Basque garlic soup, also known as sopa de ajo in Spanish, is a traditional soup originating from the Basque region of Spain. With its simple ingredients and incredibly rich flavors, this classic dish is a staple in many Basque households. Its base consists of a savory broth made from garlic, olive oil, pimentón (Spanish smoked paprika), and slices of rustic bread. This flavorful broth is then enhanced with the addition of poached or fried eggs, creating a wonderfully creamy and satisfying soup. While the simplicity of Basque garlic soup belies its exquisite taste, it is guaranteed to warm your heart and soul on a chilly day.
Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!
BASQUE POTATO AND GREEN BEAN SOUP WITH GARLIC
Provided by Susan Herrmann Loomis
Categories soups and stews, appetizer
Time 45m
Yield Six servings
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Place the potatoes, one tablespoon of salt and the water in a large saucepan over medium-high heat, cover and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are nearly soft through, about 15 minutes. Add the green beans and cook, uncovered, until they start to turn tender and lose their bright green color, about 15 minutes.
- While the beans and potatoes are cooking, heat the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. When the oil is hot but not smoking, add the sliced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, until it turns golden brown, about five to eight minutes. Remove from the heat and reserve.
- When the beans and potatoes are cooked, add the garlic and olive oil to the soup and stir. Season to taste with salt and pepper, if desired, and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 243, UnsaturatedFat 11 grams, Carbohydrate 28 grams, Fat 14 grams, Fiber 4 grams, Protein 4 grams, SaturatedFat 2 grams, Sodium 1037 milligrams, Sugar 3 grams
BASQUE GARLIC SOUP
Categories Egg
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 450°F. Place baguette on a baking sheet, and toast in preheated oven until very browned and almost burnt, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from oven, and let cool. Break or slice bread into 2-inch pieces.
- Heat 7 tablespoons oil in a large pot over medium-high. Add bread pieces, and reduce heat to medium. Cook, turning often to allow bread to toast and soak up oil, until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Remove bread, and set aside. Wipe pot clean.
- Add garlic and remaining 1 tablespoon oil to pot. Cook over medium-high, stirring constantly, until garlic is golden brown, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Stir in paprika. Add broth and salt; bring to a boil.
- Add bread to pot. Reduce heat to medium-low, and maintain a simmer. Add vinegar. Cook, stirring occasionally to break up bread, until flavors meld, about 25 minutes. Taste and add more salt, if needed.
- When ready to serve, bring soup to a simmer over medium-high. Stirring constantly, slowly pour beaten eggs into hot soup. If any large pieces of bread remain, cut with kitchen scissors, or break apart with a spoon. Serve hot.
Tips:
- Fresh ingredients matter: Use the freshest garlic and vegetables you can find for the most flavorful soup.
- Don't skip the bread: The toasted bread adds a delicious texture and flavor to the soup. You can use any type of bread you like, but a crusty bread like baguette works especially well.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot: This will help prevent the soup from burning.
- Don't overcrowd the pot: If you're using a lot of vegetables, cook them in batches so that they don't steam instead of sautéing.
- Season to taste: Add salt, pepper, and paprika to taste. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- Serve immediately: Basque garlic soup is best served hot, so make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking.
Conclusion:
Basque garlic soup is a simple but delicious dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. It's easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste. Whether you like it mild or spicy, vegetarian or with meat, there's a Basque garlic soup recipe out there for everyone. So next time you're looking for a comforting and flavorful soup, give Basque garlic soup a try. You won't be disappointed.
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