Deb's Garlic Soup

This delicious soup is very easy to make and is a treat anytime, especially if you are on the mend. Garlic is known for its healing properties, and when heated in a soup base, is very palatable. The flavorful toasted bread cubes give this soup that luxury "comfort food" quality.

Ingredients

• 1 large head elephant garlic
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened, or to taste
• 4 slices bread
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, or to taste
• 1 pinch smoked paprika, or to taste
• Himalayan sea salt to taste
• 1 pinch lemon-pepper seasoning, or to taste

Steps

1. Peel and chop garlic. Transfer to a medium saucepan, add chicken broth, and bring to a slight boil. Remove soup from the heat and cover with a lid; let stand for 10 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, butter bread slices and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and paprika. Place in a toaster oven and toast on the medium setting (5 or 6) until crusty-just don't burn it. Remove toast from the oven and use a serrated knife to cut into small cubes.
3. Divide bread cubes between 4 soup bowls. Sprinkle with sea salt and lemon-pepper seasoning. Use a ladle to stir soup, then scoop broth and garlic pieces and fill the bowls. Stir until bread cubes are well mixed, then serve.