Growing Chefs! Ontario Česnečka (Czech Garlic Soup)

Česnečka (Czech Garlic Soup)

“Česnečka, often called Czech Garlic Soup, is one of the most beloved comfort foods in the Czech Republic. This rustic soup is known for its rich garlic flavour and restorative qualities. It’s commonly served in Czech homes, pubs, and mountain lodges the cold months.”
Difficulty
Beginner
Yield
Serves 6-8
Ingredients
12 cloves garlic, minced2 tablespoons unsalted butter1 yellow onion, small dice6 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock4 Yukon Gold potatoes, medium dice1 teaspoon caraway seeds2 bay leaves1 teaspoon marjoram, dried1 teaspoon salt1/2 teaspoon black pepper2 eggs (optional)1 tablespoon parsley, chopped2 cups rustic bread, cubed1 tablespoon canola oil1 cup Gruyère or Emmental cheese, grated Fresh parsley, chopped
Equipment
Chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cupsMeasuring spoonsMedium stock potWooden spoonBaking sheetLadleTasting spoonsDish towel

Directions

Get Organized!

Gather your mise en place; get together all of the equipment needed for the recipe and gather your ingredients.

Get Prepped!

Finely mince the garlic and dice the onion.

Peel and cut the potatoes into medium-sized cubes.

Cut the bread into small cubes for the croutons.

Measure all remaining ingredients and set aside.

Get Cooking!

Heat the butter in a medium stock pot over medium heat.

Add the onion and cook for 3 – 4 minutes until softened.

Add half of the minced garlic and the caraway seeds and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the potatoes, bay leaves, stock, salt, and black pepper.

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 – 25 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

While the soup cooks, toss the bread cubes with canola oil and spread onto a baking sheet.

Bake at 375°F for 8 – 10 minutes until golden brown and crisp.

Add the remaining garlic and dried marjoram to the soup during the final 5 minutes of cooking.

If using eggs, slowly drizzle the beaten eggs into the simmering soup while stirring gently to create delicate ribbons.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Finish with chopped parsley before serving.

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with croutons, grated cheese, and additional parsley.

Serve immediately.