Why the Garlic Soup Is Great For Burning Fat
If you’re looking for a delicious way to support your weight loss journey, garlic soup is a fantastic option.
I’ve found that garlic has amazing properties that boost metabolism and help burn fat. Plus, it’s low in calories but high in flavor, making it easy to enjoy without guilt.
The warming nature of the soup satisfies my cravings, and I love how it keeps me feeling full longer.
Additionally, the vitamins and minerals from the garlic and vegetables nourish my body, giving me the energy I need.
Ingredients of Garlic Soup
Ah, garlic soup—the ultimate comfort food that warms your belly and your soul. It’s like a cozy blanket on a chilly day, but instead of fabric, it’s packed with flavor and nutrition. So, if you’re ready to plunge into this delightful recipe, let’s gather up all the goodies we’ll need. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this flavorful journey.
Ingredients for Garlic Soup:
- 2 heads garlic, peeled
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 carrots, peeled and grated
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 slices white bread, crumbed (thick slices)
- Sea salt, to taste
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- 700 ml strong homemade chicken stock
- 500 ml full-cream milk
- 1 pinch dried tarragon
- 125 ml cream
Now, before you rush off to the grocery store, let’s talk about a few things. First off, the garlic—oh, that glorious garlic! It’s the star of the show, so go for fresh, plump heads.
And while we’re at it, don’t skimp on the butter; it really elevates the flavor and richness of the soup. If you’re feeling adventurous (or just have a love for robust flavors), consider using homemade chicken stock. It makes a world of difference, trust me.
And if you’re a vegetarian, you can easily swap in vegetable stock instead. Also, remember to season thoughtfully; a pinch of salt here and there can take your dish from “meh” to “wow.”
How to Make Garlic Soup
Alright, let’s plunge into the delightful process of making garlic soup. First things first, grab your 2 heads of garlic and peel those cloves. I know it can feel like a bit of a chore, but trust me, the payoff is totally worth it.
Now, in a large, heavy-based saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until it’s foaming like a bubbly little hot tub. Can you smell that? Mmm, buttery goodness. Toss in the garlic cloves, along with 2 grated carrots, 1 diced medium potato, 1 finely chopped large onion, and 3 chopped stalks of celery.
Stir-fry those veggies for about 2 to 5 minutes; you just want to get them all cozy and aromatic. Then, cover the pan and let everything simmer gently over low heat for 20 minutes. You’re looking for soft veggies here—not mush, but soft enough so they’re practically begging for a blender.
Once your veggies have reached their soft state, it’s time to add in some texture with 2 slices of thick white bread, crumbed up. Stir that in and season with a sprinkle of sea salt and fresh ground black pepper. Don’t be shy; a little seasoning can go a long way in elevating your dish.
Next, gradually add in 700 ml of strong homemade chicken stock, followed by 500 ml of full-cream milk, stirring constantly. It’s like a little dance in the pot, and trust me, you want to keep it moving until it comes to a gentle boil.
After that, remove the saucepan from heat and transfer the soup to a blender or food processor. Blend until it’s smooth and creamy. Just imagine that velvety texture—pure bliss.
Finally, heat the blended soup just a bit more, and stir in a pinch of dried tarragon for that hint of herby magic, then finish it off with 125 ml of cream. You’re almost there!
Serve it in piping hot bowls, and if you’re feeling fancy, maybe a sprinkle of extra tarragon on top for good measure. Grab a spoon, take a sip, and let the warmth wrap around you like a cozy blanket. Who knew garlic could taste this good? Enjoy your creation!
Garlic Soup Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
After enjoying that creamy and rich garlic soup, you might be wondering how to adapt the recipe for a low-carb diet.
To start, I’d swap out the potato for cauliflower; it’ll give you that creamy texture without the carbs. Instead of using white bread, I’d suggest almond flour or coconut flour as a thickening agent.
For the milk, try unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk to keep it low-carb while maintaining the creaminess.
Finally, feel free to add more garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor without adding carbs.
Enjoy your delicious, low-carb version!
What to Serve with Garlic Soup
When you’re ready to enjoy your garlic soup, consider pairing it with a light salad for a revitalizing contrast.
A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the soup’s richness beautifully. You might also think about serving some crusty bread on the side; it’s perfect for dipping.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, a cheese platter with assorted cheeses and nuts could elevate the meal.
I often add a glass of crisp white wine to enhance the flavors.
Whatever you choose, keep it light to balance the soothing warmth of the garlic soup. Enjoy!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
Pairing garlic soup with lighter options is a great way to enhance your meal, but if you’re looking to decrease calories without sacrificing flavor, there are a few simple tweaks you can make.
First, swap full-cream milk for low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative. You can also reduce the amount of butter and cream; using Greek yogurt as a substitute adds creaminess with fewer calories.
Opt for whole-grain bread instead of white for added fiber.
Finally, load up on veggies like spinach or kale to boost nutrition while keeping calories low.
Enjoy a deliciously lighter garlic soup!