Name: French Garlic Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 64 ounces chicken stock; Fresh sage; 1 large head of garlic; 2/3 cup olive oil; 1 large egg, separated; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Pinch of salt

Jump to Recipe

French Garlic Soup is a traditional country dish known for its silky texture, gentle garlic flavor, and comforting warmth. This classic bowl comes from southern France, where simple pantry ingredients turn into something deeply satisfying. Thickened with homemade mayonnaise instead of cream, this soup delivers richness without heaviness. Whether you crave a cozy winter meal or a restorative bowl after a long day, this recipe brings timeless French cooking straight to your kitchen.

Story

French Garlic Soup has long been valued as a restorative dish in rural French kitchens, especially in Provence and the Languedoc. Cooks relied on garlic not only for flavor but also for its reputation as a nourishing staple during colder months. This French Garlic Soup stands apart because it uses an emulsified garlic mayonnaise to create a smooth, velouté-style finish. Unlike heavier cream soups, this French Garlic Soup tastes light yet deeply savory, making it perfect for both everyday meals and elegant starters. Over the years, this French Garlic Soup has remained a trusted example of how French home cooking transforms humble ingredients into something memorable.

Ingredients

64 ounces chicken stock
Small bunch fresh sage
1 large head of garlic
2/3 cup olive oil (or preferred vegetable oil)
1 large egg, separated
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by gently heating the chicken stock with the fresh sage in a large Dutch oven until it reaches a light simmer. While the stock warms, peel all garlic cloves, slice them lengthwise, and carefully remove the inner shoots, which can taste bitter in large quantities.

Cooking Instructions

Blanch the garlic cloves briefly, mash them into a smooth paste, and simmer them in the stock. Separately blend egg yolk, mustard, salt, and oil into a thick mayonnaise. Temper the mayonnaise with hot soup, whisk it back into the pot, and gently reheat without boiling to keep the soup smooth and creamy.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid letting the soup boil after adding the mayonnaise, as high heat can cause separation. Skipping the removal of garlic shoots may also introduce bitterness that overwhelms the delicate flavor balance.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Straining the soup before adding the mayonnaise creates a refined veloute recipe texture. Using high-quality olive oil also adds depth and a subtle fruity note to this creamy garlic soup.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve the soup hot with crusty bread, homemade croutons, a drizzle of olive oil, and a light sprinkle of smoked paprika. This country french recipe works beautifully as a starter or a light main course.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring constantly, and never allow it to simmer to preserve the creamy texture.

Conclusion

This French Garlic Soup proves that classic recipes endure for a reason. With simple ingredients, careful technique, and thoughtful preparation, you can create a comforting bowl that feels both rustic and refined. If you enjoy timeless French flavors and nourishing meals, this soup deserves a place in your regular rotation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this soup very strong in garlic flavor?

The garlic tastes mellow and sweet because blanching and simmering soften its intensity, making this soup gentle and balanced rather than sharp.

Can this be made vegetarian?

You can replace chicken stock with vegetable stock to create a vegetarian garlic soup without changing the overall texture or method.

Why is mayonnaise used instead of cream?

Mayonnaise thickens the soup while keeping it light, giving this dish its signature smoothness and traditional French character.