Description
A classic French soup made with deeply caramelized onions simmered in a rich broth and topped with toasted croutons and melted cheese. This comforting and savory soup is perfect for a cozy meal especially during colder months, featuring a delightful combination of sweet onions, hearty broth, and a golden cheesy topping.
Ingredients
Soup
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 1 baguette, sliced
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- Fresh thyme (optional)
Instructions
- Heat butter and oil: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and add olive oil to create a flavorful base for caramelizing onions.
- Caramelize onions: Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become deeply golden brown and sweetly caramelized.
- Add sugar: Sprinkle the sugar over the onions and stir well, which helps to enhance the caramelization process and deepen their flavor.
- Cook garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant without burning.
- Deglaze with wine: Pour in the dry white wine and simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly and lift any browned bits from the pot, adding complexity to the flavor.
- Add broth and season: Pour in the beef broth, then stir in salt and black pepper. Let the soup simmer gently for 15 minutes to marry the flavors.
- Toast baguette slices: While the soup simmers, toast the sliced baguette until crisp to make croutons that add texture and soak up the broth beautifully.
- Assemble and broil: Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls, place toasted baguette slices on top, and generously sprinkle grated Gruyère cheese over the croutons.
- Broil until bubbly: Place the bowls under a broiler for 2 to 3 minutes or until the cheese melts, bubbles, and starts to turn golden, creating a delightful crust.
Notes
- Gruyère cheese is traditional for its excellent melting quality and flavor; Swiss cheese can be used as a substitute.
- Cook the onions slowly over medium heat to achieve the richest flavor through proper caramelization.
- Using vegetable broth instead of beef broth makes the soup vegetarian-friendly.
- Fresh thyme can be added for an aromatic herbal note if desired.
- Use oven-safe bowls for broiling to avoid cracking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop and Broiling
- Cuisine: French
