French Onion Soup

French Onion Soup has that warm, cozy vibe that makes it a classic favorite for both family dinners and fancy gatherings. Imagine a bowl of rich, savory broth, filled with sweet, caramelized onions and topped with perfectly melted cheese. It sounds fancy, right? But don’t worry! You can whip up this Easy French Onion Soup without any chef experience. Trust me, the steps are pretty straightforward, and the reward is undeniably delicious. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?” So, let’s roll up our sleeves, slice some onions, and dive into this easy yet mouthwatering adventure.

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Why This Recipe Works

French Onion Soup is a culinary classic that embodies the harmony of simple ingredients, elevated through careful preparation. The magic lies in the slow caramelization of onions, which transforms their inherent sweetness into a rich, savory depth that forms the backbone of the soup. Combining this with a robust beef broth and creamy cheeses culminates in a dish that is both comforting and impressive.

Why You’ll Love This Easy French Onion Soup

This Easy French Onion Soup recipe makes it possible for anyone, regardless of cooking expertise, to recreate this delightful dish at home. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy restaurant-quality soup in the comfort of your own kitchen. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or as an elegant starter for gatherings with friends and family.

Ingredients

• 4 large yellow onions (about 3 pounds), thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt (use less if using table salt)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sherry or white wine
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
• 8 cups high-quality beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon Beef Base
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and roughly chopped
• 1 yellow onion, roughly chopped
• 2 stalks celery, roughly chopped
• 6 large cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 3 small sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• 3 bay leaves
• 15 whole black peppercorns (about 1/2 teaspoon)
• 1 (1-pound) loaf of French bread, sliced
• 1 cup gruyere cheese, freshly grated
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 8 ounces Swiss cheese, sliced
• Fresh chives, for garnish
• Cracked black pepper, for garnish

The Onion Preparations

Slicing the Onions

Start by thinly slicing the onions to yield about 8 cups of sliced onions. This makes them easier to enjoy in the soup.

Caramelizing the Onions

In a 12-inch, high-sided stainless steel pan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of kosher salt. If you’re using table salt, aim for about half that amount. Optionally, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions are transparent, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the onions to caramelize for about 90 minutes, stirring every 10-20 minutes for even cooking.

Crafting the Beef Broth

Combining Ingredients for Broth

In a large Dutch oven or stock pot over high heat, combine 8 cups of beef broth and 2 cups of water. Add 1 tablespoon of Better Than Bouillon Beef Base, along with 3 peeled carrots, 1 onion, 2 stalks of celery, and 6 smashed garlic cloves. Stir in 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish, 3 sprigs of fresh thyme, 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary, 3 bay leaves, and 15 peppercorns.

Simmering the Broth

Bring the broth mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to achieve a low simmer. Cover with a vented lid, allowing steam to escape. Let it simmer while the onions caramelize.

Completing the Soup

Draining and Incorporating Broth

Once the onions are caramelized, drain the broth through a colander into a bowl. Return the broth to the pot, discarding the vegetables.

Finalizing the Flavor

In the pan with the onions, sprinkle with 2 tablespoons flour and stir for 1-2 minutes. Pour in 1/2 cup of sherry, turn the heat to medium, and scrape any browned bits from the pan. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and continue stirring until most of the liquid is absorbed. Then, combine the onions with the broth and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Preparing the Bread and Cheese

Toasting the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the French bread into 1-inch pieces and lay them on a baking sheet. Optionally butter each slice for extra flavor. Toast for 10 minutes, flip, and toast for another 5 minutes until crisp.

Assembling the Soup Bowls

In oven-safe bowls, sprinkle a mix of gruyere and Parmesan cheeses at the bottom, then ladle the soup over it. Top with toasted bread and additional cheese before broiling.

Broiling for Perfection

Final Touches Under Broiler

Adjust the oven rack to the upper third and preheat broiler to high. Broil the soup bowls for 2-4 minutes until the cheese is melty and bubbly. Garnish with chives and cracked black pepper before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your Easy French Onion Soup with a side salad or fresh baguette for a fully satisfying meal.

Tips for Success

• Patience is key: Allow the onions to caramelize slowly for maximum sweetness.
• Use high-quality broth for the best flavor payoff.
• Adjust seasoning based on personal preference, adding more or less horseradish as desired.

Variations

• For a vegetarian option, substitute beef broth with vegetable broth and skip the Better Than Bouillon.
• Experiment with different cheeses, such as fontina or mozzarella, for varied flavors.

Storage Tips

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 4-5 days. Keep the bread and cheese separate to prevent sogginess. For freezing, portion the soup without toppings and reheat when ready to serve.

Pairing Ideas

Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a side of mixed greens dressed lightly with vinaigrette for a refreshing balance.

FAQs

1. Can I make French Onion Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the broth and caramelize the onions in advance. Store in the fridge and combine when ready to serve.

2. What type of cheese is best for topping?
Gruyere is traditional, but a blend of Gruyere and Parmesan offers a nice flavor. Swiss cheese also works well!

3. How do I keep my onions from turning bitter?
Caramelize the onions at a consistent low heat and avoid rushing the process; high heat can scorch them and cause bitterness.

4. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can caramelize the onions in a pan first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker to simmer.

5. How should I reheat leftover soup?
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warm. You can also microwave in a covered bowl for 1-2 minutes on high.

Creating this Easy French Onion Soup is not just about following a recipe; it’s about growing familiar with the ingredients and processes, making it a rewarding and enjoyable culinary experience. With each spoonful, savor the delicious layers of flavor born from simplicity and patience. This indulgent yet accessible dish is prime for sharing, ensuring both nourishment and delightful memories in your kitchen.

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