Česnečka (Czech Garlic Soup)

Ingredients

• 10 cloves garlic
• 2 medium potatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup fresh parsley
• 1 cup croutons
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 leaf bay leaf
• 2 cups water

Instructions

1. 1

   Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes (about 1/2 inch). Set aside.

2. 2

   Mince the garlic cloves finely.

3. 3

   In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

4. 4

   Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

5. 5

   Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir well to coat with the garlic and oil.

6. 6

   Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and 2 cups of water. Add 1 bay leaf and 1 teaspoon of salt.

7. 7

   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

8. 8

   Remove the bay leaf and use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half.

9. 9

   Stir in 1 cup of chopped fresh parsley and season with black pepper to taste.

10. 10

    Serve hot, topped with croutons and additional parsley if desired.