Comfort food at its finest, French Onion Soup is a delightful blend of savory flavors and rich textures. This classic dish warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds, making it a go-to recipe for chilly evenings. Let’s dive into how you can prepare this iconic French delight in your own kitchen!
French Onion Soup
This French Onion Soup is not only easy to make but also a perfect way to impress your family and friends. The combination of caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and gooey melted cheese creates a satisfying meal that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- French baguette, sliced
- 2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat the onions well.
- Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown. Sprinkle in the sugar halfway through to enhance the caramelization.
- Once the onions are caramelized, add the dry white wine (if using) and scrape the bottom of the pot to release any brown bits. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth, add the thyme and bay leaf, and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes to blend the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes until golden brown.
- To serve, ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of toasted baguette and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese.
- Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Keep a close eye to ensure it doesn’t burn!
- Carefully remove from the oven and let cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy this warm, cheesy delight with a side salad or a glass of white wine!
This hearty French Onion Soup is sure to become a favorite in your home. It’s perfect for both special occasions and casual evenings in. Dive into this delightful dish and savor the warmth and flavor with every spoonful!