French Onion Soup Recipe
French Onion Soup is a timeless classic that has delighted palates for generations. With its deep, savory flavors and satisfying warmth, it’s no wonder this dish has stood the test of time. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly day or an elegant appetizer for a special occasion, this recipe has you covered.
Ingredients:
Before embarking on your culinary journey, gather the following ingredients:
| INGREDIENTS | QUANTITY |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons plus more for brushing |
| Toasted bread | For serving and croutons |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Yellow onion (large) | 1 kg (approx. 6 onions), thinly sliced |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic cloves | 2, chopped |
| Dry sherry, dry vermouth, or dry white wine | 1/2 cup |
| Stock or beef stock | 8 cups |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Fresh thyme (or dried thyme) | 3 sprigs (or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme) |
| Salt | 1 1/2 tablespoons (divided), or to taste |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste |
| Baguette slices | 12 |
| Gruyere cheese | 8 ounces (1 1/2 cups shredded, divided) |
Instructions:
- Halve a large onion, cut off the ends, peel, and thinly slice the onion parallel to the onion’s core.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of sugar over the onions to expedite caramelization. Continue cooking uncovered for an additional 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown. Stir frequently toward the end to prevent burning.
Adding Flavorful Touches
- Once the onions are caramelized, add the chopped garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Pour in 1/2 cup of dry sherry, dry vermouth, or dry white wine to deglaze the pan. Scrape the bottom of the pan to incorporate all the flavorful bits. Continue stirring until the sherry is fully incorporated (approximately 3 minutes over medium heat).
- Add 8 cups of beef broth, 1 bay leaf, the fresh thyme sprigs (or dried thyme), and 1 teaspoon of salt. Partially cover the pan and let the soup simmer for 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Taste the soup and add another 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, adjusting to your preference. Remove from heat.
Making the Croutons
- Preheat your oven to 400˚F (200˚C). Cut the baguette into 1/2 cm thick slices.
- Lightly brush both sides of the baguette slices with olive oil. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 6-8 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Serving and Enjoying
- Sprinkle half of the shredded Gruyere cheese onto the toasted bread slices. Bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and forms golden dots.
- Ladle the hot French Onion Soup into serving bowls. Top each bowl with the remaining shredded Gruyere cheese.
- Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves and place warm cheese-topped croutons on top.
- Serve the French Onion Soup while it’s hot and indulge in the delightful blend of flavors and textures. Enjoy every spoonful!
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of onions should I use for French Onion Soup?
The best onions to use for French Onion Soup are yellow onions. They have a balanced flavor and sweeten beautifully when caramelized, adding richness to the soup.
Can I use a different type of cheese for the topping?
While Gruyere cheese is traditionally used for its nutty and slightly sweet flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Swiss, Emmental, or even a blend for a unique twist.
Is it necessary to use dry sherry or wine in the recipe?
Dry sherry, vermouth, or dry white wine adds depth and complexity to the soup. If you prefer, you can omit it, but it does enhance the overall flavor profile.
How do I prevent the onions from burning while caramelizing?
Caramelizing onions takes time and patience. Use a heavy-bottomed pan to distribute heat evenly, stir frequently especially as they cook down, and lower the heat if necessary.
Can I make this soup vegetarian-friendly?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the beef stock with vegetable stock, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version of French Onion Soup.
Can I make the croutons ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the croutons in advance and store them in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven before serving to regain their delightful crunch.
Congratulations, you’ve mastered the art of creating a delectable French Onion Soup from scratch! This iconic dish brings together the sweetness of caramelized onions, the depth of flavorful broth, and the irresistible allure of gooey melted cheese. Whether enjoyed as a comforting meal or an impressive starter, French Onion Soup is a true masterpiece that will never go out of style. Bon appétit!
