Get ready to indulge in a bowl of comfort with this delightful French Onion Soup! This classic recipe combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions, savory broth, and gooey cheese topping, making it the perfect dish for a cozy evening at home. Let’s dive into the culinary magic of this timeless favorite!
French Onion Soup
This French Onion Soup bursts with flavor and warmth. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that can elevate any dinner. The duo of deeply caramelized onions and beef broth results in a deeply satisfying taste that your family and friends will love. Serve it as a starter or as a main, and don’t forget the crusty bread for dipping!
Ingredients
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 8 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tbsp dried thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- French baguette, sliced
- 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese (you can also mix it with mozzarella)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 30-40 minutes.
- Once the onions are beautifully browned, pour in the white wine (if using) and cook for an additional 5 minutes, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze and allow the flavors to mingle.
- Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for an additional 20-30 minutes. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- While the soup simmers, prepare the French baguette slices. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.
- Once the soup is ready, remove the bay leaf and ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a slice of toasted baguette on top of each bowl, and generously sprinkle with Gruyere cheese.
- Broil the bowls in the oven on high for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and enjoy your homemade French Onion Soup with a sprinkle of fresh thyme!
This French Onion Soup recipe is sure to impress and warm the hearts of everyone at your table. Bon appétit!