What is Sopa de Ajo and where does it come from?

Sopa de Ajo, also known as garlic soup, is a traditional Spanish soup originating from the Castilla y León region. It is a simple, rustic dish made with garlic, bread, paprika, and broth, typically topped with a poached egg. Renowned for its comforting flavor and ease of preparation, this soup was historically a peasant meal designed to make the most of basic, pantry ingredients.

How do you make authentic Sopa de Ajo at home?

To make authentic Sopa de Ajo, start by gently frying sliced garlic in olive oil until golden. Add smoked paprika for depth, then pour in chicken or vegetable broth. Tear stale bread into chunks and add to the pot, letting it soak and soften. Finally, crack eggs directly into the soup and allow them to poach gently before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This simple method produces a rich, flavorful soup in under 30 minutes.

Can Sopa de Ajo be made vegan or vegetarian?

Yes, Sopa de Ajo can easily be adapted for vegan or vegetarian diets by replacing the traditional chicken broth with vegetable broth. Instead of using eggs, you can omit them or add a plant-based egg substitute if desired. Olive oil and paprika remain key flavor elements, preserving the soup’s signature taste while keeping it plant-based.

What are the health benefits of Sopa de Ajo?

Sopa de Ajo offers several health benefits, particularly due to its main ingredient, garlic. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties and potential to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol. The soup’s broth helps keep you hydrated, and the eggs provide a good source of protein and essential nutrients. Overall, it’s a nourishing and warming dish ideal for cold days or when recovering from illness.

How can I store and reheat leftover Sopa de Ajo?

Leftover Sopa de Ajo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the eggs from overcooking or becoming rubbery. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to restore the right consistency before serving. Avoid microwaving to keep the flavor and texture intact.

Sopa De Ajo Recipe With Authentic Garlic And Spanish Taste

Name: Sopa De Ajo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: – 4 ounces stale bread; – 8 to 10 large garlic cloves; – 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; – 6 to 7 cups chicken stock or vegetable broth; – 4 large eggs, whisked; – Fine sea salt, to taste; – Freshly-ground black pepper, to taste; – Olive oil for sautéing

Description

🧄 Savor the robust and comforting flavors of Sopa de Ajo, a traditional Spanish garlic soup that’s simple yet deeply satisfying.
🍞 This recipe transforms humble ingredients like stale bread and garlic into a warming, hearty meal perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave something soothing.

Ingredients

– 4 ounces stale bread

– 8 to 10 large garlic cloves

– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

– 6 to 7 cups chicken stock or vegetable broth

– 4 large eggs, whisked

– Fine sea salt, to taste

– Freshly-ground black pepper, to taste

– Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions

1-First, heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat and sauté the garlic slices for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden without burning. This step builds the soup’s base and infuses it with that incredible garlic flavor we all love.

2-Next, stir in the smoked paprika, then add the bread and toss to coat with the garlic oil, cooking for an additional 3 minutes while stirring frequently. This helps the bread absorb the flavors and start to break down.

3-Pour in the chicken stock, break up the bread pieces, and bring the soup to a rapid simmer. Keep an eye on it to ensure it reaches the perfect consistency.

4-Stir the soup in a circular motion to create a whirlpool, then slowly pour in the whisked eggs while stirring gently to form egg ribbons. This adds a wonderful texture and protein boost.

5-Adjust the broth quantity if a more brothy consistency is desired, then season with salt, pepper, or additional smoked paprika. Serve immediately for the best taste and enjoy the warmth it brings.

Notes

🍳 Stir gently when adding eggs to create beautiful, tender egg ribbons.
🔥 Use smoked paprika to add authentic depth and a subtle smoky flavor.
🍞 Stale bread is perfect for this recipe as it absorbs the broth without falling apart too quickly.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Sautéing and Simmering
Cuisine: Spanish

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl

Keywords: Sopa de Ajo, Spanish Garlic Soup, Traditional Soup, Garlic Bread Soup