French Onion Soup Recipe

byAdmin •



French Onion Soup is a classic dish that has been cherished for generations. This recipe has been perfected over the years, combining rich, caramelized onions with a robust beef broth, topped with gooey, melted Gruyere cheese. Whether you’re a fan of traditional French cuisine or simply love a hearty, comforting soup, this recipe is sure to impress. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to make the best French Onion Soup, along with tips and variations to make it your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: With a few simple tips, you can significantly cut down the cooking time without compromising on flavor.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare this soup in advance to enjoy a stress-free meal when entertaining guests.
  • Perfect Balance of Flavors: The right combination of onions and sherry ensures a harmonious blend of sweet and savory.
  • Versatile: Ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or elegant brunches.
  • Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, flavorful broth.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp olive oil, plus more to brush toasts
  • 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 lbs yellow onions (about 6 large onions), halved, peeled, and thinly sliced with the grain
  • 1/2 tsp granulated sugar
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry sherry wine (or use dry vermouth or dry white wine)
  • 8 cups beef stock (or broth)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme (plus more to garnish) or 1/4 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste), divided
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
  • 12 slices baguette
  • 8 oz Gruyere cheese (1 1/2 cups shredded), divided

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Baking sheet
  • Oven-safe bowls
  • Ladle

Directions

Preheat and Prepare

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Brush the baguette slices with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven until golden brown, about 10 minutes.

Main Cooking Steps

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted.
  • Add the sliced onions and sugar. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are deeply caramelized, about 25-30 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes.
  • Pour in the sherry wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Cook until the wine is reduced by half.
  • Add the beef stock, bay leaf, thyme, 1 tsp salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Final Steps

  • Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  • Preheat your broiler. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls and top each with a toasted baguette slice.
  • Sprinkle the Gruyere cheese over the top and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 3-5 minutes.
  • Garnish with fresh thyme and serve hot.

Tips and Variations

Customizing the Recipe

  • Substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • Use different types of cheese, such as Swiss or Emmental, for a unique twist.

Cooking Method Alternatives

  • For a slow cooker version, caramelize the onions on the stovetop first, then transfer to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Dietary Modifications

  • Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option.

Storing Leftovers

Storage

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if the soup has thickened too much.

Freezing

French Onion Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Food and Drink Pairings

Side Dishes

Serve with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.

Suitable Drinks

Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, a light red wine like Pinot Noir, or a non-alcoholic option like sparkling water with lemon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze French Onion Soup?

Yes, it freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

How do I know when the onions are caramelized?

The onions should be deeply golden brown and very soft. This process takes about 25-30 minutes.

Can I use a different type of onion?

Yellow onions are preferred, but white or sweet onions can also be used.

Call to Action

Try this French Onion Soup recipe and let us know how it turned out! Share your photos and tips in the comments below. Enjoy a bowl of this savory delight and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!

Previous Post Next Post