FAQ about Garlic Soup Italian

1. Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock?

Absolutely! This recipe is easily adaptable for vegetarians. Just swap the chicken stock for your favorite vegetable stock.

2. How many cloves of garlic are in two small heads?

This will vary depending on the size of the heads, but typically a small head of garlic has around 6-8 cloves. So, this recipe uses roughly 12-16 cloves of garlic.

3. I don't have an immersion blender, can I use a regular blender?

Yes, you can definitely use a regular blender. Just let the soup cool slightly before transferring it to the blender in batches. Be sure to hold down the lid firmly while blending, and use a kitchen towel to cover the top as a precaution in case of hot splashes.

4. The soup seems too thick, can I add more liquid?

Yes, you can thin the soup with additional chicken or vegetable stock until it reaches your desired consistency.

5. What can I use instead of cream?

For a lighter option, you can substitute the cream with low-fat milk or even unsweetened almond milk.

6. How can I make this recipe vegan?

Use vegetable stock and omit the cream. You can also use vegan butter or olive oil to fry the croutons.

7. Do I have to use rustic bread for croutons?

Not at all! You can use any type of bread you have on hand. Just be sure it's a bit stale for a better crispy texture.

8. How can I make the croutons even more flavorful?

Before frying the croutons, toss them with some olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried herbs like oregano or rosemary.

9. What other toppings can I add to the soup?

For an extra cheesy touch, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of each serving. A drizzle of good quality olive oil or a dollop of pesto also adds a nice flavor dimension.

10. Can I roast the garlic instead of sauteing it?

Yes! Roasting the garlic will mellow out the flavor a bit. Simply wrap the whole heads of garlic in foil and roast at 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes, or until softened. Squeeze the roasted cloves out of their skins and add them to the soup with the potatoes.

11. How long will leftover soup stay fresh?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

12. Can I freeze garlic soup?

Yes, you can freeze leftover soup for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

13. How do I reheat frozen soup?

Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

14. What are some good side dishes to serve with garlic soup?

A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing, crusty bread for dipping, or a side of roasted vegetables would all be delicious accompaniments.

15. Is this soup good for a cold?

Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, so this soup might be helpful in soothing the symptoms of a cold. However, it's not a miracle cure, so be sure to get plenty of rest and fluids as well.