Spanish Garlic Soup: A Delightful Spanish Sopa de Ajo Infused With Flavors of Paprika and Sherry

This classic Spanish Garlic Soup, known locally as Sopa de Ajo, is a flavorful and comforting dish perfect for cool evenings or anytime you need a hearty and warming meal. The dish is characterized by its robust garlic flavor, balanced with the smokiness of paprika and the slight sweetness of sherry. It is typically served with a poached egg and crusty bread, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)- 1 head of garlic (about 10-12 cloves), peeled and thinly sliced- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil- 4 ounces day-old rustic bread, cut into cubes- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika- 1/4 cup dry sherry- 4 large eggs- Salt and pepper to taste- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until the garlic is golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

2. Add the bread cubes to the pot and stir well to coat them with the garlic-infused oil. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the bread starts to turn golden and crisp.

3. Sprinkle the smoked and sweet paprika over the bread and garlic, stirring to combine. Cook for another minute to allow the spices to bloom.

4. Add the sherry, stirring to deglaze the pot. Allow the sherry to reduce for about a minute.

5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Carefully crack the eggs into the simmering soup, one at a time. Poach the eggs for about 3-4 minutes, or until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny.

8. Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure each bowl gets a poached egg. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and added flavor.

9. Serve hot, with additional crusty bread on the side if desired.

This Spanish Garlic Soup is a perfect blend of rich, savory flavors that will transport you to the heart of Spain with each bite. Enjoy!