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French Onion Soup

French Onion Soup
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French Onion Soup is a classic French comfort dish featuring slow-caramelized yellow onions, rich beef broth, toasted baguette slices, and a generous melted Gruyère cheese topping. This hearty and savory soup blends deep sweetness with savory depth, delivering soul-soothing warmth and irresistible textures perfect for chilly days or anytime you crave a cozy homemade meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 4–5 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1–2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Liquids

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup dry white wine or sherry
  • 6 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)

Breads and Cheese

  • Baguette slices, toasted (or gluten-free bread for gluten-free option)
  • 1.5 cups grated Gruyère cheese (or Swiss, Emmental, Fontina, mozzarella alternatives)

Instructions

  1. Slice and Caramelize the Onions: Thinly slice yellow onions. Slowly cook them in butter over low heat, stirring frequently, until they become soft, deeply golden, and caramelized. This process takes about 45 minutes to an hour and is essential for developing rich, sweet flavor.
  2. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in dry white wine or sherry to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds acidity and depth to the soup.
  3. Add Broth and Herbs: Add beef broth along with fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for at least 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Prepare the Bread: Slice a baguette and toast the pieces until crisp. These will be placed atop the soup later for texture and flavor absorption.
  5. Assemble and Broil: Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Place toasted bread slices on top, then pile grated Gruyère cheese over the bread. Broil in the oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Patience is key: Take time to caramelize onions properly for rich flavor.
  • Use high-quality broth for deeper taste.
  • Never skip deglazing to enhance complexity.
  • Watch cheese closely under broiler to avoid burning.
  • Preheat serving bowls to keep soup warm longer.

Nutrition

Keywords: French Onion Soup, caramelized onions, Gruyère cheese, comfort food, soup, French cuisine, appetizer, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/french-onion-soup/