Description
This classic French Onion Soup delivers deep, rich caramelized onion flavors simmered in a savory beef broth, finished with toasted baguette slices and melted Gruyère cheese for the perfect comforting meal on cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
Topping
- 1 medium baguette, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
Instructions
- Caramelize Onions: In a large heavy-bottomed pot, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add thinly sliced yellow onions, stirring occasionally for about 20-30 minutes until the onions turn a deep golden brown and develop a rich, sweet flavor.
- Deglaze Pot: Pour in ½ cup of dry white wine and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to lift any flavorful browned bits, integrating them into the base of the soup.
- Simmer Soup: Stir in 6 cups of low-sodium beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.
- Toast Baguette: While the soup simmers, slice the baguette into thick rounds and toast them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Assemble and Broil: Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Place the toasted baguette slices on top, then sprinkle generously with shredded Gruyère cheese. Place the bowls under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even caramelization of onions without burning.
- Keep stirring occasionally during caramelization to prevent onions from sticking or burning.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute beef broth with vegetable broth and omit Gruyère or use a vegetarian cheese alternative.
- The broiler step needs close attention as cheese can burn quickly; watch carefully.
- Dry white wine is essential for acidity; if avoiding alcohol, use a splash of white grape juice and a teaspoon of vinegar as a substitute.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
Keywords: French Onion Soup, caramelized onions, broiled cheese, comforting soup, French cuisine
