© Original Recipe By The Cozy Crumb ©
Creamy French Garlic Soup 🥣🧄✨
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a warm, comforting dish that highlights the rich flavors of garlic, then this French garlic soup recipe is perfect for you. Often called a veloute, this creamy garlic soup combines the fragrant aroma of roasted garlic with a smooth, velvety texture that will warm your soul. Whether you’re looking for an elegant starter or a cozy main, this garlic soup recipe is a delightful addition to any meal plan.
2. Ingredients for Creamy French Garlic Soup
- 2 heads of garlic (about 12 cloves), roasted
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for dairy-free version
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
- Crusty bread for serving
3. How to Make Veloute: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the tops off the garlic heads, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for about 40 minutes until the cloves are caramelized and soft. Roasting brings out a sweeter, milder garlic flavor that will elevate this garlic soup recipe.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
While the garlic is roasting, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This forms a flavorful base for the soup.
Step 3: Add Roasted Garlic
Once the garlic is roasted and cool enough to handle, squeeze out the softened cloves into the pot. Stir well to combine with the sautéed onions.
Step 4: Pour in Broth and Simmer
Add 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Puree the Soup
Using an immersion blender or regular blender, puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, blend in batches and return the soup to the pot. This step creates the creamy, veloute texture characteristic of velouté.
Step 6: Incorporate Cream and Butter
Stir in the heavy cream and butter. Warm gently, but do not boil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. For a dairy-free or vegan option, substitute with coconut cream or oat milk.
Step 7: Serve with Garnishes and Bread
Pour the creamy garlic soup into bowls, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, and serve alongside warm crusty bread. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this classic French velouté.
4. Storage Tips for this French Garlic Soup
Leftover garlic soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve its silky texture. For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. When reheating, stir well and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a light arugula salad with vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
- Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of quality olive oil for extra richness.
- Use this garlic veloute as a base for adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty twist.
- Complement with a glass of chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this French garlic soup vegan?
Yes, substitute the heavy cream and butter with coconut cream or plant-based alternatives such as cashew cream. Use vegetable broth to keep it vegan-friendly.
How long does it take to prepare this garlic veloute?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 1 hour, including roasting the garlic and simmering the soup.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of roasted garlic?
While fresh garlic can be used, roasting brings out a sweeter, milder flavor that enhances the soup’s richness. If using fresh garlic, sauté it with onions for more aroma.
What are good accompaniments for garlic soup?
Crusty bread, a simple green salad, and a crisp white wine make excellent accompaniments for this veloute.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for roasting garlic quickly and evenly, saving time and effort.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures you have reliable pots for sautéing and simmering.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer – Easily prepare complementary sides like garlic bread or roasted vegetables.
- Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker – Enjoy a perfect coffee pairing with your meal.
8. Conclusion
This French garlic soup is a delightful veloute that showcases the aromatic, sweet flavors of roasted garlic in a creamy, comforting blend. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a perfect starter or main course for chilly evenings or special occasions. Incorporate this garlic soup recipe into your culinary repertoire and enjoy the authentic taste of France in your own kitchen!
9. Final thoughts
With its rich flavor profile and velvety texture, this garlic veloute is sure to become a favorite among garlic lovers and soup enthusiasts alike. Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings and accompaniments to make it uniquely yours. Happy cooking!
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Creamy French Garlic Soup
A rich, velvety garlic soup with a smooth, creamy texture, seasoned with herbs and topped with fresh parsley.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Baguette slices, for serving
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and chopped onion; cook until fragrant and translucent.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and accompanied by baguette slices.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a vegan version.
- For a thicker soup, reduce the broth or add a splash of cream during blending.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
