French Onion Soup is a classic and comforting dish that features the deep, rich flavors of caramelized onions simmered in savory beef broth, enhanced with a splash of white wine. Topped with crusty baguette slices and a generous layer of melted Gruyère cheese, this soup is both hearty and satisfying, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
French Onion Soup
A rich and flavorful soup made with caramelized onions and beef broth, topped with crusty bread and melted cheese. It's comforting and satisfying.
Equipment
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Oven-safe bowls
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup vinegar
- 4 slices of baguette
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 20 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in vinegar, cook until reduced by half.
- Add beef broth, bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to broil.
- Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls, top with baguette slices and cheese.
- Broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with thyme and serve.
Notes
- Caramelizing the Onions: Be patient when caramelizing the onions. This process can take up to 20 minutes, but it’s crucial for developing the rich, sweet flavor that defines French onion soup. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Choosing the Right Onions: Yellow onions are traditionally used for this soup due to their balance of sweetness and acidity. However, you can experiment with a mix of yellow and sweet onions for a more complex flavor.
- Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with additional beef broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a hint of acidity.
- Broth Quality: Using a high-quality beef broth or stock will significantly enhance the soup’s flavor. Homemade broth or a low-sodium store-bought option are excellent choices.
- Cheese Options: Gruyère cheese is the classic choice for French onion soup due to its excellent melting properties and nutty flavor. However, you can also use Swiss cheese or a combination of Gruyère and Parmesan for a different taste.
- Bread Choices: A French baguette is ideal for this recipe because of its firm texture, which holds up well in the soup. Toasting the bread slices before adding them to the soup will help them stay crisp under the broiler.
- Broiling Safety: When broiling the cheese-topped soup, keep a close eye on the oven. The cheese can go from bubbly to burnt very quickly. Broil just until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Serving Tips: Serve the soup immediately after broiling to enjoy the perfect combination of hot soup, melted cheese, and crispy bread. A sprinkle of fresh thyme adds a pleasant aroma and a touch of freshness.
- Storage and Reheating: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop. If you plan to store the soup, it’s best to add the bread and cheese just before serving to prevent sogginess.
- Make it Vegetarian: To make a vegetarian version of this soup, substitute the beef broth with a robust vegetable broth. Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce (if not strictly vegetarian) for an added depth of flavor.
Did you make this recipe?
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