Spanish Cuisine

Ajo Blanco: Chilled Spanish Almond and Garlic Soup with Grapes – Spanish Special

183 Views

Ajo Blanco: Chilled Spanish Almond and Garlic Soup with Grapes – Spanish Special

Ajo Blanco is a traditional Spanish chilled soup that hails from the Andalusian region. This refreshing dish is made with almonds, garlic, bread, olive oil, and vinegar, creating a creamy and flavorful soup perfect for warm weather. The addition of grapes provides a delightful contrast of sweetness, making this dish a unique and delicious experience. Ajo Blanco is not only simple to prepare but also a fantastic way to enjoy a light yet satisfying meal. Let’s dive into this delightful Spanish classic
  • Prep Time15 min
  • Total Time15 min

For the Soup:

  • 1 cup blanched almonds
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups stale white bread, crusts removed and torn into pieces
  • 3 cups cold water
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup seedless green grapes, halved (for garnish)

For Garnish:

  • Extra virgin olive oil (drizzle)
  • Sliced almonds (optional)
  • Fresh green grapes, halved

Prepare the Ingredients:

1

Soak the torn bread in 1 cup of cold water for a few minutes until softened.

Blend the Soup:

2

In a blender, combine blanched almonds, garlic, soaked bread (with water), remaining 2 cups of water, olive oil, vinegar, and salt.
Blend until smooth and creamy.

3

If the soup is too thick, add a little more cold water to achieve the desired consistency.

Chill:

4

Transfer the soup to a bowl or container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to develop.

Serve:

5

Ladle the chilled Ajo Blanco into bowls.

6

Garnish with halved green grapes, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and sliced almonds if desired.
Serve cold and enjoy

Recipe Notes :

Almond Choice : Use blanched almonds for a smoother texture. If using raw almonds, blanch and peel them before blending.

Bread Selection : Use day-old white bread for better absorption and a creamy consistency.

Garlic Intensity : Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference for a milder or stronger flavor.

Serving:  Ajo Blanco pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light Spanish tapas spread.

You may also like