In this recipe, I use approximately 20-25 cloves of garlic. I use the cloves whole, but you can mince or slice them to your preference. Don't be afraid to try garlic soup if you've never had it. It isn't nearly as intense as you'd think. The soup can be served many ways: I served mine over tri-flavored pasta, butter beans and topped it with cheese while my boyfriend ate his with sesame seeds, lemon juice, soy sauce, and Thai basil.