How to Make French French Onion Soup with a Vegetarian Twist
If you're a fan of French onion soup but looking for a vegetarian option, you're in luck! This delicious recipe provides a perfect twist on the classic dish, maintaining that rich flavor while being meat-free. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting bowl of French onion soup that everyone will love.
Ingredients for Vegetarian French Onion Soup
To make this hearty soup, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 baguette, sliced
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or a vegetarian cheese alternative)
Instructions to Make Vegetarian French Onion Soup
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sprinkle them with salt. Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become deeply caramelized, about 25-30 minutes. To speed up the process, add the sugar after 10 minutes to promote browning.
Step 2: Add the Garlic and Flour
Once the onions are beautifully caramelized, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and mix well, allowing it to cook for another 2 minutes. This step will help thicken the soup.
Step 3: Incorporate the Liquids
Gradually add the vegetable broth and white wine (if using), stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the bay leaf and dried thyme, and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Season and Prepare the Bread
After simmering, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. In the meantime, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sliced baguette on a baking sheet and toast in the oven until golden brown, about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Cheese Topping
Once the bread is toasted, it's time to assemble your soup. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls, place a slice of toasted baguette on top of each bowl, and generously sprinkle with grated Gruyère cheese.
Step 6: Broil the Soup
Place the bowls under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning!
Serving Suggestions
Your Vegetarian French Onion Soup is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it hot, garnished with some fresh thyme if desired. Pair it with a simple green salad or enjoy it as a standout dish at your next dinner party.
Final Thoughts
This easy recipe for vegetarian French onion soup offers all the depth and flavor of the traditional version while being completely plant-based. With its rich broth, sweet caramelized onions, and melty cheese topping, this soup is sure to warm your heart and please your taste buds.
Give this vegetarian twist a try, and you might just find it becomes a new favorite in your recipe rotation!