Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo –

Spanish garlic soup is a delightful and hearty dish perfect for any occasion. This Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo – brings together the rich flavors of garlic, olive oil, and smoked paprika to create a warming experience that will satisfy your taste buds. With just a few simple ingredients, it’s an excellent choice for a cozy family dinner, an elegant appetizer, or even a quick lunch. Easy to make in just 30 minutes, this soup offers both comfort and elegance in every bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses just eight common pantry items, making it easy to whip up whenever you crave something warm and comforting.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of fried garlic and smoked paprika creates a rich and aromatic broth that elevates this dish beyond ordinary soups.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a starter or enjoy it as a light meal with crusty bread or croutons on the side.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this vegetarian soup is not only delicious but also nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this sumptuous Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo -, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering the soup and allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping garlic and other ingredients safely.
• Sharp knife: Ensures easy slicing of garlic and other vegetables, making prep quicker and more efficient.
• Whisk: Useful for beating the eggs smoothly before adding them to the soup.

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Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 baguette
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 12 cloves of garlic (peeled and finely sliced)
• 2 tablespoons of smoked Spanish paprika

For the Broth

• 8 cups vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons salt (Omit if using pre-bought stock)
• 2 tablespoons apple juice vinegar

For the Garnish

• 3 large eggs (whisked)

How to Make Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo –

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Begin by peeling and finely slicing all the garlic cloves.
2. Slice the baguette into thick pieces for serving later.

Step 2: Heat Olive Oil

1. In a large pot, heat 1/2 cup of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add the sliced garlic cloves to the pot and fry them gently until they turn golden brown.

Step 3: Add Paprika

1. Once the garlic is golden, stir in 2 tablespoons of smoked Spanish paprika.
2. Mix well for about 30 seconds to release its flavor without burning.

Step 4: Pour in Vegetable Broth

1. Gradually pour in 8 cups of vegetable broth while stirring continuously.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Season the Soup

1. Add salt if needed (omit if using pre-bought stock).
2. Stir in 2 tablespoons of apple juice vinegar for an extra tangy kick.

Step 6: Incorporate Eggs

1. Reduce heat to low once boiling has started, then slowly whisk in the 3 large whisked eggs until fully incorporated.
2. Cook gently for another few minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls over slices of baguette or croutons.
2. Enjoy this comforting dish warm!

How to Serve Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo –

Serving Spanish Garlic Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. This rustic soup pairs beautifully with various accompaniments, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Pair with Fresh Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth, adding texture and heartiness to your meal.

Top with Fried Garlic Chips

• For an extra burst of garlic flavor, consider garnishing your soup with crispy fried garlic chips. They add a delightful crunch.

Drizzle with Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving enhances the richness of the soup and adds a finishing touch.

Include Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top can elevate the dish’s freshness and visual appeal.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup while adding a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo –

To make your Spanish Garlic Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips. With just a few adjustments, you can elevate this dish to new heights.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality vegetable broth will significantly enhance the flavor profile of your soup.
• Adjust Spice Level: For those who love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes to the mix.
• Experiment with Broth: If you want more complexity, try using homemade vegetable broth or adding herbs like thyme or bay leaf during cooking.
• Add Texture: For a heartier version, include diced potatoes or chickpeas for added substance and nutrition.
• Whisk Eggs Carefully: When adding whisked eggs, stir gently to create delicate strands in the soup instead of scrambling them entirely.

Best Side Dishes for Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo –

Pairing side dishes with Spanish Garlic Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider when serving this delicious soup.

1. Simple Green Salad
   A fresh salad with mixed greens provides a light contrast to the hearty soup and can be dressed simply with lemon juice and olive oil.
2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness and offer a colorful addition to your meal.
3. Garlic Toasts
   Crispy garlic toasts made from leftover baguette are perfect for dipping into the soup while emphasizing its main ingredient—garlic!
4. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice and vegetables create an appealing presentation alongside the soup.
5. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses, such as manchego or goat cheese, adds creaminess that balances the bold flavors of the garlic soup.
6. Chickpea Fritters
   Crispy chickpea fritters can be served on the side for added protein and texture that complements the smoothness of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spanish garlic soup can be simple, but there are a few common errors to watch out for.

• Using stale bread: Fresh bread absorbs the flavors better. Stale bread may result in a less satisfying texture.
• Overcooking garlic: Garlic can turn bitter if cooked too long. Sauté it just until fragrant for the best flavor.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Store-bought broth often contains salt. Taste your soup before adding more salt to avoid over-seasoning.
• Skipping the vinegar: The apple juice vinegar adds brightness. Don’t omit it; it balances the flavors beautifully.
• Not whisking the eggs properly: Whisk eggs until fully combined for a smoother texture in your soup.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo –

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Best consumed within 2–3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo –

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Pour into an oven-safe dish and cover. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo -?

Spanish garlic soup, or Sopa de Ajo, is a traditional rustic bread soup made with garlic, olive oil, paprika, and vegetable broth. It’s hearty and comforting.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat before serving.

What type of bread works best for this recipe?

A crusty baguette is ideal as it holds up well in the broth without becoming too soggy.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or kale or use different types of broth to enhance the flavor profile.

How spicy is this soup?

The spiciness mainly comes from smoked paprika. If you prefer milder flavors, you can reduce the amount used.

Final Thoughts

This Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo – is not just delicious but also versatile. Perfect as a starter or main dish, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. We encourage you to try this warming recipe and explore different variations that suit your taste!