Recipe: Česnečka (Czech Garlic Soup)

From time to time, our friends at Viking River Cruises are nice enough to share the recipe to one of the amazing dishes served in their spectacular dining rooms.

According to Czech lore, Česnečka will cure just about anything, even the common cold. So if you’re feeling a bit under the weather, make a big pot of this simple soup of broth, potatoes, garlic, and cheese to help you feel better. It may not be a cure but it certainly tastes rich and comforting (and keeps the vampires away!)

INGREDIENTS

3 thick slices rye bread, cut into large chunks
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup yellow onion, diced
6 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups low sodium chicken or beef broth
2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper to taste
4 ounces Emmentaler or Swiss cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
2 tablespoons dill, chopped
2 tablespoons flat leaf parsley, chopped

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Place bread chunks on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, tossing to combine. Bake until deep golden brown, about 9 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Place butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic and cook until translucent, stirring frequently until softened, about 3 minutes. Add broth and bring to a boil over high heat. Add potatoes, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
4. Place the croutons and the cheese cubes on the bottom of soup plates. Ladle soup on top. Sprinkle with dill and parsley and serve.

Makes 4 servings.