Experience the warmth and comfort of a traditional Austrian dish – Old Garlic Soup in Bread! This recipe, passed down from generations of Austrian chefs, combines a flavorful garlic soup with a crusty homemade bread bowl. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for a cozy winter evening.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
Ingredients:
For the Bread:
- Yeast: 20 grams fresh yeast
- Liquids: 350 milliliters lukewarm water
- Sweetener: 1 teaspoon sugar
- Dry Ingredients:
- 600 grams all-purpose flour (about 5 cups)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cumin
For the Garlic Potato Soup:
- Garlic: 15 cloves garlic
- Fat: Butter
- Liquid: 1 liter vegetable broth
- Vegetables: 4 potatoes, peeled and chopped
- Thickener: Flour (as needed)
- Creamy Element: 200 milliliters whipping cream
- Seasoning: Salt and black pepper to taste
- Garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Making the Bread:
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the lukewarm water, sugar, and fresh yeast. Let this mixture sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy and active. This is the foundation for your fluffy bread bowl.
- Create the Dough: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cumin. Once the yeast mixture is activated, pour it into the dry ingredients. Using a spoon or stand mixer, knead the ingredients together until a soft dough forms.
- Let it Rise: Transfer the kneaded dough to a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in a warm spot for 30 minutes. The dough should rise in size during this time.
- Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 250°C (482°F). Once preheated, shape the risen dough into a round loaf or another desired shape. Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet. Bake the bread for 25 minutes, or until golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside.
Making the Garlic Potato Soup:
- Sautéing the Garlic: While the bread bakes, prepare the flavorful soup. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the 15 cloves of garlic and sauté them until fragrant and slightly golden brown. The garlic infuses the butter with its strong flavor, forming the base of the soup.
- Broth and Vegetables: Once the garlic is cooked, pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Add the peeled and chopped potatoes to the boiling broth. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Creamy Thickening: To create a smooth and slightly thickened soup, add a small amount of flour, whisking it in gradually. The amount of flour will depend on your desired consistency. Once thickened to your liking, stir in the whipping cream.
- Seasoning and Finishing Touches: Season the soup with salt and black pepper according to your taste preference. Let the soup simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Finally, garnish the hot soup with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Serving:
- Once the bread is baked and the soup is ready, carefully hollow out the center of the warm bread loaf to create a bowl. Pour the hot garlic potato soup into the bread bowl and serve immediately. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Austrian dish!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Pair with a glass of crisp white wine or herbal tea to complement the flavors.
Cooking Tips:
- If you don’t have fresh yeast, substitute 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast. The rising time may vary slightly.
- Adjust the number of garlic cloves based on your preference for garlic intensity.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Garlic: Rich in antioxidants and has immune-boosting properties.
- Potatoes: Provide essential vitamins like Vitamin C and potassium.
- Homemade Bread: A good source of carbohydrates for energy.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This dish is vegetarian.
- Can Be Made Dairy-Free: Substitute butter and whipping cream with plant-based alternatives.
Storage Tips:
- Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It brings the flavors of traditional Austrian cuisine to your table.
- The homemade bread adds a rustic charm to the dish.
- Simple ingredients, yet full of comforting flavors.
Conclusion:
This Old Garlic Soup in Bread recipe is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic dishes. So ditch the complicated meals and embrace the warmth and simplicity of this Austrian tradition!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use dried garlic instead of fresh garlic?
While fresh garlic gives the best flavor, you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Start with 1-2 teaspoons and adjust to taste. - Can I use other types of bread for the bowl?
Yes, you can use any crusty bread, such as sourdough or whole grain, for the bread bowl. - What if I don’t have whipping cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half, milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or oat cream. - Can I make the bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the bread a day ahead. Just hollow it out and warm it slightly before serving with the soup. - How do I thicken the soup without flour?
You can use cornstarch or potato starch instead of flour. Mix it with a little cold water before adding it to the hot soup. - Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or leeks can be added for more depth of flavor. - Is there a gluten-free version?
Use gluten-free flour for the bread and a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch for the soup. - Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, the soup can be frozen without the cream. Add the cream when reheating. - How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
Serve the soup immediately after pouring it into the bread bowl to maintain the bread’s crispness. - Can I use a bread machine to make the bread?
Yes, use your bread machine for the dough cycle, then shape and bake as directed.