Mediterranean Country French Garlic Soup
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4–6
This Mediterranean Country French Garlic Soup is a comforting and aromatic soup that showcases garlic in a rich, creamy, and flavorful broth. Slow-roasting garlic mellows its bite and brings out a natural sweetness, while fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese add depth and savoriness. Served with crusty bread for dipping, this soup is perfect as a starter or a light, satisfying meal on a chilly evening.
Ingredients
2 whole heads of garlic, peeled
2 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and black pepper, to taste
4 egg yolks
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Crusty bread, for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Roast the Garlic
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle the peeled garlic heads with olive oil and wrap them in foil. Roast for 20–25 minutes, or until the garlic is soft and golden.
Sauté the Onion
In a large pot, put olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
Add Garlic and Broth
Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from their skins into the pot and stir with the onions. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, add thyme sprigs and bay leaves, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Prepare the Egg-Parmesan Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Temper the Egg Mixture
Remove the soup from heat slightly. Slowly add a ladle of hot soup into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Then gradually stir the tempered mixture back into the pot.
Finish the Soup
Return the pot to low heat and cook gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the soup thickens slightly. Do not boil, or the eggs may curdle.
Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping.
Tips & Variations
Roasting Garlic:
Roasting garlic mellows its sharpness and brings out a natural sweetness. Make sure the garlic is soft and golden before adding it to the soup. You can roast extra cloves and store them for other recipes.
Onion Options:
Yellow or white onions work best for a slightly sweet flavor. Shallots can be used for a more delicate, nuanced taste.
Broth Choices:
Chicken broth gives a richer flavor, while vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian. For extra depth, use homemade broth or low-sodium broth so you can control seasoning.
Herbs Variations:
Thyme and bay leaves are classic, but you can also try rosemary, sage, or a touch of oregano for a different Mediterranean note. Remove sprigs before serving.
Egg Yolk Tempering:
Temper the egg yolks carefully by slowly whisking in hot soup before adding them back to the pot. This ensures a creamy texture without curdling.
Cheese Options:
Parmesan adds a nutty, savory flavor. Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can be used as alternatives.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with crusty bread, garlic croutons, or even a slice of baguette lightly toasted with olive oil. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top adds richness.
Make-Ahead Tip:
You can roast the garlic and prepare the soup base a day ahead. Reheat gently and temper the egg mixture just before serving for best results.
Add-Ins (Optional):
For a heartier soup, stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a few cooked white beans toward the end of cooking.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and the soup remains rich and flavorful.
Q: Can I skip the egg yolks?
You can, but the yolks add a creamy texture and body to the soup. Without them, the soup will be more broth-like.
Q: How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat and stir well before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
It is not recommended to freeze after adding egg yolks, as the eggs may curdle. You can freeze the broth and roasted garlic separately and add egg mixture when ready to serve.
Q: Can I add more flavor to the soup?
Yes. A splash of white wine while sautéing onions, or a pinch of smoked paprika, can deepen the flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme can also be added as a garnish.
Nutrition
(Per Serving – Approx. 1½ cups)
Calories: 210 kcal
Protein: 9 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fat: 16 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sodium: 580 mg
For a lighter version, reduce the butter and cheese, or use low-fat milk instead of cream in the egg mixture.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Country French Garlic Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that highlights the sweet, mellow taste of roasted garlic in a creamy, herby broth. Easy to prepare yet elegant, it’s perfect as a starter or a light meal. Paired with crusty bread, it delivers warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful, making it a classic Mediterranean-inspired favorite for any occasion.