French Onion Soup is a classic comfort dish that is perfect for a cold winter day or when you’re in need of some warm, hearty food. This soup is made with caramelized onions, vegetable broth, and a splash of white wine, and is topped with a slice of toasted French bread and melted Gruyere cheese. It’s a dish that is full of flavor and will leave you feeling satisfied and content.
Ingredients
- 4 large onions
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 sprig of fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of French bread
- 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
Instructions
- Start by peeling and slicing the onions into thin rounds.
- In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and sugar, stirring occasionally until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 30 minutes.
- Add the flour to the onions and stir for 2-3 minutes until the flour is cooked and the onions are coated.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, white wine, bay leaf, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut the French bread into slices and toast them in the oven until they are lightly browned and crispy.
- Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls and place the toasted bread slices on top. Sprinkle the grated Gruyere cheese over the bread slices.
- Place the bowls on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the soup cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Variations
Vegetarian/Vegan French Onion Soup
To make this recipe vegetarian or vegan, simply substitute the butter for vegan butter and the cheese for a vegan alternative. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian option.
Gluten-Free French Onion Soup
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour of your choice. You can also use gluten-free bread for the toasted slices.
French Onion Soup with Meat
If you want to add some protein to your French Onion Soup, you can add some cooked beef or chicken to the soup before serving. Simply slice the cooked meat into small pieces and add it to the soup along with the toasted bread and cheese.
French Onion Soup is a classic dish that is easy to make and perfect for a cold winter day. With this recipe, you can make a delicious and hearty soup in no time. Enjoy!
FAQ
What type of onions should I use for French Onion Soup?
Yellow onions are the best choice for French Onion Soup. They are flavorful and sweet when caramelized.
How do I properly caramelize the onions?
To properly caramelize the onions, slice them thinly and cook them slowly over medium-low heat for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a pinch of salt to help draw out the moisture and speed up the caramelization process.
Can I use beef broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, you can use beef broth instead of chicken broth. However, the flavor will be slightly different, so keep that in mind.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. However, the flavor will be different, and the soup may not be as rich.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Gruyere?
Yes, you can use a different type of cheese instead of Gruyere. However, Gruyere is the traditional cheese used in French Onion Soup and adds a nutty flavor that complements the soup well.
Can I make French Onion Soup in advance?
Yes, you can make French Onion Soup in advance. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Can I use a different type of bread for the croutons?
Yes, you can use a different type of bread for the croutons. However, sourdough bread is the best choice because it holds up well in the soup and adds a nice tangy flavor.
Can I use a different type of alcohol instead of sherry?
Yes, you can use a different type of alcohol instead of sherry. However, sherry is the traditional choice and adds a unique flavor to the soup.
Can I use pre-made croutons instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use pre-made croutons instead of making your own. However, homemade croutons are easy to make and add a nice texture to the soup.
Can I use a slow cooker to make French Onion Soup?
Yes, you can use a slow cooker to make French Onion Soup. However, the onions will not caramelize as well, so you may want to sauté them first before adding them to the slow cooker.
