Creamy Onion and Garlic Soup

In the realm of comforting soups, a symphony of flavors is about to unfold. Imagine the aroma of sweet onions and the earthy allure of garlic dancing together, creating a culinary masterpiece that warms the soul. Join us on a gastronomic adventure as we explore the exquisite harmony of onions and garlic in a velvety, satisfying soup. This recipe, a creation by Marie-Pierre Moine, embodies the essence of comfort and indulgence, destined to become a staple in your kitchen.

SERVES 4
PREP 20 MIN
COOK 40 MIN
FREEZE NOT SUITABLE

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp (15g) butter
• 1 Spanish onion, finely chopped
• 1 large shallot, very finely chopped
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup (100ml) hot water
• 1 small head of garlic, broken up into individual cloves but left unpeeled
• 2/3 cup (150ml) dry white wine
• 2½ cups (600ml) hot vegetable stock or chicken stock
• ½ cup (100ml) whole or 2% milk
• 2 egg yolks
• 4 heaped tbsp heavy cream
• 1 heaped tsp Dijon mustard

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Building the Flavor Base

1. Begin by heating olive oil and butter in a large sauté pan or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
2. Add finely chopped Spanish onion and shallot to the pan, and season lightly with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sauté the mixture for 3 minutes while stirring continuously.
3. Lower the heat, pour in the hot water, and continue cooking gently for about 20 minutes. Stir frequently until the water evaporates, and the onion mixture turns incredibly soft and tender.

Step 2: Infusing Garlic Elegance

1. While the onion mixture simmers, bring a small pan of lightly salted water to a boil.
2. Place the unpeeled garlic cloves into the boiling water and let them simmer for 10–15 minutes, until they are remarkably soft.
3. Drain the garlic cloves and cool them under cold running water. Once cooled, gently squeeze each garlic clove between your fingers to release the softened flesh.

Step 3: Harmonizing Flavors

1. Combine the enchanting onion mixture with the white wine, hot vegetable or chicken stock, and milk. Bring the amalgamation to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally to let the flavors marry.

Step 4: Crafting Creaminess and Complexity

1. In a separate bowl, mash the extracted garlic cloves with the egg yolks, creating a velvety blend.
2. Gradually whisk the heavy cream into the garlic and egg yolk mixture, achieving a smooth and luxurious texture.
3. Introduce 3 tbsp of the simmering soup into the garlic mixture and whisk vigorously. Gradually pour or spoon the garlic mixture back into the simmering soup while keeping the heat low.
4. Stir in the Dijon mustard, adjusting the seasoning with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.

Warm and inviting, this creamy onion and garlic soup weaves together layers of flavor, making every spoonful an experience to savor. Allow the enticing aroma to fill your kitchen as you embark on a culinary journey that marries tradition and innovation in a single bowl. Serve this soul-soothing creation to captivate palates and hearts alike, bringing warmth and comfort to your table.