How to Make Classic French Onion Soup with a Rich Broth
Classic French Onion Soup is a timeless dish that features a deeply flavorful broth, caramelized onions, and a gooey layer of melted cheese on top. This comforting recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends. By following these simple steps, you can create a rich and delicious French onion soup that will impress everyone.
Ingredients
To make the perfect Classic French Onion Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 6 cups beef broth (homemade or low-sodium)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Baguette slices (for serving)
- 1 ½ cups grated Gruyère cheese (you can use a mix of Gruyère and mozzarella)
Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Start by melting the butter and olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the sliced onions and sugar. The sugar will help with caramelization.
Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until they are golden brown and caramelized. Be patient, as caramelizing the onions takes time, but the flavor will be worth it!
Step 2: Add Garlic and Flour
Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and stir well, cooking for another minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in the dry white wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze, loosening any browned bits. Allow the wine to reduce for about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Broth and Seasonings
Next, pour in the beef broth and add the thyme. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper as necessary.
Step 5: Prepare the Baguette Toppings
While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Once the soup is ready, ladle it into oven-safe bowls. Place a toasted baguette slice on top of each bowl and generously sprinkle with grated Gruyère cheese.
Transfer the bowls to the oven and broil for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Enjoy Your Classic French Onion Soup
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh thyme if desired. This Classic French Onion Soup with a rich broth is sure to delight your taste buds. Enjoy it as a standalone meal or paired with a simple green salad and a glass of wine for a complete dining experience.
Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a chic gathering, this classic recipe is a must-try. The rich flavors and comforting textures make it a satisfying dish that everyone will love.