Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic

  1. Peel the Garlic:
    Separate the cloves from two heads of garlic and peel them. To make peeling easier, blanch the cloves in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then rinse under cold water. The skins will slide off easily.

  2. Mild the Garlic Flavor (Optional):
    If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, blanch the peeled cloves again for 1-2 minutes in boiling water, then drain.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Heat the Oil or Butter:
    In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.

  2. Cook the Garlic and Onions:
    Add the garlic cloves and cook gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

  3. Add the Leek and Onion:
    Stir in the chopped onion and sliced leek. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and translucent.

Step 3: Build the Broth

  1. Add the Broth and Water:
    Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and the water, stirring to combine.

  2. Season the Soup:
    Add the thyme sprigs, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.

  3. Simmer:
    Cover the pot partially with a lid and simmer the soup for 20-25 minutes, allowing the garlic to soften completely and infuse the broth with its rich flavor.

Step 4: Blend the Soup

  1. Remove the Herbs:
    Discard the thyme sprigs and bay leaf from the pot.

  2. Purée the Soup:
    Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender and blend until smooth. Return the soup to the pot.

Step 5: Add the Creamy Finish (Optional)

  1. Thicken the Soup (Optional):
    If you'd like a thicker consistency, whisk the flour with a few tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the soup and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

  2. Add Cream or Crème Fraîche:
    Stir in the heavy cream or crème fraîche for a luxurious, creamy texture. Heat gently for another 5 minutes, but do not boil.

Step 6: Prepare the Toppings

  1. Toast the Bread:
    Slice the rustic bread and toast it until golden and crisp. For extra flavor, rub the surface with a clove of raw garlic after toasting.

  2. Grate the Cheese:
    Grate Parmesan or Gruyère cheese to sprinkle over the soup before serving.

Serving the Soup

Ladle the hot garlic soup into bowls. Top with a slice of toasted bread and sprinkle generously with grated cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting aroma and rich taste of this country-style classic.