Few dishes capture the essence of comfort like a classic French Onion Soup. Its rich, savory broth is layered with the deep caramelized sweetness of onions, the sharp tang of Gruyère, and the satisfying crunch of toasted bread. Whether for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will guide you through creating a bowl of restaurant-quality goodness that feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional, for enhanced caramelization)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, for deglazing)
- 6 cups beef broth (or a mix of beef and chicken broth for balance)
- 1 sprig fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
- 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese (or a mix of Gruyère and Parmesan)
Equipment Needed
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Baking sheet for toasting bread
- Oven-safe soup bowls or ramekins