Creamy Garlic Soup

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 
• 2 small heads garlic, smashed and peeled, plus 3 cloves, thinly sliced (if using as a garnish)  
• 1 small onion, chopped 
• 1 cup dry white wine 
• 2 sprigs thyme 
• 1 bay leaf 
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper 
• 1 piece Parmesan cheese rind, plus 1/2 cup grated Parmesan 
• 2 cups cubed day-old crusty bread 
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• Fresh dill, for topping

 Preparation

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the smashed garlic and onion and cook, stirring, until soft and lightly golden, about 8 minutes.
2. Add the wine, thyme, bay leaf, 1/2 teaspoon salt, pepper to taste and the cheese rind. Bring to a simmer and cook until reduced by half, about 5 minutes.
3. Add 5 cups water, reduce the heat to low and bring to a gentle simmer; cook until the garlic is very soft, about 30 minutes. Remove from the heat, add the bread and let soak, 10 minutes.
4. Remove the thyme, bay leaf and cheese rind from the saucepan; stir in the grated cheese, sour cream and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
5. Transfer the soup to a blender in batches and puree until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. If using garlic as a garnish, combine the remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil, the sliced garlic and a pinch of salt in a skillet over low heat; cook until the garlic is golden and crisp, 12 to 15 minutes.
7. Divide the soup among bowls. Top with the fried garlic, some of the garlic oil, and dill.