French Onion Soup is a timeless classic that combines deeply caramelized onions, rich broth, and a cheesy, toasted baguette topping. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly days and is sure to impress with its depth of flavor. Follow this step-by-step guide to make a delicious pot of homemade French Onion Soup.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 5 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar (helps with caramelization)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups beef broth (you can use chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 baguette, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese (or a mix of Gruyère and Swiss)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the thinly sliced onions to the pot and stir to coat them in the butter.
- Sprinkle the sugar over the onions. This will help them caramelize and develop a rich, golden color.
- Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes, or until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown. Be patient, as this step is crucial for developing the soup’s flavor.
- Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Deglaze the Pot
- Pour in the dry white wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the wine has reduced slightly.
- If not using wine, you can deglaze the pot with a little broth instead.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Simmer
- Add the beef broth to the pot, followed by the bay leaf and dried thyme.
- Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for 30-40 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Remove the bay leaf from the soup before serving.
Step 4: Prepare the Baguette Topping
- While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden and crisp. Set aside.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
- Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls, leaving some space at the top.
- Place 1-2 toasted baguette slices on top of the soup in each bowl.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Gruyère cheese (or the cheese mix) over the baguette slices.
- Place the bowls on a baking sheet and transfer them to the oven.
- Broil the soup on high for 2-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
- Carefully remove the bowls from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve the French Onion Soup hot and enjoy the rich flavors and cheesy goodness.
Cook’s Notes
- Onions: Yellow onions are traditional, but you can use a mix of yellow and sweet onions for a slightly sweeter flavor.
- Broth: Beef broth is classic, but chicken or vegetable broth can be used for a lighter version. For a deeper flavor, use a combination of beef and chicken broth.
- Wine: The dry white wine adds depth to the soup, but it’s optional. You can skip it or substitute with additional broth if you prefer.
Variations
Mushroom French Onion Soup
Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the onions as they caramelize for an earthy, umami twist.
Vegan French Onion Soup
Use vegetable broth and replace the butter with olive oil or vegan butter. Top with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Cheesy Garlic French Onion Soup
Rub the toasted baguette slices with a cut clove of garlic before adding the cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Spicy French Onion Soup
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the onions while they caramelize for a subtle heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make French Onion Soup ahead of time?
Yes, French Onion Soup can be made ahead of time. Prepare the soup up to the point of adding the bread and cheese. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the soup, assemble with the bread and cheese, and broil as directed.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup (without the bread and cheese) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add fresh bread and cheese before serving.
3. Can I freeze French Onion Soup?
Yes, you can freeze French Onion Soup. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What can I serve with French Onion Soup?
French Onion Soup is often served as a starter, but it can also be a meal on its own. Pair it with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a sandwich.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, Gruyère is traditional, but you can also use Swiss, Emmental, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Classic Homemade French Onion Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, caramelized onions, savory broth, and cheesy topping, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Follow this guide to make a delicious pot of French Onion Soup that’s sure to impress. Serve it with a side of crusty bread and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this timeless dish.
