Classic French Onion Soup Recipe

This classic French onion soup is a rich and flavorful dish made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and topped with melted cheese. It's perfect for a cozy dinner or as a starter for a special occasion.

The recipe is straightforward and requires basic cooking techniques, making it accessible for home cooks. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients That Make a Difference

The key to a memorable French onion soup lies in its ingredients. Sweet, caramelized onions form the base, providing depth and flavor. The choice of broth is equally important; beef broth adds richness, while a splash of dry white wine can enhance the overall taste.

Gruyère cheese, known for its melting qualities, is the crowning touch. It creates a gooey, golden layer on top of the soup, perfectly complementing the savory broth and toasted bread.

Caramelizing onions is a crucial step that requires patience. Cooking them slowly allows their natural sugars to develop, resulting in a deep, rich flavor. Stirring frequently ensures even cooking and prevents burning.

This process can take around 30 to 40 minutes, but the end result is well worth the wait. The golden-brown onions will form the heart of your soup, providing a sweet and savory foundation.

Serving Suggestions

French onion soup is best enjoyed piping hot, straight from the oven. Serving it in oven-safe bowls allows for the cheese to melt beautifully on top of the toasted baguette.

For an added touch, consider garnishing with fresh thyme or a sprinkle of black pepper. Pairing the soup with a crisp salad or a glass of white wine can elevate the dining experience.

Variations to Try

While the classic recipe is beloved, there are variations worth exploring. Some recipes incorporate different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, for a unique twist.

Vegetarian versions can be made by substituting vegetable broth for beef broth, allowing those who prefer plant-based options to enjoy this comforting dish.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing them is simple. Keep the soup and cheese separate to maintain the texture of the bread. The soup can be refrigerated for a few days, while the cheese should be added just before serving.

When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stove or in the microwave. For a fresh topping, toast new slices of bread and add cheese before broiling for a few minutes to recreate that delightful melted layer.

Traditional French Onion Soup Recipe

This French onion soup features sweet, caramelized onions simmered in a savory broth, topped with toasted bread and melted Gruyère cheese. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 4 people.

Ingredients

• 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 8 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 8 slices of baguette or crusty bread
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are deep golden brown, about 30-40 minutes.
2. Add Broth and Seasoning: Stir in the white wine (if using) and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
3. Prepare the Bread: While the soup simmers, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Serve the Soup: Remove the bay leaf from the soup. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, top each with a slice of toasted bread, and sprinkle with shredded Gruyère cheese.
5. Melt the Cheese: Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil in the oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden, about 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
6. Garnish and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with freshly ground black pepper and additional thyme if desired.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

• Servings: 4 bowls
• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

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