Springtime is the perfect time to go foraging for wild garlic. You’ll often spot it carpeting the floor of forests and woodlands, easy to recognise by its long, shiny, vivid green leaves and pretty white star-shaped flowers. Give a leaf a gentle rub between your fingers and you’ll get that unmistakable garlicky smell straight away.
Picking wild garlic is a lovely outdoor activity to do with the kids – just remember to bring a bag along. Once you’re home with your haul, this wild garlic soup recipe is a really easy way to turn it into something delicious.
A quick foraging note
If you’re new to foraging, make sure you can positively identify wild garlic before you pick it, as some plants can look similar. The strong garlic smell when you crush a leaf is a good way to check. If you’re ever unsure, it’s best to buy wild garlic from a shop or market instead.
Ingredients
- 1 onion
- A few potatoes
- Chicken or vegetable stock, about ½ pint
- Bunch of wild garlic leaves
- Handful of baby spinach leaves
- Cream or milk
- Feta cheese (optional)
The spinach and potatoes soften the flavour of the soup, so even kids who find garlic a bit strong tend to enjoy it.
Method
1. Chop the onion and potatoes.
2. Fry the onion gently in a little olive oil for a few minutes until softened.
3. Add the potatoes, wild garlic and spinach leaves, and stir until the leaves have wilted. Then add the stock.
4. Bring to the boil, then reduce to a simmer and blend until smooth.
5. Stir in a little cream or milk for a smoother texture.
6. Crumble some feta cheese on top before serving, if you like.
That’s it – a simple, seasonal soup that makes the most of your wild garlic picking trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does wild garlic taste like?
Wild garlic has a milder, slightly greener flavour than regular garlic bulbs. It’s more herby and less pungent, which is why it works so well in a soup.
Can I freeze wild garlic soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, and use it within a few months for the best flavour.
Can I use spinach instead of wild garlic if I can’t find any?
You can, though you’ll lose that distinctive wild garlic flavour. If wild garlic isn’t in season or available near you, a mix of spinach and a clove or two of regular garlic will give a similar soft, savoury soup.
When is wild garlic in season?
Wild garlic typically appears in spring, so keep an eye out on woodland walks during that time of year.
You might also enjoy
If you liked this recipe, why not try our 16 Splendid Soup Recipes that the Kids Will Love for more family-friendly soup ideas, or use up any extra wild garlic in our Wild Garlic Pesto recipe.
Save this for your next foraging trip
Heading out on a wild garlic hunt this spring? Save this recipe now so it’s ready to go as soon as you’re home with your basket full of leaves.
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Have you tried making wild garlic soup? We’d love to hear how it turned out – let us know in the comments below.
