French Onion Soup
French Onion Soup is one of the most iconic and comforting dishes in French cuisine, offering a delicious blend of sweet caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and gooey melted cheese. The combination of flavors makes this soup hearty and satisfying, perfect for cold days or as an elegant starter for a special meal.
The secret to a great French Onion Soup lies in the slow caramelization of the onions, which brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor, balanced by the savory richness of the broth and the creamy, melted Gruyère cheese on top. Traditionally served with crusty baguette slices, this soup is a true French classic that has stood the test of time.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to make a traditional, flavor-packed French Onion Soup that is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to help caramelize the onions)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or dry sherry (optional, for deglazing)
- 6 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 2 cups Gruyère cheese, grated (you can also use Swiss cheese or a mix of both)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions
Caramelize the Onions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to coat the onions in the butter and oil. Cook the onions slowly for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply golden brown and caramelized. If the onions are browning too quickly, reduce the heat. You can add 1 tsp of sugar at this stage to help enhance the caramelization, though this is optional.
Deglaze the Pot
Once the onions are fully caramelized, increase the heat slightly and pour in the white wine or sherry to deglaze the pot. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot as the liquid evaporates. This step adds an extra layer of flavor to the soup.
Add the Broth and Herbs
After deglazing, add the beef broth to the pot, along with the fresh thyme sprigs and the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Prepare the Baguette Topping
While the soup is simmering, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, until they are crispy and golden brown. Set them aside.
Assemble and Broil
When you’re ready to serve, ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls or crocks. Place 1-2 toasted baguette slices on top of each bowl of soup, then generously sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese over the bread. You can also add some Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Place the bowls under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Be sure to keep an eye on the soup to prevent the cheese from burning.
Serve
Carefully remove the bowls from the broiler and serve your French Onion Soup immediately, while the cheese is still gooey and melted. Garnish with a few fresh thyme leaves if desired, and enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this comforting classic.
Chef’s Note
Onions: Yellow onions are the best choice for French Onion Soup because of their balance between sweetness and sharpness, but you can also use a mix of onions for added depth. Red onions or shallots can add a more complex flavor profile if desired.
Broth Choice: Traditional French Onion Soup uses beef broth, which adds a deep, savory richness to the dish. However, for a vegetarian version, you can use a rich vegetable broth. If you want an extra layer of umami flavor in the vegetarian option, try adding a splash of soy sauce or tamari to the broth.
Cheese Variations: Gruyère is the classic choice for French Onion Soup because of its smooth meltability and nutty flavor. If you can’t find Gruyère, Swiss cheese or even mozzarella can work in a pinch. For an extra punch, you can mix in some Parmesan or aged cheddar.
Make It Ahead: This soup is great for meal prep as the flavors only improve over time. You can make the soup base ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the soup, prepare the baguette slices, and broil with cheese just before serving.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Calcium: 30% of daily value
- Iron: 15% of daily value
- Vitamin C: 10% of daily value
- Vitamin A: 15% of daily value
French Onion Soup is a flavorful, hearty dish, and although it’s rich with cheese and butter, it offers a balance of carbs, fats, and proteins. The onions provide fiber and antioxidants, while the cheese adds calcium and other essential nutrients.
Conclusion
French Onion Soup is a timeless classic, offering a perfect blend of sweet, caramelized onions, savory broth, and melted cheese. This comforting, indulgent dish is ideal for a special dinner or a cozy night in. With its rich flavors and gooey topping, it’s no wonder this soup has become a favorite worldwide. Serve it alongside a simple green salad or enjoy it on its own for a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
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