Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent. Avoid browning.
3. Warm the Garlic
Add roasted (or raw) garlic cloves to the pot. Stir gently for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant. Do not brown.
4. Create the Soup Base
Add bread cubes and stir until coated. Pour in hot broth and add herb sprigs. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until bread fully softens and thickens the soup.
5. Blend Until Creamy
Remove herb sprigs. Blend with an immersion blender until completely smooth and velvety. Thin with extra broth if needed.
6. Season and Serve
Season generously with salt and black pepper. Ladle into warm bowls and finish with olive oil, cheese, or croutons if desired.
Pro Tips
- Roasting garlic creates deeper sweetness and prevents bitterness
- Use stale bread — it thickens naturally without becoming gummy
- Season at the end; garlic soup needs more salt than expected
- Avoid boiling after blending to maintain smooth texture
- A splash of warm broth helps adjust consistency perfectly
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegan: Use vegetable broth and skip cheese
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread or substitute ¼ cup cooked white beans
- Extra Rich: Add a soft-poached egg on top
- Herb Swap: Use rosemary or bay leaf instead of thyme
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes
Serving, Pairing & Storage
Serve with:
- Simple green salad
- Crusty bread
- Soft cheese plate
Storage:
- Refrigerate up to 4 days
- Reheat gently over low heat
Freezing:
- Freeze up to 2 months without toppings
- Thaw overnight and reheat slowly
FAQ
Will this soup taste overpoweringly garlicky?
No — slow cooking turns garlic sweet and mellow.
Can I use fewer cloves?
You can, but the depth and balance come from using many cloves.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes — it tastes even better the next day.
Does it need cream?
No — bread creates natural creaminess.
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