Sopa de Ajo (Spanish Garlic Soup)

Name: Sopa de Ajo (Spanish Garlic Soup)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 1/4 cup olive oil; 8 to 10 large cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 4 ounces stale bread, torn or sliced; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 6 to 7 cups chicken stock or vegetable broth; 4 large eggs, whisked; Sea salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

January 7, 2026

Updated:

January 7, 2026

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Sopa de Ajo (Spanish Garlic Soup) is a delightful and aromatic dish that warms the heart and soul. This traditional Spanish soup shines with the bold flavor of garlic, balanced by the richness of eggs and the comforting texture of bread. Perfect for cozy dinners or whenever you need a quick, satisfying meal, Sopa de Ajo is sure to impress. Its unique combination of ingredients makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from prep to table, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The robust taste of garlic, complemented by smoked paprika, creates an unforgettable flavor profile.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a starter or main course; it pairs well with various sides or simply on its own.
Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup nourishes both body and spirit.
Customizable: Adjust the thickness and spices according to your preferences for a personalized touch.

Tools and Preparation

Making Sopa de Ajo requires minimal tools, making it accessible for any home cook. Having the right equipment will ensure your cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large stockpot
Wooden spoon
Whisk
Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

Large stockpot: Essential for simmering the soup evenly without splatter.
Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot.
Whisk: Helps incorporate eggs smoothly into the soup for delicate ribbons.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

1/4 cup olive oil
8 to 10 large cloves garlic, very thinly sliced
4 ounces stale bread, torn or thinly sliced
1 tablespoon smoked paprika (pimentón)
6 to 7 cups chicken stock or vegetable broth

For the Eggs

4 large eggs, whisked

For Seasoning

Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Sopa de Ajo (Spanish Garlic Soup)

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic and Bread

Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally until fragrant and just golden. Be careful not to let the garlic brown too much. Stir in the smoked paprika.

Step 2: Add the Bread

Add the torn or sliced stale bread to the pot. Toss to coat evenly in the garlic oil. Continue cooking for another 3 minutes while stirring frequently.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Pour in 6 cups of chicken stock or vegetable broth and stir to combine. Use a wooden spoon to break up the bread into smaller pieces as it softens. Bring the soup to a strong simmer.

Step 4: Add the Eggs

While stirring the soup in a slow circular motion to create a whirlpool effect, gradually pour in the whisked eggs. Keep stirring gently to form delicate egg ribbons throughout the soup.

Step 5: Season and Adjust

If you prefer a thinner consistency, add up to an additional cup of stock. Taste and season with fine sea salt, black pepper, and more smoked paprika if desired.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle into bowls and enjoy immediately while hot and fragrant.

How to Serve Sopa de Ajo (Spanish Garlic Soup)

Serving Sopa de Ajo can elevate your dining experience. This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors.

Pair with Crusty Bread

Freshly baked baguette or ciabatta is perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up the garlic-infused broth.

Add a Side Salad

A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of Sopa de Ajo, providing a refreshing contrast.

Top with Fresh Herbs

Garnish each bowl with chopped parsley or cilantro for an added burst of color and freshness right before serving.

Serve with Cheese

A plate of aged Manchego cheese offers a salty, nutty flavor that pairs nicely with the soup’s garlic notes.

Include Marinated Olives

A small bowl of marinated olives adds a savory touch and balances the flavors of the soup beautifully.

Offer a Splash of Sherry

A glass of dry sherry as a beverage enhances the meal, making it feel more authentic and festive.

How to Perfect Sopa de Ajo (Spanish Garlic Soup)

Perfecting Sopa de Ajo requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

Use fresh ingredients – Fresh garlic and high-quality olive oil make a significant difference in flavor.
Control garlic browning – Be careful not to let the garlic brown too much; it should be just golden for optimal taste.
Adjust consistency – If you prefer a thinner soup, gradually add more stock until you reach your desired texture.
Whisk eggs slowly – Pour in the whisked eggs gradually while stirring to create delicate ribbons throughout the soup.
Taste before serving – Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to suit your preferences.
Let it rest – Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking can help meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Sopa de Ajo (Spanish Garlic Soup)

Pairing side dishes with Sopa de Ajo can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some delightful options to consider.

Spanish Tortilla – This classic potato omelet adds heartiness and complements the garlic flavors perfectly.
Patatas Bravas – Crispy fried potatoes served with spicy aioli provide a satisfying crunch alongside the soup.
Chorizo al Vino – Sausages cooked in wine bring rich, savory flavors that pair well with this garlic-based dish.
Pimientos de Padrón – These mild peppers sautéed in olive oil offer a delightful bite-sized treat that balances the meal.
Garlic Shrimp – Lightly sautéed shrimp in garlic butter echo the main dish’s theme while adding protein.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and additional nutrients, enhancing your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sopa de Ajo (Spanish Garlic Soup) can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

Overcooking the Garlic: Garlic can turn bitter if overcooked. Sauté it just until fragrant and lightly golden to keep the flavor balanced.
Using Fresh Bread: Stale bread is key for this recipe. Fresh bread won’t absorb the broth properly, leading to a mushy texture. Use day-old or toasted bread instead.
Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting before serving can leave your soup bland. Always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance the flavors.
Adding Eggs Too Quickly: Pouring in the eggs too fast will create clumps rather than ribbons. Stir gently and gradually introduce them to achieve a smooth texture.
Not Simmering Long Enough: Skipping the simmering step can result in an unbalanced flavor. Allow enough time for the bread to soften and meld with the broth.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Sopa de Ajo (Spanish Garlic Soup)

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Leave space at the top of the container for expansion.

Reheating Sopa de Ajo (Spanish Garlic Soup)

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sopa de Ajo (Spanish Garlic Soup)?

Sopa de Ajo is a traditional Spanish garlic soup known for its rich flavor and comforting qualities. It features garlic, bread, and spices in a warm broth.

Can I make Sopa de Ajo vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth and follow the same recipe for a delicious vegetarian version.

How spicy is Sopa de Ajo (Spanish Garlic Soup)?

This soup is not typically spicy; however, you can adjust the smoked paprika amount based on your heat preference for added warmth.

What can I serve with Sopa de Ajo?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. It’s perfect as a starter or main dish!

Final Thoughts

Sopa de Ajo (Spanish Garlic Soup) is not only easy to prepare but also offers comforting flavors that warm you from within. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Give this delightful soup a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!