Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Garlic Cilantro Soup?
It is a rich and comforting soup inspired by traditional Cuban cuisine, featuring a mellow garlic flavor and fresh cilantro.
How many garlic cloves are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for two full heads of garlic, which are peeled and simmered until soft.
How many onions do I need?
You will need 4 large onions, finely diced, for this soup.
Is this soup vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, based on the ingredients list including garlic, onions, water, butter, cream, and cilantro, it is vegetarian.
What is the primary liquid base for the soup?
The base begins with 5 cups of water which is later enriched with heavy cream.
How much heavy cream is required?
The recipe uses 2 cups of heavy cream to achieve its silky texture.
How should the garlic be prepared?
The garlic cloves should be separated from the heads and thoroughly peeled before cooking.
How long does the soup need to simmer?
The soup should simmer gently for 30 minutes once it reaches a boil.
Should the saucepan be covered while simmering?
Yes, you should cover the saucepan and allow the soup to simmer gently for even cooking.
When do I add the butter?
Add the butter after the 30-minute simmer and after the garlic cloves have been broken up.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 8 people.
Can I use an immersion blender for this recipe?
Yes, an immersion blender can be used to carefully break up and incorporate the garlic cloves into the soup.
How is the cilantro used in this dish?
Fresh chopped cilantro is used as a garnish to add a burst of vibrant taste and brightness before serving.
What heat setting should be used to bring the soup to a boil?
Set the saucepan over medium-high heat to bring the mixture to a initial boil.
What kind of texture does the soup have?
The soup has a creamy and silky texture thanks to the heavy cream and blended garlic.
Is this soup a traditional Cuban dish?
It is inspired by traditional Cuban cuisine flavors.
Should the soup be served hot or cold?
This soup is best served hot to enjoy its comforting flavors.
How do I ensure the garlic flavor isn't too sharp?
Simmering the garlic for 30 minutes transforms it into a mellow and sweet flavor.
What should I do if the soup sticks to the pan?
Stir the mixture occasionally during the simmering process to prevent sticking.
Can this be served as a main dish?
Yes, it is hearty enough to be served as a satisfying main dish or an appetizer.
How much butter is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of butter.
How should the onions be cut?
The 4 large onions should be finely diced.
Is there any salt or pepper in the ingredient list?
The provided ingredient list focuses on the primary components; you should taste and adjust seasoning at the end.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 6 main ingredients: garlic, onions, water, butter, heavy cream, and cilantro.
How much cilantro should I buy?
You will need approximately 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro.
Do I need to sauté the onions first?
No, the instructions state to combine the diced onions with the garlic and water and bring them to a boil together.
What happens to the garlic after simmering?
After simmering, the cloves are softened and then broken up using a spoon or blender to incorporate into the liquid.
When do I add the heavy cream?
Pour in the heavy cream slowly after the butter has melted, stirring continuously.
Is this soup considered 'comfort food'?
Yes, its rich, creamy profile and warm garlic notes make it a classic comfort food.
What is the first step in making this soup?
The first step is separating and peeling the cloves from two heads of garlic.