Description
French Onion Soup is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort, perfect for cold evenings. With caramelized onions and a rich broth, this classic French soup is easy to make at home. It’s versatile enough for both vegetarians and meat lovers, and it feels like a trip to Paris with each spoonful. Top with melted Gruyère cheese and crusty bread for an irresistible, hearty meal.
Ingredients
- Onions (yellow, white, or red): Choose a mix of onion varieties for complex flavors.
Substitutes: Shallots for a milder taste, sweet onions for a deeper caramelization. - Broth (beef or vegetable): The base of the soup, full of umami flavor.
Substitutes: Chicken stock or mushroom broth for different profiles. - Bread (French baguette or croutons): Thick slices of day-old bread, perfect for soaking up the broth.
Substitutes: Sourdough or any crusty bread you have on hand. - Gruyère cheese: Melts beautifully over the soup, adding a nutty flavor.
Substitutes: Emmental, Swiss, or cheddar cheese. - Sherry or dry white wine: Enhances the depth of flavor.
Substitutes: Apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a non-alcoholic option. - Fresh thyme and bay leaves: Aromatic herbs that build flavor.
Substitutes: Dried thyme or rosemary.
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions
- Slice 5-6 medium onions thinly.
- In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Add the onions and stir to coat them in butter.
- Cook the onions slowly for 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and caramelized. The slower they cook, the sweeter they become.
- Prepare the Broth
- Add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic to the onions and cook for another minute.
- Pour in 1/2 cup of dry white wine (optional) and simmer until reduced by half, about 5 minutes.
- Add 6 cups of beef or vegetable stock, 2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme, and 1 bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the soup simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
- Prepare the Bread and Cheese
- While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice a baguette into thick rounds, brush with olive oil, and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes until crispy.
- Grate 1 1/2 cups of Gruyère cheese (or your preferred cheese) and set aside.
- Assemble the Soup
- Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a toasted bread slice on top of each bowl.
- Generously sprinkle the grated cheese over the bread.
- Place the bowls under a broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Serve and Garnish
- Carefully remove the bowls from the oven (they will be hot!).
- Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy with extra bread on the side if desired.
Notes
This easy French Onion Soup recipe is a cozy, comforting meal that will transport you straight to Paris. The caramelized onions create a rich, flavorful base, while the melted Gruyère cheese and toasted bread provide the perfect finish. Whether you’re looking for a hearty winter dish or a special meal to impress guests, this recipe delivers delicious results every time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stovetop and broiler
- Cuisine: Frensh
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 45mg