Creating the perfect Country French Garlic Soup is a delightful experience when you follow these straightforward steps:

1. Sauté the Garlic and Onion: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until the onion turns translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. Add Broth: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add the thyme leaves and bay leaves. Stir well and bring to a boil.

3. Simmer the Soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld perfectly.

4. Blend the Soup: After simmering, remove the bay leaves. Use an immersion blender or a countertop blender to purée the soup until smooth.

5. Stir in Cream: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through over low heat.

6. Prepare for Serving: Ensure the soup is warm and ready to serve, allowing it to simmer gently for a few additional minutes.

7. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread or croutons on the side.

These simple steps will guide you in crafting a beautiful batch of Country French Garlic Soup that is not only delicious but also a comforting delight.