French Onion Soup Recipe, A Classic Comfort Dish That Is Perfect When You Are Craving Something Satisfying

French onion soup is a classic French dish. It is made by boiling sliced onions in water. More complex versions use bouillon, wine, and spices. This soup is often served with grated Gruyère cheese and croutons or stale French bread. It can also be enjoyed plain in a mug.

Onion soups have been popular in France since Roman times. They were considered food for people of humble means due to the abundance of onions. The modern version of this soup emerged in France around the 17th century. It features dry bread, beef bouillon, and caramelised onions.

Legend has it that the soup was invented by Louis XV of France. He returned late one night to his hunting lodge and found only onions, butter, cheese, and Champagne. He mixed them together to create the first French onion soup. Other stories attribute it to Louis XIV.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 4 to 6 servings

Ingredients

• 6 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 8 cups beef broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 2 cups Gruyère cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

How To Prepare

1. Melt the butter in a large saucepan. Stir in the onions and cook until they are light gold and transparent.
2. Add the flour to the onions. Stir gently for 3-4 minutes until absorbed into the butter.
3. Pour two-thirds of the beef broth over the onions and mix well. Add the bouquet garni and bring to a boil, stirring regularly.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and a little nutmeg to taste. Add the rest of the broth and let the soup simmer gently for 10-15 minutes.
5. If your bread is fresh, toast it now over low heat.
6. Remove the soup from heat and remove the bouquet garni. Add three tablespoons of port and stir well.
7. Divide the soup into six oven-safe bowls. Press a slice of bread into each bowl of soup. Sprinkle grated Gruyère cheese on top.
8. Broil on low for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and browned.
9. Serve piping hot.

Nutritional Values

Whether you're making it for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, French Onion Soup is sure to impress. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a restaurant-quality bowl of soup in your own kitchen, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this timeless classic.