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Classic French Onion Soup

Classic French Onion Soup
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Classic French Onion Soup combines deeply caramelized yellow onions with rich beef broth, topped with toasted baguette slices and melted Gruyère cheese. This timeless, comforting dish balances savory, sweet, and creamy flavors, perfect for warming up on chilly days. Elegant yet simple, it suits both casual meals and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Liquids and Broth

  • 1/2 cup dry white wine or sherry
  • 6 cups beef broth (or vegetable stock for vegetarian/vegan option)

Bread and Cheese

  • 1 baguette, sliced
  • 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese (or Emmental, Comté, or plant-based cheese for variations)

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Thinly slice the yellow onions and cook slowly in butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Stir frequently for 40 to 50 minutes until the onions turn deep golden brown and emit a sweet, aromatic smell.
  2. Deglaze the Pan: Add dry white wine or sherry to the caramelized onions. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan bottom and allow the liquid to reduce for a few minutes to develop depth of flavor.
  3. Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in the beef broth along with fresh thyme sprigs and a bay leaf. Simmer gently for 20 to 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Prepare the Bread: While the soup simmers, slice the baguette and toast the slices until golden and crisp to ensure they absorb broth without becoming soggy quickly.
  5. Assemble and Broil: Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls, top each with toasted bread slices, and generously cover with grated Gruyère cheese. Broil until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, creating a delicious melted crust.

Notes

  • Patience is essential when caramelizing onions to unlock their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
  • Use homemade or high-quality store-bought beef broth for the richest taste.
  • Broil cheese just until bubbly to avoid burning and achieve a perfect golden crust.
  • Season gradually with salt as broth and cheese add natural saltiness.
  • Serve immediately for best enjoyment while the cheese is still melty and the soup is warm.

Nutrition

Keywords: French onion soup, caramelized onions, Gruyère cheese, comfort food, classic soup, beef broth

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