Skip to content
Home » French Onion Soup

French Onion Soup





Savory French Onion Soup

Description of the Recipe

Warm up with our French Onion Soup recipe! Caramelized onions, rich broth, and melted Gruyère cheese. Perfect for a cozy meal. French Onion Soup is a timeless dish that boasts a rich, deep flavor derived from caramelized onions, beef broth, and a splash of wine. Topped with a crusty baguette slice and melted Gruyère cheese, this soup is a perfect balance of sweet and savory. It’s the ultimate comfort food, ideal for warming up on a chilly evening or impressing guests at a dinner party.

Ingredients – French Onion Soup

For the Soup:

  • 6 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 8 cups beef broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme

For the Topping:

  • 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making French Onion Soup

1. Caramelize the Onions

  1. Heat the Butter and Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the Onions: Add the sliced onions, ensuring they are spread evenly in the pot.
  3. Cook Slowly: Sprinkle the onions with sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes. The onions should turn a deep golden brown and become caramelized. Be patient—this step is crucial for developing the soup’s rich flavor.

2. Prepare the Broth

  1. Add the Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
  2. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Let the wine simmer until it reduces by half, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the Broth: Stir in the beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme sprigs. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

3. Prepare the Toppings

  1. Toast the Baguette Slices: While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until they are golden and crispy, about 10 minutes.
  2. Grate the Cheese: Grate the Gruyère cheese and set it aside.

4. Assemble and Serve

  1. Preheat the Broiler: Once the soup is ready, preheat your broiler.
  2. Ladle the Soup: Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, leaving some space at the top.
  3. Add the Toppings: Place a toasted baguette slice on top of each bowl of soup. Generously sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese over the bread.
  4. Broil: Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
  5. Serve Immediately: Carefully remove the bowls from the oven and serve the French Onion Soup immediately, garnished with extra thyme if desired.

Tips and Variations for French Onion Soup

Use a Mix of Onions

For a more complex flavor, use a combination of yellow, white, and red onions. Each type of onion brings a unique taste and texture to the soup.

Add Garlic

For an extra layer of flavor, add a couple of minced garlic cloves to the onions during the caramelization process.

Switch Up the Cheese

While Gruyère is traditional, you can also use Swiss cheese, Comté, or even a sharp Cheddar for a different twist.

Vegetarian Option – French Onion Soup

To make this recipe vegetarian, substitute the beef broth with a rich vegetable broth. Add a splash of soy sauce or miso paste for additional umami flavor.

Wine Alternatives

If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with additional broth or apple cider for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

French Onion Soup can be made ahead of time. Prepare the soup base and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the soup and proceed with the topping and broiling steps.

Serving Suggestions

Serve French Onion Soup with a side salad or a simple roasted vegetable dish to round out the meal. A glass of the same white wine used in the recipe pairs beautifully with the soup.

Preparation and Cooking Time – French Onion Soup

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Nutritional Information

  • Serving Size: 1 portion (based on 6 servings)
  • Calories: 350-400
  • Total Fat: 18-22 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 9-11 grams
  • Cholesterol: 40-50 milligrams
  • Sodium: 900-1000 milligrams
  • Total Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 3-5 grams
  • Sugars: 8-10 grams
  • Protein: 12-15 grams

Historical Tidbits about French Onion Soup

French Onion Soup dates back to Roman times, with various iterations of onion-based broths appearing throughout history. However, the modern version of the soup, with its rich caramelized onions and cheesy topping, is firmly rooted in French cuisine.

The dish gained popularity in France in the 18th century, often served in taverns and markets as a cheap and nourishing meal. Its rise to fame is attributed to the Les Halles market in Paris, where it was served to market workers and became known as a restorative dish.

French Onion Soup’s reputation as a comfort food spread beyond France, becoming a beloved dish in many countries. Its appeal lies in its simple yet rich flavors, making it a staple in both home kitchens and fine dining establishments. The addition of the gratinéed cheese and bread topping in the 19th century elevated the soup to a more sophisticated status, showcasing the elegance of French culinary traditions.

Today, French Onion Soup is celebrated worldwide, often featured on menus in French bistros and restaurants. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its perfect blend of simplicity and decadence, making it a timeless favorite for generations.