Sopa Ajo Spanish Garlic has a special place in my heart, reminding me of cozy family dinners at my grandmother’s house. The aroma of simmering garlic and smoky paprika would fill the air, making everyone feel at home. This traditional Spanish garlic soup, known for its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, is a staple in Spanish cuisine. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a simple weeknight dinner, this soup is the perfect remedy. You won’t just be nourishing your body; you’ll be wrapping yourself in warmth and comfort. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Sopa Ajo Spanish Garlic
- Rich, deep flavors that burst in your mouth
- Quick preparation time: ready in under 45 minutes
- Budget-friendly ingredients that won’t break the bank
- Perfect for family gatherings or a comforting solo meal
- Health benefits of garlic, known for its medicinal properties
- Versatile: can be served as a main dish or appetizer
- Suitable for vegetarians; easily made vegan
- Authentic taste that brings the essence of Spain to your table
Ingredients for Sopa Ajo Spanish Garlic
Here’s everything you need for this authentic and heartwarming Spanish garlic soup:
- 5 ounces (3 to 5 slices) crusty white bread – for that perfect texture
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – adds richness
- 10 garlic cloves, thinly sliced – the star ingredient
- 2 teaspoons Spanish smoked paprika – for a smoky flavor
- 1 bay leaf – enhances the broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine – adds depth
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken stock – the flavorful base
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt – to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste – for seasoning
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten – for richness
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh flat-leaf parsley – for garnish
How to Make Sopa Ajo Spanish Garlic
- Step 1: Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 400°F (200°C). Dice the bread into 3/4-inch cubes to prepare for toasting.
- Step 2: Place the bread cubes in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the bread is crisp and golden. Remove and set aside.
- Step 3: Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic cloves and cook until they turn lightly golden, about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the Spanish smoked paprika and cook until fragrant, approximately 30 seconds.
- Step 4: Add the toasted bread cubes and bay leaf to the garlic oil, tossing to coat the bread evenly. Pour in the dry white wine and cook until the liquid is completely absorbed by the bread, about 3 minutes.
- Step 5: Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock and season the soup with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 6: While the soup is at a low simmer, slowly drizzle in the lightly beaten eggs while stirring continuously. Cook until the eggs have set and the soup thickens slightly, about 1 minute.
- Step 7: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the minced fresh flat-leaf parsley. Serve immediately while warm.
Pro Tips for the Best Sopa Ajo Spanish Garlic
These tricks will ensure your soup turns out perfect every time:
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Don’t rush the toasting process; it adds a crucial texture.
- Experiment with different types of bread for unique flavors.
What’s the secret to perfect Sopa Ajo Spanish Garlic?
It’s all about the quality of your ingredients. Fresh garlic and high-quality olive oil elevate this garlic soup recipe to new levels.
Can I make Sopa Ajo Spanish Garlic ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Sopa Ajo Spanish Garlic?
Be careful not to overcook the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Also, avoid using too much salt until the end to taste.
Best Ways to Serve Sopa Ajo Spanish Garlic
This traditional Spanish garlic soup is delightful on its own, but consider serving it with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for added freshness. A splash of lemon juice can enhance the flavors beautifully.
Nutrition Facts for Sopa Ajo Spanish Garlic
Per serving (recipe makes 4 servings):
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Sopa Ajo Spanish Garlic
To store, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock if it’s too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sopa Ajo Spanish Garlic
Can I freeze Sopa Ajo Spanish Garlic?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just ensure it’s cooled before packing into freezer-safe containers.
What can I use instead of chicken stock?
You can substitute with vegetable stock for a vegan version of this easy garlic soup recipe.
Can I make Sopa Ajo Spanish Garlic vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken stock with vegetable stock and omit the eggs.
Variations of Sopa Ajo Spanish Garlic You Can Try
For a creamy garlic soup, add a splash of cream or use blended potatoes for a thicker texture. You can also incorporate different herbs or spices to personalize your Ajo soup.
Print
Sopa Ajo Spanish Garlic: 7 Reasons to Love This Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sopa de Ajo is a comforting Spanish garlic soup with toasted bread, garlic, smoky paprika, and chicken broth.
Ingredients
- 5 ounces (3 to 5 slices) crusty white bread
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 10 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 2 teaspoons Spanish smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh flat-leaf parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven or toaster oven to 400°F. Dice the bread into 3/4-inch cubes to prepare for toasting.
- Place the bread cubes in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the bread is crisp and golden. Remove and set aside.
- Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic cloves and cook until they turn lightly golden, about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the Spanish smoked paprika and cook until fragrant, approximately 30 seconds.
- Add the toasted bread cubes and bay leaf to the garlic oil, tossing to coat the bread evenly. Pour in the dry white wine and cook until the liquid is completely absorbed by the bread, about 3 minutes.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock and season the soup with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- While the soup is at a low simmer, slowly drizzle in the lightly beaten eggs while stirring continuously. Cook until the eggs have set and the soup thickens slightly, about 1 minute.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the minced fresh flat-leaf parsley. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Spanish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 120mg


