Classic French Onion Soup

Classic French Onion Soup is a warm and comforting dish that is perfect for chilly days. This soup is rich with flavors of caramelized onions, savory beef broth, and topped with melted Gruyère cheese. It’s a classic dish that can be enjoyed as a starter or a light meal.

Why Make This Recipe There are many reasons to make Classic French Onion Soup. First, it’s a simple and delicious way to use onions. The slow caramelization transforms the onions into sweet and flavorful pieces. Second, the combination of broth and cheese creates a delightful harmony in every spoonful. Finally, it’s great for gatherings or a cozy night in to impress family and friends.

How to Make Classic French Onion Soup

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet onions, sliced thin
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups Gruyère cheese, grated
• 1 cup white wine (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to help caramelize the onions)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 slices of baguette or other bread (for crostini)
• Fresh thyme (for garnish, optional)

Directions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes until the onions are caramelized and golden brown.

2. Next, add the white wine (if using) to the pot. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Cook for another 5 minutes.

3. After that, pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

4. While the soup is simmering, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the slices of bread on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until crispy and golden, about 5-7 minutes.

5. To serve, ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of toasted bread, and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese.

6. Place the bowls under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you like, garnish with fresh thyme.

7. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting French onion soup!

How to Serve Classic French Onion Soup Serve Classic French Onion Soup hot, straight from the oven. It is best enjoyed with a side salad or as a starter. The melted cheese on top is usually the star, so make sure to scoop some with every bite!

How to Store Classic French Onion Soup If you have leftovers, let the soup cool before storing. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, keep the soup and the toasted bread separate. The soup will last in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Tips to Make Classic French Onion Soup

• Pay attention to the onions while cooking; stirring helps them caramelize evenly.
• If you want a deeper flavor, cooking the onions a little longer can help.
• Make sure not to skip the toasting of the bread; it adds a lovely crunchy texture.

Variation (If Any) You can add some other herbs, like rosemary or bay leaves, while the soup simmers for an extra layer of flavor. Some recipes also call for adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy bite.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can use mozzarella or cheddar, but Gruyère gives the best flavor.

2. Is it okay to use canned broth? Yes, canned beef broth works well if you don’t have homemade broth.

3. Can I make this soup vegetarian? Yes! You can substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and skip the butter. Just use olive oil instead!