Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of French Onion Soup—a classic dish that warms the soul with every spoonful. Made with caramelized onions, savory beef broth, and crusty bread topped with melted cheese, this soup is a timeless favorite that’s perfect for cozy evenings at home.
To begin, thinly slice a generous amount of yellow onions—traditionally, sweet onions like Vidalia or Spanish onions are used for their mellow flavor. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat and add the sliced onions. Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become soft, golden brown, and caramelized, releasing their natural sweetness and developing deep flavor.
Once the onions are caramelized to perfection, add a splash of dry sherry or white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to incorporate into the soup. This step adds a subtle depth of flavor and complexity to the dish.
Next, pour in rich beef broth, bringing the soup to a gentle simmer. Allow the flavors to meld together over low heat for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the onions to become tender and the broth to develop a rich and savory taste.
While the soup simmers, prepare the cheesy bread topping. Slice a baguette into thick slices and toast them until golden brown and crispy. Then, sprinkle each slice with grated Gruyere cheese or Swiss cheese, and place them under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
To serve, ladle the piping hot French Onion Soup into individual oven-safe bowls and float a cheesy bread slice on top of each bowl. Place the bowls under the broiler for a few moments to melt the cheese and achieve a golden crust.
Garnish the French Onion Soup with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thyme for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately, savoring the rich aroma and comforting taste of this classic soup.
With its layers of flavor and comforting warmth, French Onion Soup is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire of cozy recipes. Whether enjoyed as a starter to a dinner party or as a comforting meal on a chilly evening, this timeless dish is guaranteed to warm both body and soul with every delicious spoonful.