How to make French Onion Soup ๐Ÿง…๐Ÿง€




This French Onion Soup is a timeless classic, known for its deeply caramelized onions, rich broth, and gooey cheese-topped bread. It's the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy evenings or when you're craving a hearty, flavorful meal. Follow this step-by-step guide to make an authentic bowl of this delicious soup.


Ingredients

For the Soup:

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (to help caramelize the onions)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 6 cups beef broth (or a mix of beef and chicken broth)
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

  • 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyรจre cheese (or Swiss cheese)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

  1. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with sugar. Stir to coat the onions in the fat.
  3. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 30–40 minutes, or until they are deeply golden and caramelized. Reduce the heat if they start to burn.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes.

Step 2: Deglaze the Pot

  1. Pour in the white wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 3: Build the Broth

  1. Add the beef broth, thyme sprigs, and bay leaf to the pot.
  2. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf before serving.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

  1. Preheat your oven's broiler.
  2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast under the broiler for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden.
  3. Top each slice with a generous amount of Gruyรจre and Parmesan cheese. Broil again for 1–2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

  1. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls.
  2. Float a cheesy baguette slice on top of each bowl of soup.
  3. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil for 2–4 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect French Onion Soup

  1. Patience with Caramelizing: Take your time with the onions—the deeper the caramelization, the richer the flavor.
  2. Use Quality Broth: A good beef broth adds depth and makes the soup more flavorful.
  3. Cheese Choice: Gruyรจre is traditional, but you can use Swiss, mozzarella, or a mix for variety.
  4. Make Ahead: The soup base can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving. Add the bread and cheese topping just before serving.

Why You’ll Love It

This French Onion Soup is:

  • Rich and Savory: Caramelized onions and broth create an irresistible depth of flavor.
  • Warm and Comforting: Perfect for cold days or when you need a hearty meal.
  • Indulgent: The cheesy, crusty bread topping takes it to the next level.
  • Elegant Yet Simple: Great for casual meals or special occasions.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a simple green salad for a light, balanced meal.
  • Enjoy with a glass of dry white wine or red wine to complement the flavors.
  • Serve as an appetizer before a main course like roasted chicken or steak.