French Onion Soup is a classic, rich, and comforting dish that is loved for its deep, savory flavor. The key to its deliciousness is the slow-caramelized onions, which bring out a sweet and rich flavor that is perfectly balanced by the savory beef broth. Topped with a slice of toasted baguette and melted cheese, typically Gruyère, French Onion Soup is a perfect dish for chilly evenings. Its satisfying combination of tender onions, flavorful broth, and cheesy goodness makes it a timeless favorite.

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp sugar (to help caramelize the onions)
  • 6 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
  • 1 cup dry white wine (or substitute with more broth)
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

  • 1 French baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick slices
  • 1 ½ cups Gruyère cheese, grated (or Swiss or Comté cheese)

Instructions:

  1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and stir to coat. Sprinkle with the sugar (this helps the onions caramelize). Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for 40-45 minutes, or until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown. Be patient, as the slow cooking process is key to developing their rich flavor. You may need to lower the heat if they start to burn.
  2. Add the Garlic and Wine: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Then, pour in the white wine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  3. Add the Broth and Simmer: Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 20-30 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, as needed.
  4. Prepare the Toast: While the soup is simmering, preheat your broiler. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden and crispy on both sides.
  5. Assemble the Soup: Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls (like French onion soup crocks). Place a slice of toasted baguette on top of each bowl of soup. Then, generously sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese over the bread.
  6. Melt the Cheese: Place the bowls under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Watch closely to avoid burning the cheese.
  7. Serve: Carefully remove the bowls from the oven (they will be very hot!). Serve immediately, garnished with a few extra thyme leaves if desired.

Nutrition (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

  • Calories: ~300-350 kcal (without cheese)
  • Protein: ~12-15 g
  • Fat: ~20-22 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~25-30 g
  • Fiber: ~4-5 g
  • Sugars: ~10-12 g
  • Sodium: ~900-1,100 mg (depending on the broth and cheese used)
  • Vitamin A: ~8-10% of the Daily Value
  • Calcium: ~15-20% of the Daily Value (from cheese)

Notes:

  • Onion Options: Yellow onions are the traditional choice, but you can experiment with red onions or sweet onions for a different flavor profile.
  • Wine Substitution: If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with an extra cup of beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.
  • Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian version, simply swap the beef broth for vegetable broth and use a vegetarian-friendly cheese.
  • Cheese Alternatives: Gruyère is the classic choice for French Onion Soup, but you can also use Swiss, Emmental, or even mozzarella if you prefer.
  • Slow Cooker Option: After caramelizing the onions, transfer everything to a slow cooker, add the broth, and cook on low for 4-6 hours to develop even more flavor.

This French Onion Soup is a comforting classic with layers of flavor, perfect for cozy evenings or as a starter for a fancy dinner. With its deep, savory broth and melty cheese topping, it’s a dish that always impresses!