vegetables
stewed
everyday
soup
rich
French
all seasons
Hot


Classic French Onion Soup with Gruyère Cheese
Difficulty
medium
Time
1h 45m
Price Category
average
Calories
Very High
French onion soup is a true classic that transforms the simplest ingredients, onions and broth, into an unforgettable culinary experience. The long, slow caramelization gives the soup its deep, sweet flavor, complemented by dry white wine and fresh herbs. Crowned with a golden-brown, crispy baguette slice and melted, bubbly Gruyère cheese, this warming dish is perfect for cold days or as an elegant appetizer. It's a comforting and sophisticated meal that never goes out of style.
ingredients
Steps
Caramelize Onions
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cover and cook for 15 minutes until softened. Then, uncover and continue cooking over low to medium heat, stirring frequently, for about 40-50 minutes, until the onions are deep golden brown and caramelized. Be patient, this step is crucial!
Deglaze and Simmer
Once the onions are caramelized, pour in the dry white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the wine has slightly reduced. Then, add the beef broth, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Prepare and Gratinate
Preheat your oven's broiler. Toast the baguette slices in a pan or toaster until golden brown and crispy. Remove the bay leaf from the soup. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Place 2 slices of toasted baguette on top of the soup in each bowl, then generously sprinkle with grated Gruyère cheese. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Carefully remove and serve immediately.
Extra Tips
► Be patient with caramelizing the onions; this step is crucial for the soup's depth and sweetness, so don't rush it.
► Use high-quality beef broth as it forms the foundation of the soup's flavor.
► You can brush the baguette slices with a little garlic butter before toasting for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition
| Per 100g | Per Serving 350g | |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 22g | 22g |
| Fat | 28g | 28g |
| Carbohydrate | 35g | 35g |
| Fiber | 4g | 4g |
| Sugar | 12g | 12g |