How to Make a Traditional French French Onion Soup with Vegetables
French onion soup is a classic dish known for its rich flavor and comforting warmth. While the traditional version primarily features caramelized onions and broth, adding vegetables can enhance the dish, making it more nutritious and vibrant. In this article, we’ll explore how to make a traditional French onion soup with vegetables that retains all the classic elements while introducing a delightful twist.
Ingredients
To make a delicious traditional French onion soup with vegetables, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Baguette slices, for serving
- 1 cup grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and caramelized. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes. The key is to cook them slowly to develop their sweetness and depth of flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic, diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté the mixture for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the vegetable broth and, if using, the white wine. Stir in the thyme and bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Season to Taste
After simmering, taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as desired. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Step 5: Prepare the Bread and Cheese
While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden and crisp. Once toasted, remove them from the oven and sprinkle the grated cheese on top.
Step 6: Broil the Cheese
Return the baguette slices to the oven and switch to the broil setting. Broil for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 7: Serve
To serve, ladle the hot soup into bowls, place a cheesy baguette slice on top of each serving, and enjoy. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a little more thyme or fresh parsley on top.
Tips for the Best French Onion Soup
- Use a mix of yellow and red onions for added sweetness and color.
- Feel free to experiment with vegetables like mushrooms or leeks for different flavors.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread and ensure your vegetable broth is gluten-free.
This traditional French onion soup with added vegetables is not only hearty and delicious but also offers a wholesome twist on a classic recipe. Perfect for cold days or when you want to impress your guests, this soup brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. Enjoy!