Back to Basics: Garlic Soup

As we settle into the chill of winter, I find myself craving meals that are not only comforting but also restorative. This Garlic Soup is my go-to recipe when I need something that feels indulgent yet is packed with health benefits.

By blending the garlic with heavy cream and savory broth, I’ve created a version that transforms the sharp bite of raw garlic into a mellow, velvety richness. It’s a powerful way to boost your immune system during the flu season while enjoying a dinner that feels like a warm hug — plus, it is naturally gluten-free!

Despite its sophisticated flavor and creamy texture, this soup is surprisingly simple to prepare. In just 45 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table. I strongly recommend pairing it with homemade croutons or a poached egg to turn this bowl of soup into a hearty, complete meal that will leave everyone at your table asking for seconds.

Health benefits of garlic. Garlic is very healthy for you because it helps reduce cholesterol and blood pressure and works as an antioxidant. This recipe offers you a delicious way to eat large amounts of it, ensuring you get those benefits in every spoonful. As a bonus, it is totally gluten-free, making it a very welcome dish for those on a gluten-free diet who are looking for a comforting, safe and flavorful meal.

Garlic Soup in Czech cuisine. Garlic soup, or "Česnečka," is an absolute staple in Czech cuisine, found in nearly every traditional pub and household across the country. Historically, garlic has been revered in Czech culture not just for its flavor but for its health properties; for centuries, this soup was considered a "peasant dish" used to ward off illness and boost immunity during the long, cold Central European winters. It is even famously known as a "vyprošťovák," or hangover cure, due to its restorative powers. While the most traditional version is a clear broth served with potatoes, there are many variations today. These range from that classic clear broth — sometimes enriched with cheese or an egg — to the rich, creamy version I am sharing with you here, which turns this humble remedy into a velvety comfort food.

Benefits of thickening soup with vegetables. One of the best techniques I use in this recipe is thickening the soup with the vegetables themselves rather than using a traditional flour-based roux. By sautéing the onion and potatoes and then blending them into the broth, I create a naturally creamy texture that keeps the dish totally gluten-free. This method not only avoids the need for flour but also intensifies the flavor profile, ensuring that every spoonful tastes like the ingredients rather than a filler. This is a versatile technique that can be used with many other soups — such as cauliflower, broccoli or butternut squash — allowing you to achieve a rich, velvety consistency while keeping the meal lighter and more nutritious.

Tom Slepicka is a recipe creator, culinary instructor, chef and a consultant. You can find more of his recipes at tomthechef.com.