French Onion Soup
Cozy Up with Classic French Onion Soup
Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of French Onion Soup on a chilly evening? This isn’t just a soup; it’s an experience. The deeply caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and bubbly Gruyere cheese create a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to a Parisian bistro. We’ve perfected this classic recipe to be surprisingly achievable at home, delivering restaurant-quality results with a little patience and love.
The Secret to Amazing Caramelized Onions:
The key to truly exceptional French Onion Soup lies in the caramelization of the onions. Don’t rush this process! Low and slow is the way to go. We recommend using a heavy-bottomed pot and stirring frequently to prevent sticking. The onions should transform from translucent to a deep golden brown, developing a natural sweetness that forms the base of the soup’s incredible flavor.
Building Layers of Flavor:
Once the onions are beautifully caramelized, we deglaze the pot with dry sherry, adding a touch of complexity and acidity. The beef broth then simmers with the onions, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen. Finally, the crowning glory: toasted French bread topped with generous amounts of grated Gruyere cheese, broiled to golden, bubbly perfection.
Serving Suggestions:
French Onion Soup makes a wonderful starter for a special occasion or a satisfying meal on its own. Pair it with a simple green salad and a crusty baguette for a complete and comforting experience.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different type of onion? While yellow onions are traditional, you can use a combination of yellow and sweet onions for a slightly sweeter flavor.
- What if I don’t have dry sherry? You can substitute with dry white wine or a tablespoon of red wine vinegar.
- Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes! The soup base can be made a day or two in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and assemble with the bread and cheese just before serving.
- What’s the best cheese to use? Gruyere is the classic choice, but you can also use a combination of Gruyere, Emmental, and Parmesan.
- Can I use pre-sliced onions? While convenient, pre-sliced onions may not caramelize as evenly. We recommend slicing them yourself for the best results.
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this authentic and delicious French Onion Soup!
French Onion Soup
Ingredients
- 3 lbs yellow onions thinly sliced
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup dry sherry
- 4 slices French bread
- 4 oz Gruyere cheese grated
Instructions
- Melt butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown (about 30-40 minutes). Add sugar, salt, and pepper during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Pour in beef broth and sherry. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes.
- Preheat broiler. Place French bread slices on top of oven-safe bowls. Ladle soup over bread. Top with Gruyere cheese.
- Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
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