French Onion Soup
Equipment
- Normal Kitchen Utensils
Ingredients
- 4 Extra Large White or Yellow Onions Sliced Thin
- 6 C Beef Broth
- 6 Oz. Grated Swiss or Gruyère Cheese About 1/5 C
- 1/4 C Dry White Wine (Optional) but Recommended
- 8-12 Slices Baguette or French Bread 1 Inch Thickness
- 1/4 C All Purpose Flour
- 4 Tbsp Butter
- 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 2-3 Cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 tsp Salt Plus More to Taste
- 1 tsp Fresh Thyme Or 1/2 tsp Dry Thyme
- 1/2 tsp White Sugar
- 1 Bay Leaf
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, melt the butter and mix in the olive oil.
- Add the onions, sugar and 1 tsp of salt. Cook the onions for 45 minutes to one hour, stirring occasionally. until the onions are a deep caramel color. They should reduce down to about a fourth in volume. Watch them more closely as the end of the cook time nears, as they are more likely to burn. Don't let them char.
- Add the minced garlic and cook another minute, stirring occasionally.
- If using thing (optional) wine, deglaze the pot with it now. Let it reduce for two minutes.
- Add the flour to the pot and stir constantly for three minutes. The onions will begin to thicken into a paste.
- Add the beef broth one cup at a time, stirring constantly. Once one cup is mixed in, add another. If, after adding the broth, the soup is still pretty thick (like a gravy) add an extra C of water. You want it to be soup-like at this point. If it is still too thick, add up to one more C of water.
- Add the thyme and bay leaf and cover the soup. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the soup simmers, heat your over to 350 degrees F. Toast the sliced French bread for 5-7 minutes, or until toasted to a golden brown.
- Once the soup has simmered, and the bread is toasted, remove the bay leaf and taste the soup for salt. Then prepare the bowls.
- Turn on your broiler. Divide the soup equally into four oven safe bowls (roughly 2.5 C per bowl)
- Divide the toasted bread into four and add equal amounts on top of the soup in each bowl. It should float.
- Top each bowl with a quarter of the grated cheese and place the bowls in the broiler (pro tip: place the bowls onto a baking sheet first). Broil for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with just a little char on top.
- Serve immediately, being sure to warn your guests of the hot bowls.
A Timeless French Classic
You’ve just explored the recipe for French Onion Soup. This beloved dish brings warmth and comfort in every spoonful. Originating in France, it dates back to the 17th century. It became popular among the working class due to its simple and affordable ingredients.
The Origins and History
French Onion Soup traces its roots to the bustling streets of Paris. Street vendors sold it as a quick and hearty meal. The soup’s foundation lies in caramelized onions, beef broth, and toasted bread topped with melted cheese. Over time, it evolved into the refined dish we know today.
Julia Child’s Influence
Julia Child played a pivotal role in popularizing French Onion Soup in America. Her cookbook, “Mastering the Art of French Cooking,” introduced many to this delightful dish. Child’s approachable style and love for French cuisine inspired countless home cooks. Her version of French Onion Soup remains a favorite.
Fun Facts
- Caramelization: Caramelizing onions slowly over low heat brings out their natural sweetness, giving the soup its rich flavor.
- Gratinee: The term “gratinée” refers to the toasted bread and melted cheese topping. It adds texture and depth to the soup.
- Versatility: While traditionally made with beef broth, you can use chicken or vegetable broth for a different twist.
Enjoying Your French Onion Soup
Savoring a bowl of French Onion Soup offers a true taste of French culinary tradition. The combination of sweet onions, savory broth, and gooey cheese creates a symphony of flavors. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a sophisticated dinner party.
If you want to try another French dish that pairs beautifully with the soup, consider the Jambon Beurre sandwich. This simple yet delicious sandwich features a crispy baguette, creamy butter, and tender Parisian ham. Together, these dishes create a delightful French meal that’s sure to impress.
In summary, this is more than a simple soup—it’s a culinary experience. Its rich history, combined with the influence of iconic figures like Julia Child, makes it a beloved classic. Enjoy making and savoring this timeless soup, and don’t forget to try the Jambon Beurre sandwich for an authentic taste of France.
Some content generated with the help of ChatGPT | OpenAI: https://www.openai.com/