Looking for a comforting dish that warms the soul? This French Onion Soup Recipe is just what you need! With its rich, caramelized flavors and cheesy topping, it’s a classic that never disappoints. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a special gathering, this soup promises to impress your guests and keep you cozy. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 cups beef broth
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 1 baguette, sliced
– 2 cups Gruyère cheese, grated
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Based on a serving size of 1 bowl (approximately 1.5 cups), this French onion soup contains about 300 calories, 15g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 10g of protein. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Melt butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onions, salt, and sugar, stirring occasionally.
3. Cook onions until caramelized, about 30 minutes.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Pour in white wine and let it reduce for 5 minutes.
6. Add beef broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Season with black pepper and adjust salt if needed.
8. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
9. Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls, topping with baguette slices and cheese.
10. Bake for 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Additionally, Swiss cheese can be used in place of Gruyère if preferred.
Serving and Pairings
Serve your French onion soup with a side of mixed greens or a simple salad. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light, dry white wine.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. This soup can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze without the cheese topping.
Cooking Mistakes
- Skipping the caramelization step can lead to bland soup.
- Using fresh onions instead of sweet onions may affect the flavor.
- Not using enough broth will make the soup too thick.
- Overcooking the garlic can lead to a bitter taste.
- Forgetting to season can result in a flat flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of yellow and sweet onions for a deeper flavor.
- For a richer taste, add a splash of sherry or brandy.
- Toast the bread before adding it to the soup for extra texture.
- Make the soup a day ahead for the flavors to meld beautifully.
FAQs
Can I make French onion soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the beef broth with vegetable broth and omit any meat-based ingredients.
How do I store leftover soup?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I freeze French onion soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it’s best to do so without the cheese topping.
What type of cheese is best for topping?
Gruyère cheese is traditional, but Swiss or mozzarella can also be used for a different flavor.
How can I enhance the flavor of the soup?
Adding a splash of sherry or red wine during cooking can enhance the flavor significantly.
Conclusion
This French Onion Soup Recipe is a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy making this delightful dish, and savor every spoonful!
French Onion Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 large onions thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 baguette sliced
- 2 cups Gruyère cheese grated
Instructions
- Melt butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions, salt, and sugar, stirring occasionally.
- Cook onions until caramelized, about 30 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in white wine and let it reduce for 5 minutes.
- Add beef broth and bring to a simmer.
- Season with black pepper and adjust salt if needed.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls, topping with baguette slices and cheese.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
