The Quintessential French Onion Soup Recipe

French onion soup is a timeless classic that warms the heart and soul with its rich flavors and comforting textures. Originating from France, this beloved dish has transcended borders and become a staple in many cuisines around the world. This recipe will guide you through creating an authentic French onion soup that’s both simple to make and utterly delicious.

Ingredients

To create the perfect bowl of French onion soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 large onions (preferably yellow or sweet)
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of sugar (to help with caramelization)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 4 cups of beef broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup of dry white wine (for depth of flavor)
• 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme)
• 1 bay leaf
• Baguette slices (for topping)
• 2 cups of grated Gruyère cheese (or a mix of Gruyère and Emmental)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

1. Peel and thinly slice the onions. Aim for even slices so they cook uniformly.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
3. Once the butter has melted, add the sliced onions.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

4. Sprinkle the sugar, salt, and pepper over the onions. Stir to coat.
5. Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, until they turn a deep golden brown. This will take about 30-40 minutes, so patience is key! The longer you cook them, the more complex the flavor will become.

Step 3: Add Liquid and Flavor

6. Once the onions are caramelized, pour in the dry white wine and scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
7. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Bread

8. While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
9. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until they are golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

10. Remove the bay leaf from the soup and taste for seasoning adjustments.
11. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of toasted baguette and generously sprinkle the grated cheese on top.
12. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 2-5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Enjoying Your French Onion Soup

Serve this delightful soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh thyme if desired. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some additional bread for a full meal. Each spoonful combines the savory goodness of caramelized onions, rich broth, and melted cheese, offering a flavor experience that is simply irresistible.

Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Onions: Yellow onions are preferred for their sweetness, but you can mix in some sweet Vidalia or red onions for a unique twist.
• Broth Selection: A high-quality beef broth makes all the difference. If you have homemade broth, use that for unparalleled flavor.
• Cheese Options: Gruyère is traditional, but feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like mozzarella or Fontina for a different flavor profile.

French onion soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience—a dish that brings warmth, comfort, and a sense of home. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and bon appétit!