Save to Pinterest This Garlic and Herb Soup is a comforting, aromatic dish that highlights the natural, mellow sweetness of garlic, perfectly balanced with the brightness of fresh garden herbs. It is an ideal starter or a light, soothing meal for a cool day.
Save to Pinterest As the garlic and leeks simmer together, they create a savory base that is both deeply flavorful and incredibly gentle on the palate. The addition of diced potatoes ensures a naturally thick and velvety texture without the need for heavy thickeners.
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
To ensure the best flavor, sauté the garlic gently; if it browns too much, it can become bitter. Always check that the potatoes are fork-tender before blending to ensure a perfectly smooth and creamy consistency.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan-friendly version, simply use your favorite plant-based milk and omit the Parmesan cheese. If you prefer a more decadent and richer soup, you can substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
Serviervorschläge
This soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or toasted gluten-free rolls for dipping. To elevate the meal, serve it alongside a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the herbal notes of the dish.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this heartwarming Garlic and Herb Soup as a nourishing starter or a comforting evening meal. Its delicate balance of savory garlic and fresh herbs is sure to make it a household favorite.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute the whole milk with unsweetened plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or soy milk. 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 frequently for 2-3 minutes. The garlic should become fragrant and slightly softened but not browned, which would create a bitter taste.
- → Can I make this soup creamier?
For a richer, creamier texture, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream or full-fat coconut cream. You can also add more potatoes to create a naturally thicker consistency when blended.
- → How should I store leftover soup?
Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or milk to thin if it thickens.
- → What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, gluten-free rolls, or homemade croutons. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad. It also complements a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
- → Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can substitute with dried herbs using one-third the amount. Add dried thyme with the potatoes, but stir in dried parsley and chives at the end to preserve their flavor.