French Pearl Onion Soup is an elegant variation of the beloved French onion soup, using sweet, tender pearl onions instead of traditional larger onions. With a rich broth, caramelized pearl onions, and a bubbly, cheesy topping, this soup is perfect for special occasions or anytime you want to elevate your soup game. It’s warm, comforting, and full of deep, savory flavors that are sure to impress.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Notes
• Variations
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 pounds pearl onions (peeled)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 6 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 baguette (sliced)
• 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pearl Onions

1. To easily peel pearl onions, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath. Trim the ends and remove the skins.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

1. In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the peeled pearl onions and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown.
3. Add the minced garlic, sugar, salt, and black pepper, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Broth

1. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir until the flour is fully incorporated, cooking for about 1-2 minutes.
2. Slowly pour in the white wine, stirring constantly, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol.
3. Add the broth, thyme sprigs, bay leaf, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

1. Preheat your oven’s broiler.
2. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls and place a toasted baguette slice on top of each bowl.
2. Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Gruyère cheese over each slice of bread.
3. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
4. Carefully remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve hot.

Cooking Notes

• Onion Peeling Tip: Blanching pearl onions makes peeling much easier and quicker, saving you time and effort.
• Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of additional broth, but the wine adds a lovely depth of flavor to the soup.
• Cheese: Gruyère is the traditional cheese used for French onion soup, but you can use Swiss or even a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for a similar melty, bubbly topping.

Variations

Vegetarian French Pearl Onion Soup

• Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version of this soup that still has a rich and satisfying flavor.

Mushroom Pearl Onion Soup

• Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms when caramelizing the onions for an extra layer of earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the pearl onions.

Spicy French Pearl Onion Soup

• Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes when adding the garlic for a subtle heat that contrasts with the sweet, caramelized onions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?

Yes! The soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove and proceed with the broiling step to add the cheesy topping.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover soup (without the bread and cheese topping) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop before adding fresh bread and cheese.

Can I Freeze French Pearl Onion Soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup (without the bread and cheese) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

French Pearl Onion Soup is a refined and comforting dish that brings a sophisticated twist to the classic French onion soup. With its rich, flavorful broth, tender caramelized pearl onions, and the perfect cheesy, bubbly topping, this soup is both elegant and comforting. Whether you serve it as a starter for a special dinner or as the main course on a chilly evening, it’s sure to impress.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every savory spoonful of this beautiful soup!