Welcome to a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of France! Imagine a warm, comforting bowl of Herby French Onion Soup, where sweet, caramelized onions dance in a rich beef broth, topped with golden, bubbly Gruyère cheese. This classic dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that will make you feel like you're dining in a cozy Parisian bistro. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a delightful starter for gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Ready to elevate your soup game? Let’s dive into the secrets of making this irresistible dish!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Baguette slices for serving
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Thinly slice the 4 large onions and set them aside. Measure out 4 cups of beef broth and have it ready to use. Shred 1 cup of Gruyère cheese and set it aside for later. Prepare your baguette slices for serving.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt and combine with the oil, creating a flavorful base for the soup.
- Add the sliced onions to the pot. Stir them well to coat with the butter and oil. Cook the onions over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes until they are soft, caramelized, and golden brown. Be patient; this step is crucial for developing the soup's rich flavor.
- Once the onions are caramelized, add 1 teaspoon of thyme and 1 bay leaf to the pot. Stir to combine the herbs with the onions, allowing their flavors to meld for about 1 minute.
- Pour in the 4 cups of beef broth, stirring to incorporate it with the onion mixture. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the soup simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen.
- 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, or until they are golden and crisp.
- After the soup has simmered, remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup one last time and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- To serve, ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each bowl with a few slices of the toasted baguette and generously sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese over the top.
- Place the bowls under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once the cheese is melted and golden, carefully remove the bowls from the oven. Allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Herby French Onion Soup with extra baguette slices on the side!
Tips
- Caramelization is Key: Take your time when cooking the onions. The longer you let them caramelize, the richer the flavor of your soup will be. Aim for a deep golden brown color for that perfect sweetness.
- Quality Broth Matters: Use high-quality beef broth for the best flavor. If you have homemade broth, even better! It will enhance the overall taste of your soup.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with herbs! A splash of sherry or a sprinkle of fresh parsley can add a unique twist to your soup.
- Cheese Choice: While Gruyère is traditional, you can mix in other cheeses like Swiss or even a bit of Parmesan for added depth.
- Broil with Care: When broiling the cheese, keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. The goal is bubbly, golden perfection!
- Serving Suggestions: For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of truffle oil over the soup just before serving. It adds a luxurious flavor that will impress your guests!
- Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time. Just reheat it gently before serving and add the toasted baguette and cheese right before broiling. Enjoy your cooking adventure with this Herby French Onion Soup, and savor every spoonful of its deliciousness!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
