French Onion Soup

French Onion Soup is a timeless classic, known for its rich, savory broth filled with deeply caramelized onions and topped with a crusty piece of bread and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for cold weather or as a comforting starter, this soup delivers hearty flavors that are both simple and elegant, making it a favorite for cozy dinners and special occasions alike.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

yellow onionsunsalted butterolive oilbeef brothchicken brothdry white winesaltblack pepperfresh thymebay leaffrench baguettegruyère cheese (or swiss cheese)

directions

In a large pot, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat.

Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 30-40 minutes.

Sprinkle a little salt and pepper over the onions as they cook.

Deglaze the pot with the dry white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

Add the beef broth, chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaf.

Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20-30 minutes to deepen the flavors.

Preheat your oven’s broiler.

Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place a slice of baguette on top of each, and sprinkle generously with grated Gruyère cheese.

Place the bowls under the broiler until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Serve immediately with extra bread on the side if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 1 hour 15 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Use vegetable broth for a lighter vegetarian version.

Swap Gruyère cheese with provolone or mozzarella for a milder taste.

Add a splash of brandy or cognac before simmering for extra depth.

Include a touch of Worcestershire sauce for a richer umami flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover soup (without the bread and cheese) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop until simmering.Top with fresh bread and cheese before broiling again to serve.

FAQs

Can I caramelize the onions faster?

Low and slow cooking is best for deep flavor, but adding a pinch of sugar can help speed up caramelization slightly.

Can I freeze French Onion Soup?

Yes, freeze the soup without the bread and cheese topping for up to 3 months.

What type of onions are best?

Yellow onions are traditional, but sweet onions can add an extra layer of flavor.

Is it necessary to use two types of broth?

Combining beef and chicken broth gives the soup a balanced, robust flavor, but you can use just beef broth if preferred.

Do I have to use oven-safe bowls?

Yes, to safely broil the cheese topping without damaging the bowls.

Can I make it alcohol-free?

Simply skip the wine and deglaze with a little broth or water instead.

How do I prevent soggy bread?

Use day-old bread and toast it before adding to the soup.

What cheese melts best for topping?

Gruyère is ideal for its flavor and melting properties, but Swiss or Emmental work well too.

Can I add garlic?

Yes, sauté minced garlic with the onions for extra flavor.

Should I cover the pot while simmering?

Leave it uncovered to allow the flavors to concentrate.

Conclusion

French Onion Soup is a luxurious yet comforting dish that captures the essence of simple ingredients elevated through careful cooking. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, its combination of sweet caramelized onions, savory broth, and cheesy topping creates an unforgettable culinary experience. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen

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