French onion soup is a timeless classic that brings together the sweet, caramelized essence of onions with rich beef broth, topped with melted cheese. This warm, comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, whether as a starter or a main course. Follow this detailed recipe to create a bowl of joy that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon sugar
– 8 cups beef broth
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1 teaspoon thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– 8 slices of French bread
– 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 bowl) contains approximately 350 calories, 15g of fat, 35g of carbohydrates, and 10g of protein. This is based on the ingredients listed above for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a large pot, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and salt, stirring to coat.
- Cook onions for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle sugar over onions and continue cooking until caramelized (about 30 minutes).
- Add white wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze.
- Pour in beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, covered.
- Meanwhile, toast French bread slices until golden.
- Remove bay leaf from soup and ladle soup into oven-safe bowls.
- Top each bowl with toasted bread and grated cheese, then broil until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the Gruyère cheese with Swiss cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor. Additionally, vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version, and caramelized onions can be enhanced with balsamic vinegar for added depth.
Serving and Pairings
French onion soup pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread. For a full meal, serve it alongside a hearty sandwich or a light charcuterie board.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens. This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months, but it’s best to freeze the soup without the cheese topping.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t rush the caramelization of the onions; it takes time for the best flavor.
- Ensure to deglaze the pot to prevent burning bits from affecting the soup.
- Watch the broiler closely; cheese can burn quickly.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the thyme; it adds essential aroma and taste.
Helpful Tips
- Slice onions uniformly for even cooking.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to distribute heat evenly.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
- Make a large batch and freeze portions for later.
FAQs
Can I make French onion soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply substitute beef broth with vegetable broth, and ensure that the cheese is vegetarian-friendly. The caramelized onions provide a rich flavor that makes it satisfying.
How do I store leftover soup?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen, but it’s best to freeze without the cheese topping to maintain texture.
What type of bread is best for topping?
A crusty French baguette or sourdough is ideal for topping French onion soup, as it holds up well when broiled and adds a nice texture.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup base in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the cheese and bread before serving for a fresh taste.
Is this soup healthy?
While rich in flavor, French onion soup can be high in sodium and calories. However, you can lighten it by using low-sodium broth and less cheese.
Conclusion
French onion soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its rich flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a recipe worth mastering. Enjoy every spoonful of this classic comfort food that never goes out of style.
French Onion Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 large onions thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 8 slices of French bread
- 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions
- Melt butter and olive oil over medium heat in a large pot.
- Add sliced onions and salt, stirring to coat.
- Cook onions for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle sugar over onions and continue cooking until caramelized (about 30 minutes).
- Add white wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze.
- Pour in beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, covered.
- Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls.
- Top each bowl with toasted bread and grated cheese, then broil until cheese is bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
