Classic French Onion Soup

Classic French Onion Soup

Introduction

French Onion Soup is a timeless and comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table.

With its deeply caramelized onions, savory beef broth, and gooey melted cheese over toasted bread, it’s no wonder this soup is loved worldwide.

This recipe captures the authentic taste of a classic French Onion Soup, perfect for cozy dinners or as a starter for a special meal.

Simple yet elegant, this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy the rich, complex flavors of French cuisine.

Ingredients

4 large onions, thinly sliced

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon flour

6 cups beef broth

1/2 cup white wine (optional)

1-2 bay leaves

Salt and pepper to taste

1 French baguette, sliced

1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Caramelize the Onions: In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. This step is crucial for the soup’s depth of flavor, so be patient!

Add Flour and Deglaze: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This will help thicken the soup slightly. If using, pour in the white wine and cook for a few minutes until the liquid reduces, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pot.

Simmer the Soup: Add the beef broth and bay leaves to the pot. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for about 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove the bay leaves.

Prepare the Toast: While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven’s broiler. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them under the broiler until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.

Assemble and Broil: Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a toasted baguette slice on top of each bowl, then sprinkle generously with shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese. Place the bowls under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Garnish and Serve: Carefully remove the bowls from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve the soup hot.

Conclusion

This Classic French Onion Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress.

The slow-caramelized onions and rich beef broth create a deep, savory base, while the gooey cheese and crispy bread add satisfying texture and taste.

Perfect for a chilly evening or as a special appetizer, this soup will bring warmth to your home and joy to your taste buds.

Enjoy every spoonful of this French delight, and savor the taste of tradition in each bite!