Classic French Onion Soup Recipe

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Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

  1. Cook Onions:
    • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they become soft and translucent, about 10 minutes.
  2. Caramelize:
    • Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are deeply caramelized and brown. Add the sugar halfway through to help with caramelization.
  3. Add Garlic:
    • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Make the Soup Base

  1. Add Flour:
    • Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes to form a roux.
  2. Deglaze Pot:
    • Pour in the white wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until the wine is mostly evaporated.
  3. Add Broth and Seasonings:
    • Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly to incorporate. Add the bay leaf, thyme, salt, pepper, and soy sauce (if using). Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Prepare the Topping

  1. Toast Bread:
    • While the soup is simmering, preheat your broiler. Place the baguette or French bread slices on a baking sheet and toast them under the broiler until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 4: Assemble and Broil

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat your oven’s broiler if it’s not already on.
  2. Prepare Soup Bowls:
    • Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Place the toasted bread slices on top of each bowl, overlapping if necessary.
  3. Add Cheese:
    • Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Gruyère cheese over the bread slices.
  4. Broil:
    • Place the bowls on a baking sheet and put them under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Cool Slightly:
    • Let the bowls of French onion soup cool for a minute or two before serving to avoid burns.
  2. Enjoy:
    • Serve hot and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness!

Tips for Perfect French Onion Soup

  • Caramelization: Don’t rush the caramelization of the onions. Slow cooking brings out the natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
  • Broth: For a richer flavor, use a good-quality beef broth. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth.
  • Bread: Use a sturdy, crusty bread that can hold up to the soup and cheese topping without becoming soggy too quickly.

Conclusion

Classic French onion soup with Gruyère cheese is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. This recipe captures the essence of traditional French cuisine with a rich, flavorful broth and a gooey, cheesy topping. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as an impressive starter, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

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