg throughout the soup.

9. Let the soup simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes for the eggs to finish cooking and become an integral part of the dish.

10. Enjoy the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley and, if you’re feeling particularly fancy, some grated Parmesan cheese. Both are excellent ways to give the soup a little something extra in terms of both taste and appearance.

Equipment Needed

1. Large saucepan
2. Wooden spoon or spatula
3. Measuring cups and spoons
4. Knife
5. Cutting board
6. Immersion blender or whisk
7. Small bowl
8. Salt grinder (optional)
9. Cheese grater (optional, for Parmesan)
10. Ladle

FAQ

• Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread? Yes, you can use fresh bread, but stale bread is traditionally used for its texture and ability to absorb flavors better.
• Is there a substitute for smoked paprika? You can use regular paprika or leave it out if you don’t have smoked paprika, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
• How do I make this soup vegetarian? Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the soup vegetarian.
• Can I make the soup ahead of time? Yes, the soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
• What’s the best way to crush the garlic cloves? A garlic press is ideal, but you can also finely chop the cloves or smash them under a knife and then chop to release their flavor.
• How should I serve this garlic soup? Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired. It pairs well with a simple green salad or extra bread on the side.
• Can I add other vegetables to this soup? Absolutely! Chopped onions or leeks can add depth, and spinach or kale tossed in at the end can provide extra nutrition.

Substitutions and Variations

Garlic that has been peeled can be replaced with either 1 teaspoon of garlic powder or 2 teaspoons of minced garlic that comes from a jar.
Sunflower oil or another mild vegetable oil can be used in place of olive oil.
Equal amounts of water and a bouillon cube or powder can take the place of chicken or vegetable broth.
Dried thyme can be substituted with either dried oregano or Italian seasoning.
You can substitute regular paprika for smoked paprika, but the smoky flavor won’t be there.

Pro Tips

1. Infuse the Oil with Flavor Before adding the garlic, consider infusing the olive oil with some whole thyme sprigs or a bay leaf. This will add an additional layer of flavor to the base of your soup.

2. Use Stale Bread for Texture Ensure the bread used is sufficiently stale. Fresh bread might dissolve too quickly and could alter the intended texture of the soup. Stale bread helps achieve the right consistency as it absorbs the broth better.

3. Control Egg Consistency When drizzling in the beaten eggs, consider using a fork or a whisk to create finer streams. This will help you achieve more delicate egg ribbons throughout the soup.

4. Enhance with Additional Herbs Besides parsley, you might experiment by adding a small amount of finely chopped fresh basil or oregano for variety, especially if using tomato-based accompaniments.

5. Finish with Acidity and Spice Just before serving, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of vinegar to brighten the flavors. For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can also be added alongside the salt and pepper.