Garlic and Herb Soup

There is nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Garlic and Herb Soup wafting through the kitchen on a cool afternoon. This soup is a masterclass in balance, taking the naturally pungent nature of garlic and transforming it into a mellow, sweet foundation. Combined with the earthy depth of fresh leeks and a trio of aromatic herbs, it creates a soothing bowl that feels like a warm hug for the soul.

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Preparation is simple, requiring only basic pantry staples and fresh herbs. The secret lies in the gentle cooking of the aromatics, allowing the flavors to meld into a creamy, cohesive texture that doesn't rely heavily on thickeners. Whether you prefer it silky smooth or slightly rustic, this soup is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Ingredients

• Vegetables
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 large leek, white and light green parts only, sliced
• 10 large garlic cloves, peeled and sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• Liquids
• 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable broth (gluten-free if needed)
• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk or unsweetened plant-based milk
• Herbs
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, plus extra for garnish
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• Fats & Seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional Garnish
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (omit or use vegan alternative for dairy-free)
• Croutons or toasted gluten-free bread

Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and leek; sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened but not browned.

Step 2

Add the sliced garlic and cook gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring often to avoid burning.

Step 3

Stir in the potatoes, thyme, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for 2 minutes.

Step 4

Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, until potatoes are tender.

Step 5

Remove from heat. Stir in the milk and most of the parsley and chives (reserve a little for garnish).

Step 6

Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth, or leave slightly chunky if preferred. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 7

Ladle into bowls. Garnish with remaining herbs and, if desired, grated Parmesan and croutons.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For an exceptionally smooth texture, pass the puréed soup through a fine-mesh sieve. If you find the soup too thick after blending, add a splash more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency. Be careful not to brown the garlic in the early stages, as this can introduce a bitter taste to the delicate broth.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly adaptable. To make it vegan, simply use your favorite unsweetened plant-based milk and substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative. If you are looking for a more indulgent version, replacing half of the milk with heavy cream creates a luxurious, velvety mouthfeel.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this aromatic soup with a side of warm, crusty sourdough bread or gluten-free rolls to soak up every drop. For a complete dining experience, pair it with a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc, which beautifully complements the fresh herbal notes of thyme and chives.

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Whether you are seeking a light starter for a dinner party or a restorative meal on a quiet night in, this Garlic and Herb Soup is a timeless choice. Its simplicity allows the high-quality ingredients to shine, proving that sometimes the most basic components create the most memorable meals. Enjoy your homemade bowl of comfort!

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, simply substitute the whole milk with unsweetened plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or soy. Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative for garnish.

→ How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook the garlic gently over medium heat and stir often during the 2-3 minute sautéing period. The garlic should soften and become fragrant without browning, which can create bitterness.

→ Can I use different herbs?

Absolutely. While thyme, parsley, and chives work beautifully, you can experiment with rosemary, sage, or basil. Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used in smaller quantities.

→ What consistency should I aim for?

You can blend the soup until completely smooth for a velvety texture, or leave it slightly chunky for a more rustic feel. Use an immersion blender for easy control over the final consistency.

→ How can I make this soup richer?

For added richness, replace half of the milk with heavy cream or add a tablespoon of butter when sautéing. You can also swirl in a dollop of crème fraîche or sour cream when serving.

→ What should I serve alongside this soup?

Crusty bread, gluten-free rolls, or homemade croutons complement the soup wonderfully. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light salad makes it a complete meal.