Indulge in Comfort: Crafting Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup
Prepare to savor the comforting flavors of Outback Steakhouse’s famous Walkabout Onion Soup right in the comfort of your own home. This hearty and flavorful soup is a beloved favorite among restaurant-goers, boasting tender onions, savory broth, and a creamy white sauce that will warm your soul with every spoonful. Join us as we delve into the art of recreating this iconic dish and elevate your culinary skills to new heights.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups sweet yellow onions, sliced thin
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 14.5 ounces chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
- 2 chicken bouillon cubes
- 1/4 cup Velveeta cheese
White Sauce for Soup:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
Instructions:
- Prepare Onions: In a large saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they are soft and golden brown, about 10-15 minutes.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Once the onions are caramelized, pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper. Add the chicken bouillon cubes for extra flavor. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Make White Sauce: While the soup is simmering, prepare the white sauce. In a separate saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and salt, cooking for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the sauce until it thickens to your desired consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Soup and Sauce: Once the white sauce is ready, slowly pour it into the soup mixture, stirring to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add Cheese: Cut the Velveeta cheese into small cubes and add them to the soup, stirring until the cheese is melted and incorporated.
- Serve: Ladle the Walkabout Onion Soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with additional sliced onions or croutons if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- French Onion Variation: For a classic French onion soup twist, top each serving of soup with a slice of toasted baguette and a generous sprinkling of shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese. Place the bowls under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth and omit the chicken bouillon cubes for a vegetarian-friendly version of the soup.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the soup for a hint of heat and extra flavor.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Replace the flour in the white sauce with a low-carb thickening agent such as almond flour or xanthan gum.
- Use heavy cream instead of whole milk to reduce the carb content of the soup.
- Omit the Velveeta cheese and opt for a keto-friendly cheese such as cheddar or Monterey Jack.
Low Carb Version:
- Use a low-carb vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to reduce the carb count.
- Replace the flour in the white sauce with a low-carb alternative such as coconut flour or arrowroot powder.
- Choose a low-carb cheese substitute such as shredded mozzarella or Parmesan for the Velveeta cheese.
In conclusion, Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup is a delightful blend of caramelized onions, savory broth, and creamy white sauce that is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you’re craving a taste of restaurant-quality comfort food. Whether enjoyed as a starter or as a main course with a side salad or sandwich, this iconic soup is a must-try for any soup lover. So, whip up a batch in your own kitchen and experience the cozy goodness of Outback Steakhouse right at home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time and reheat it? A: Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this soup for later? A: While you can freeze the soup, the texture may change slightly upon thawing due to the dairy-based ingredients. It’s best to enjoy the soup fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this soup? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables such as carrots, celery, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I make this soup gluten-free? A: Yes, you can easily make this soup gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch in place of the all-purpose flour in the white sauce. Additionally, be sure to use gluten-free chicken broth and check the labels of all other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
