Savor the Aromas: Slow Cooker French Onion Soup
Step into the realm of comfort and warmth with our Slow Cooker French Onion Soup recipe. This classic dish boasts rich, caramelized onions submerged in a savory beef broth, topped with melted Gruyere cheese and crispy bread. Perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings with loved ones, this soup is a timeless favorite that will fill your home with tantalizing aromas and satisfy your soul. Join us as we explore the ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this beloved recipe.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds of sliced yellow onions
- 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- ¼ cup of balsamic vinegar
- 2 fresh thyme sprigs
- 8 cups beef stock
- 1.5 cups of shredded Gruyere cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ⅓ cup of brandy
- To serve: A few pieces of crispy bread
Pro Tip: For a low-carb version, skip the bread or use a low-carb bread substitute.
Instructions:
- Caramelize the Onions:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly until caramelized, stirring occasionally. This process may take 30-40 minutes.
- Deglaze with Balsamic Vinegar:
- Once the onions are caramelized, add the balsamic vinegar to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the vinegar reduce for a few minutes until syrupy.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker:
- Transfer the caramelized onions to the slow cooker. Add the fresh thyme sprigs and beef stock. Stir to combine.
- Slow Cook to Perfection:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Prep the Gruyere Cheese:
- Shortly before serving, preheat your broiler. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls and sprinkle each with a generous amount of shredded Gruyere cheese.
- Broil Until Bubbly:
- Place the bowls under the broiler for a few minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and slightly golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the bowls from the oven, being cautious as they will be hot. Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme if desired, and serve with a few pieces of crispy bread for dipping.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Brandy Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, add brandy to the soup before cooking.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef stock with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Add Some Umami: Enhance the savory flavor by adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the soup.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Omit the crispy bread or use a keto-friendly bread substitute.
- Use a low-carb thickening agent such as xanthan gum instead of flour for thickening the soup.
Low-Carb Version:
- Substitute the bread with crispy low-carb crackers or toasted almond flour bread.
In conclusion, our Slow Cooker French Onion Soup is a culinary masterpiece that embodies comfort and flavor in every spoonful. Whether enjoyed as a cozy meal for one or served as an elegant appetizer at a dinner party, this soup is sure to delight. With its simple preparation and indulgent taste, it’s a recipe that will have you coming back for seconds. So, embrace the warmth of homemade goodness and treat yourself to a bowl of this soul-warming soup today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze French onion soup? A: While you can freeze French onion soup, the texture of the onions may change slightly upon reheating. It’s best to freeze the soup without the cheese topping and add it when reheating.
Q: What can I use instead of Gruyere cheese? A: If Gruyere cheese is not available, you can substitute it with Swiss cheese or another melty cheese of your choice.
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian? A: Yes, simply swap the beef stock for vegetable broth to make a delicious vegetarian version of French onion soup.
