Appetizer

French Onion Soup

French Onion Soup is a rich, savory dish made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and a layer of melted cheese atop a toasted baguette. This comforting soup combines deep, complex flavors with a golden, cheesy crust, capturing the essence of French cuisine. Ideal for a cozy appetizer or a warming main course on chilly days.

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French Onion Soup

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Easy French Onion Soup Recipe

Flavorful French Onion Soup Recipe

French Onion Soup is a classic French dish that combines deeply caramelized onions with a savory beef broth, creating a comforting and flavorful soup topped with a crispy, cheesy baguette. This rich and satisfying soup is a staple of French cuisine, perfect for chilly days when you crave something warm and hearty. The unique combination of sweet onions and savory broth, topped with Gruyère cheese and crusty bread, makes this soup a favorite around the world.

Making French Onion Soup at home is easy with a few key ingredients and some patience to achieve perfectly caramelized onions. Start by slowly cooking the onions with butter until they turn a deep golden brown, enhancing their natural sweetness. Adding a splash of wine and beef broth brings a depth of flavor, while fresh thyme and bay leaves infuse the soup with a subtle herbal aroma. Once ladled into bowls, the soup is topped with toasted baguette slices and melted cheese, creating a deliciously gooey layer that’s irresistible.

French Onion Soup pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or a glass of red wine, making it a versatile option for dinner or an impressive appetizer. This recipe can be adapted to suit vegetarian diets by substituting vegetable broth for beef broth. Whether served as a main course or a starter, French Onion Soup brings a taste of French bistro dining to your kitchen, with each spoonful delivering a blend of rich flavors and comforting warmth.

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FAQs for Eggplant Parmesan

1. What type of onions are best for French Onion Soup?
Yellow onions are typically best for French Onion Soup due to their balance of sweetness and flavor, which deepens when caramelized. However, white or sweet onions can also work well for added sweetness.

2. Can I make French Onion Soup vegetarian?
Yes, French Onion Soup can be made vegetarian by substituting vegetable broth for beef broth. This still delivers a rich and savory flavor while making the soup suitable for vegetarian diets.

3. How do I get the onions perfectly caramelized?
To caramelize onions perfectly, cook them low and slow in butter for at least 30-40 minutes, stirring frequently. This process brings out the onions' natural sweetness and enhances the depth of flavor in the soup.

4. What cheese is best for French Onion Soup?
Gruyère cheese is traditionally used for French Onion Soup because it melts well and has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor. Emmental or Swiss cheese are also good alternatives if Gruyère isn’t available.

5. Can French Onion Soup be made ahead of time?
Yes, French Onion Soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup and prepare fresh cheese-topped baguettes to serve for the best texture and flavor.

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Recipe

Enjoy the rich, comforting taste of French Onion Soup with caramelized onions, savory broth, and a golden cheesy baguette topping.

Course:
Appetizer
COOKing TIME:
60 minutes
Total TIME:
75 minutes
CUISINE:
French
PREP TIME:
15 minutes
SERVINGS:
4-6

Ingredients

For the Soup:

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 6 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

  • 1 French baguette, sliced
  • 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese

Ingredient Swaps

  • Substitute vegetable broth for beef broth for a vegetarian soup.
  • Use dairy-free cheese for a vegan-friendly option.

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Thinly slice the onions. Measure out the beef broth, wine, and butter. Slice the baguette and grate the Gruyère cheese for the topping.
  2. Caramelize Onions: In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring frequently, for 30-40 minutes until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown.
  3. Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the white wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits. Add beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer and cook for another 20-30 minutes to blend flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Prepare the Topping: While the soup simmers, toast baguette slices until golden. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese on each slice and broil until melted and bubbly.
  5. Finish and Serve: Remove thyme sprigs and bay leaf from the soup. Ladle soup into bowls, top with cheesy baguette slices, and serve hot.

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