French Onion Soup
Bonjour, soup aficionados! Prepare to be transported to the cozy cafes of Paris with our delectable French Onion Soup recipe. With its rich, savory broth, sweet caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese, this soup is a true comfort classic that's perfect for chilly days or any time you need a comforting bowl of goodness. Let's dive into the recipe and bring a taste of France to your kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 4 large onions
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper
- French baguette slices
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Caramelize the onions: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 45-60 minutes. Be patient, as this step is crucial for developing the rich flavor of the soup.
Add garlic and flour: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and stir to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
Deglaze the pot: Pour in the dry white wine (if using), scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
Add beef broth and thyme: Pour in the beef broth and add the dried thyme. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the cheesy topping: Preheat your oven's broiler. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls or crocks. Top each bowl with a slice of French baguette and sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Gruyère cheese over the bread.
Broil until bubbly: Place the bowls on a baking sheet and transfer them to the oven under the broiler. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Serve and enjoy: Carefully remove the bowls from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting goodness of French Onion Soup!
Voilà! You've just whipped up a batch of delicious French Onion Soup that's sure to impress even the most discerning palates. With its rich, savory broth, sweet caramelized onions, and decadent melted cheese topping, this soup is a true delight for the senses. So grab a spoon, cozy up, and savor every spoonful of this classic French comfort food!