French Onion Soup
French Onion Soup, a classic and iconic dish in French cuisine, embodies the art of transforming humble ingredients into a rich and soul-warming masterpiece. This timeless soup is characterized by its velvety caramelized onions, deeply flavorful broth, and a decadent layer of melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cup vegetable broth
- 2 cup water
- 1/2 cup white red or wine (if desired)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Baguette or French bread, sliced
- Gruyère or Emmental cheese, grated
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter and heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes until they are caramelized and golden brown.
- Sprinkle the sugar over the onions to aid in the caramelization process.
- Pour in the wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for a few minutes until reduced.
- Add the vegetable broth and water to the pot. Add salt and black pepper according to your tastepreferences .Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 20-30 minutes toallow the flavors to meld.
- While the soup simmers, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Toast the slices of baguette or French bread in the oven until they are slightly crispy.
- Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a slice or two of toasted bread on top of each bowl of soup.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Gruyère or Emmental cheese over the bread slices.
- Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil in the oven until the cheeseis melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Carefully remove the bowls from the oven and let them cool for a minutebefore serving.
- Garnish each bowl with fresh thyme leaves.
Notes
- Caramelizing the onions requires patience, so be sure to cook them slowly over low heat for the best flavor.
- If using wine, choose a red or white wine that you enjoy drinking. It adds depth to the soup's flavor.
- For optimal outcomes, utilize a broth bursting with flavor . Vegetable broth both work well.
- Modify the quantity of cheese according to your liking . More cheese can be added for a richer flavor.
- When broiling the cheese, keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- French Onion Soup is traditionally served in oven-safe bowls. Be cautious when handling hot bowls and serve on heatproof surfaces.