Easy Roasted Garlic Soup

Calling all garlic lovers – this Easy Roasted Garlic Soup is for you! It’s the perfect comfort food for cold, gloomy days. It’s creamy, garlicky, and delicious. Made with around 50 garlic cloves (5 garlic heads), this soup is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Rich Flavor: The roasting process brings out the sweetness of the garlic, creating a deep, satisfying flavor in every bowl.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a cozy dinner or a fancy starter. Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
• Comforting and Satisfying: This soup offers warmth and comfort, making it an ideal dish for chilly nights.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like crispy turkey strips or fresh herbs to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large pot
• Hand blender or food processor
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even roasting of vegetables for optimal flavor.
• Large pot: Provides ample space for blending and simmering the soup.
• Hand blender: Allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot for convenience.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 8 medium waxy potatoes (about 1 kg), peeled and diced
• 2 shallots, peeled and halved
• 5 heads garlic, cut the tops off
• Olive oil for drizzling
• Salt and pepper to taste

Herbs and Broth

• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 3 cups (750ml) chicken or vegetable broth (or more to desired consistency)

Creaminess & Toppings

• 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream / double cream
• Crispy turkey strips, crumbled
• Grated/shredded mild cheddar cheese
• Chopped parsley / dill / chives
• Fresh baguette

How to Make Easy Roasted Garlic Soup

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Prepare Vegetables for Roasting

• Place the diced potatoes, halved shallots, and garlic heads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Drizzle generously with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

• Place in the oven and roast for 30 minutes.
• Remove from the oven, cover with kitchen foil, then return to the oven for an additional 15–25 minutes until potatoes are tender and garlic cloves are soft and golden.

Step 4: Blend the Soup Base

• Transfer roasted vegetables into a large pot, then squeeze the cloves out of their skins.
• Add chicken or vegetable broth along with heavy cream.

Step 5: Achieve Creamy Consistency

Blend with a hand blender until smooth while vegetables are still hot. Alternatively, use a food processor or blender until smooth, then pour back into the pot.

Step 6: Season to Taste

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to preference.

Step 7: Warm Before Serving

Gently warm it on the stove over medium heat.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle the roasted garlic soup into serving bowls.

Step 9: Garnish

Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, crumbled crispy turkey strips, cheddar cheese, and chopped herbs. Enjoy with fresh baguette!

This Easy Roasted Garlic Soup is not just a dish; it’s an experience. Perfect for any occasion where comfort meets flavor!

How to Serve Easy Roasted Garlic Soup

Serving Easy Roasted Garlic Soup can elevate your dining experience, making it a delightful centerpiece for any meal. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this comforting dish.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.
• Dill or Chives: Add dill or chives for a fresh, herbal note that complements the garlic.

Crusty Bread

• Fresh Baguette: Serve with slices of warm baguette for dipping. It’s perfect for absorbing the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with homemade garlic bread to amplify the garlic goodness.

Toppings Galore

• Crispy Turkey Strips: Crumble crispy turkey strips on top for added texture and flavor.
• Grated Cheddar Cheese: A sprinkle of mild cheddar cheese adds richness and a gooey element.

As a Starter

• Small Bowls: Serve in small bowls as a starter before the main course to whet your appetite.
• Shot Glasses: For a fun twist, serve in shot glasses at gatherings or parties.

How to Perfect Easy Roasted Garlic Soup

To ensure your Easy Roasted Garlic Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Roast the garlic until it’s golden brown to enhance its sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Texture Matters: Blend the soup while hot for an ultra-smooth consistency. If you prefer chunkier soup, blend only half of it.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper as necessary for optimal flavor.
• Broth Choice: Use high-quality chicken or vegetable broth for the best taste. Homemade broth is ideal if available.
• Cream Variation: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option without sacrificing creaminess.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Roasted Garlic Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Roasted Garlic Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
2. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers add a hearty touch and pair nicely with garlic flavors.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring additional nutrients and vibrant colors to your meal.
4. Cheesy Quesadillas: Crisp quesadillas filled with cheese complement the creamy soup well.
5. Bruschetta: Tomato bruschetta offers a refreshing contrast with its tangy flavor profile.
6. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic choice that brings nostalgia and heartiness to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Easy Roasted Garlic Soup.

• Using too much salt – It’s easy to over-season. Always start with a small amount and adjust as you go.
• Not roasting the garlic long enough – Roasting enhances the flavor. Ensure the garlic is soft and golden for the best taste.
• Skipping the blending step – For a creamy texture, blending is essential. Don’t skip it; use a hand blender or food processor until smooth.
• Ignoring the broth quality – The broth can make or break your soup. Use a high-quality chicken or vegetable broth for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the potatoes – If they become mushy, it can affect the texture. Cook until tender but not falling apart.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Roasted Garlic Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Roasted Garlic Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Easy Roasted Garlic Soup special?

This soup is special due to its rich, creamy texture and deep garlic flavor, perfect for any garlic lover.

Can I customize the Easy Roasted Garlic Soup?

Absolutely! You can add different herbs or spices according to your preferences, like basil or cumin.

How can I make this soup vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.

What can I serve with Easy Roasted Garlic Soup?

Pair it with a fresh baguette or a side salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Easy Roasted Garlic Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. It’s perfect for adapting with your favorite herbs and toppings. Give it a try and enjoy customizing this delightful dish!