Česneková polévka (Garlic Soup)
A hearty and flavorful Czech garlic soup, often considered a national comfort food. It's known for its pungent garlic aroma and creamy texture, typically served with croutons and cheese.
🧂 Ingredients
- 10 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 6 cups Chicken or Vegetable Broth
- 2 medium Potatoes(peeled and diced)
- 2 tbsp Flour
- 0.5 cup Milk or Cream(optional, for creaminess)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Marjoram(dried)
- 4 slices Bread(for croutons)
- 50 g Cheese(grated, for serving (e.g., Eidam or Gouda))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 2
Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
💡 Tip: Burnt garlic can make the soup bitter. - 3
Sprinkle flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
- 4
Gradually whisk in the broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a simmer.
💡 Tip: Adding broth slowly helps create a smooth soup. - 5
Add diced potatoes and dried marjoram to the pot. Simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- 6
If desired, stir in milk or cream for a richer texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
💡 Tip: Add cream at the end to prevent curdling. - 7
While the soup simmers, prepare croutons by toasting or frying bread slices until golden and crisp.
💡 Tip: You can rub toasted bread with a garlic clove for extra flavor. - 8
Ladle the hot soup into bowls, top with grated cheese and croutons, and serve immediately.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference.
- ✓For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot.
- ✓Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
🔄 Variations
- Add a fried egg on top for a more substantial meal.
- Include a small amount of caraway seeds for a subtle anise flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, use only vegetable broth.