Country French Garlic Soup

### Instructions:

1. **Sauté the Aromatics**: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant without browning.

2. **Add the Broth and Potatoes**: Once the garlic is fragrant, add the vegetable or chicken broth to the pot along with the diced potatoes. The potatoes help give the soup a creamy consistency, making it more filling. Stir in the dried thyme and bay leaf. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

3. **Simmer**: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. The potatoes should be tender and the garlic should have mellowed into the broth, infusing it with a rich flavor.

4. **Add the Wine**: Once the potatoes are cooked through, stir in the white wine (if using) and allow it to cook for another 5-10 minutes. The wine will help add acidity and complexity to the soup, balancing the richness of the garlic.

5. **Blend the Soup**: For a smooth, velvety texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can blend just part of the mixture. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender, then return it to the pot.

6. **Add Cream (Optional)**: For a creamier version, stir in the heavy cream or milk at this point. This step is optional, but it does give the soup a velvety texture that is deliciously rich. You can also skip this if you prefer a lighter soup.

7. **Prepare the Toasted Bread**: While the soup is simmering, toast the slices of French baguette until they are golden and crisp. You can lightly rub the toasted bread with a clove of garlic for extra flavor, or leave them plain for a more subtle crunch.

8. **Serve and Garnish**: To serve, ladle the garlic soup into bowls and top each bowl with a slice of the toasted bread. If desired, sprinkle with grated Gruyère or Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.

### Tips for the Perfect French Garlic Soup:
– **Adjust Garlic Levels**: While this soup calls for a generous amount of garlic, feel free to adjust the amount based on your preferences. You can reduce the garlic for a milder flavor or increase it if you love a stronger taste.
– **Use Day-Old Bread**: Stale, day-old bread works best in this soup, as it soaks up the liquid without falling apart too quickly.
– **Vegan Version**: To make the soup vegan, simply omit the cream and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The soup will still be full of flavor without the dairy.
– **Flavor Enhancements**: A splash of sherry or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving can take this soup to the next level. You can also experiment with adding a bit of rosemary or sage for a slightly different flavor profile.

### Why This Soup is Perfect for Any Occasion:
Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner, hosting a cozy gathering, or seeking something comforting to ward off the chill of fall and winter, *Country French Garlic Soup* offers warmth, flavor, and simplicity. It’s a dish that has stood the test of time for good reason—it’s nourishing, easy to make, and incredibly satisfying. The balance of garlic, herbs, and creaminess makes it the ultimate comfort food, perfect for dipping crusty bread and enjoying alongside a glass of wine.

So, next time you’re in the mood for something rustic, flavorful, and wholesome, give this French classic a try—you won’t be disappointed. Enjoy the warm embrace of Country French Garlic Soup, and savor every garlicky, comforting bite!