Immune-Boosting Garlic Broth

Ingredients:

• 5 garlic cloves, peeled
• 4 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish, lemon juice for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Garlic:
   • Peel the 5 garlic cloves and set them aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
   • In a medium-sized pan or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
3. Boil Garlic:
   • Add the garlic cloves to the pot and stir for a minute until fragrant but not browned.
4. Add Broth and Herbs:
   • Pour in the water or vegetable broth.
   • Add the thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer:
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, allowing the garlic and vegetables to infuse their flavors into the broth.
6. Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaf before serving. You can either serve the broth as is or blend it to create a smooth, creamy texture.
   • Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor and nutrition.

Benefits:

This simple broth, with boiled garlic as the star, can help boost your immune system, aid digestion, and provide a warm, soothing remedy for colds or flu. The garlic also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great base for a healing soup.